Hot Pocket and Fried Pie Dough

Step 1

In a mixing bowl, sift the flour, sugar, salt and baking powder, together.

Step 2

Cut in shortening.

Step 3

Pour the milk into the flour mixture all at once.

Step 4

Mix quickly and add additional milk if needed to combine all dry spots or flour if it is to sticky.

Step 5

Lightly knead it to make a thick dough.

Step 6

Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.

Step 7

Cut the dough into 12 equal portions.

Step 8

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough pieces into 5 or 6 inch circles.

Step 9

Put two or three tablespoons of filling of your choice in the center of each round, moisten edges with milk to ensure seal.

Step 10

Fold over and crimp the edges with a fork.

Step 11

Fry a few at a time without crowding, in the hot oil, until golden brown.

Step 12

Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Step 13

Notes: Although this dough can be used to make homemade"hot pockets" the filling should be completely done before enclosing it in the dough.

Step 14

The dough will cook too fast to get the insides done.

Step 15

I find it best to place paper towels on a wire rack so the pies remain light and crisp and don't get soggy from the steam.

Step 16

If you are using the dough for fried pies, it will use one 21 ounce can @ approximately two tablespoons per pie.

Step 17

Pies should be sprinkled as soon as they are removed from oil so the sugar will stick.

Step 18

(Sugar and cinnamon mix is great on apple pies.).