Are you ready to elevate your holiday baking game with a recipe fit for royalty? Look no further than this exclusive mince pie recipe straight from the kitchen of the Queen’s pastry chef. Mince pies have been a staple of festive celebrations for centuries, and this recipe is sure to impress your friends and family with its decadent flavors and flaky pastry. Let’s dive right in and learn how to create these mouthwatering treats for your next gathering.
**The Queen’s Pastry Chef Has Revealed Her Secret Mince Pie Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cold water
– 1 cup high-quality mincemeat
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pastry:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and cold, cubed butter. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. **Add Sweetness:**
– Gradually add the granulated sugar to the flour and butter mixture, stirring well to combine.
3. **Bring It Together:**
– Slowly add the cold water to the pastry mixture, stirring with a fork until a dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
4. **Chill the Dough:**
– Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the pastry to rest and firm up.
5. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
6. **Roll Out the Pastry:**
– On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using a round cutter, cut out 12 circles to fit the muffin tin.
7. **Fill the Pies:**
– Place the pastry circles into the greased muffin tin cups. Spoon a generous amount of high-quality mincemeat into each pastry-lined cup.
8. **Top It Off:**
– Using the remaining pastry dough, cut out 12 slightly smaller circles to act as the pie lids. Brush the edges of the pastry in the tin with the beaten egg, then place the lids on top. Press the edges to seal.
9. **Bake to Perfection:**
– Brush the tops of the mince pies with the remaining beaten egg to create a golden finish. Using a sharp knife, make a small slit in the center of each pie to allow steam to escape during baking.
10. **Final Touch:**
– Bake the mince pies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
11. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Once baked, remove the mince pies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a festive touch. These delicious mince pies are best enjoyed warm with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Indulge in the regal flavors of these homemade mince pies, and watch as your guests marvel at your baking skills. The rich, spiced mincemeat encased in buttery, flaky pastry is a true delight for the taste buds. This holiday season, treat yourself and your loved ones to a taste of royal tradition with these exquisite mince pies. Happy baking!
