The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by baking a batch of delicious mince pies? These delectable treats are a classic must-have during this time of year, and they are perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa by a roaring fire.
**Perfect Mince Pies**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg yolk
– 1-2 tablespoons cold water
– 1 cup mincemeat
– Icing sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pastry:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and chilled butter. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
– Stir in the granulated sugar.
– Add the egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of cold water. Mix until a dough forms, adding more water if needed.
– Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-hole muffin tin.
3. **Roll out the Pastry:**
– On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness.
– Using a round cookie cutter slightly larger than the muffin tin holes, cut out 12 circles for the pie bases.
– Press the pastry circles gently into the muffin tin.
4. **Fill the Pies:**
– Spoon a heaped teaspoon of mincemeat into each pastry case.
5. **Decorate the Pies:**
– Roll out the remaining pastry and cut out 12 smaller circles for the pie lids. You can also cut out shapes like stars or hearts for decoration.
– Place the pastry lids on top of the mincemeat-filled pies and press the edges to seal.
– If using decorative shapes, place them on top and press lightly.
6. **Bake the Pies:**
– Bake the pies in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
7. **Finish and Serve:**
– Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the mince pies cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
– Once cooled, dust the mince pies with icing sugar for a beautiful finish.
– Serve the mince pies warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
These perfect mince pies are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings or even as a special treat for yourself. Their buttery pastry and sweet mincemeat filling create a delightful combination that is sure to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. So, grab your apron and get baking – your home will soon be filled with the inviting aroma of freshly baked mince pies. Gather your loved ones, pour some mulled wine, and savor each bite of these classic holiday treats. Happy baking and happy holidays!
