### How to Make Delicious Chocolate Glazed Petits Fours
#### Introduction: A Sweet Temptation
Petits fours are small, exquisite pastries that make a perfect dessert or appetizer at any event. Adding a rich chocolate glaze enhances their appeal and transforms them into an irresistible treat. Follow this step-by-step guide to create beautifully glazed petits fours for your next gathering.
- 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- Cocoa powder for dusting
#### Equipment:
- Pastry bag and tips
- Small round cookie cutter (about 1.5 inches in diameter)
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowl
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### Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chocolate Glazed Petits Fours
#### Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a medium-sized mixing bowl, sift together flour and salt.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** Add softened butter and granulated sugar to another bowl. Cream them together until light and fluffy using an electric mixer or by hand.
3. **Add Egg White and Mix:** Beat in the egg white, mixing well.
4. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture while continuously mixing.
#### Step 2: Shape and Roll Out the Dough
1. **Divide and Roll:** Divide the dough into small portions (about tablespoon-sized).
2. **Shape with Cookie Cutter:** Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles from each portion of dough.
3. **Roll and Dust:** Gently roll the dough circles with confectioners' sugar to prevent sticking.
#### Step 3: Bake the Petits Fours
1. **Line Baking Sheets:** Place parchment paper on baking sheets for easy cleanup.
2. **Arrange Patisserie:** Carefully place the cut-out dough circles onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly apart.
3. **Bake:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
#### Step 4: Prepare Chocolate Glaze
1. **Melt Chocolate:** Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until completely melted.
2. **Mix with Butter (Optional):** For a smoother texture, you can melt a small amount of unsalted butter and mix it into the melted chocolate.
#### Step 5: Glaze the Petits Fours
1. **Cool Patisserie:** Allow the petits fours to cool on wire racks until they are just warm enough to handle.
2. **Pipe Glaze:** Use a pastry bag with small tips to pipe the chocolate glaze over each petit four. You can create different designs like swirls or dots.
3. **Set and Dust:** Let the glaze set, then lightly dust with cocoa powder for an extra touch of elegance.
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### Tips for Perfect Petits Fours
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to get the best results.
- Be precise when mixing the dough; overmixing can make it tough.
- Use a piping bag and small tips for intricate designs on your glaze.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container if not serving immediately.
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#### Conclusion
Crafting chocolate glazed petits fours is not only a delightful baking experience but also a wonderful way to impress guests at any gathering. By following these steps, you'll be able to create exquisite, delectable petit fours that are sure to become a favorite among your friends and family. Enjoy the process of making something beautiful and delicious!