Direwolf Claws

Steps

1. 1Soften your puff pastry according to package instructions. Your dough should be pliable but not sticky. If it feels sticky or too warm, return it to the fridge for 5 to 10 minutes.
2. 2Preheat your oven to 400°F and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicon baking mat.
3. 3In a small bowl, whisk together egg and milk to make the egg wash. Set aside. If making the cinnamon version, stir together all cinnamon filling ingredients in a separate small bowl.
4. 4Lightly flour your workspace. Pull out first sheet of dough--leave the second sheet in the refrigerator until you are ready for it. Unfold the dough and you'll have about a 9x9-inch square. With a lightly floured rolling pin, roll the dough out to about 9x12 inches.
5. 5Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter and a ruler, cut dough into 6 4x4-inch squares (cut a 1-inch piece off the long side and then cut remaining dough down the center the long way and then cut those pieces into thirds).
6. 6Transfer dough squares to prepared baking sheet at least an inch apart. Brush the edges of the squares with egg wash. Add 2 teaspoons of the cinnamon mixture or chopped chocolate to half of each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Fold pastries over and press gently to seal the edges. Cut 4 1/2-inch slits into each pastry on the pressed side to make the individual toes and gently shape them into an arch to make them more claw-like.
7. 7Brush with egg wash and bake for 12 to 15 minutes (baking time may vary with different puff pastry brands). They are done when they are golden brown and puffed up tall.
8. 8Repeat with second sheet of dough.
9. 9Cool for 5 minutes and enjoy--these pastries are best when warm.
10. 10Optional Drizzle
11. 11Cinnamon: Whisk together powdered sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of milk, adding more by the 1/4 teaspoon until glaze reaches a drizzling consistency. Drizzle over cinnamon pastries.
12. 12Chocolate: In a small microwave-safe bowl, microwave chocolate for 30 seconds and stir. Continue to microwave in 15-second increments and stir until chocolate is melted. Use a spoon or plastic bag with the corner snipped off to drizzle chocolate over pastries.