Tessa's Classic Mince Pie

Christmas scene

Mince Pies – but not Tessa's

Mince pies are a Christmas classic. But have you tried the most tantalisingly delicious mince pies ever?So, my Christmas present to you is this humble recipe, in hope it will bring you joy and comfort this Christmas (and opportunity to try the most tantalisingly delicious mince pies ever!)

Spicy mincemeat

Ingredients:

1kg/ 2lb of mixed dried fruit

600g/ 1.25lb grated cooking apples

2tsps ground mixed spice

1 pint sweet cider

50g/ 2 ounces of hazelnuts

2 tbsps brandy

Firstly, put dried fruit in a pan with apples and cider and spice.

Then, simmer for 20 minutes, or until it turns pulpy and most of the liquid has evaporated.

Stir in hazelnuts and brandy.

After that, pack into sterilised jars and store in the fridge until required.

Rose crust pastry

2 ounces of icing sugar

6 ounces of margarine

2 ounces of cornflour

8 ounces of plain flour

1 small egg

Firstly, beat together the sugar and margarine.

Then, sift the cornflour and flour into the mixture.

Add the egg to bind the mixture together.

After that, place in the fridge in a greaseproof bag for at least 1 hour.

Then, roll out the pastry until it is thin, and shape into a 12 hole bun tin, After that, add the mince meat to the pastry.

Macaroon topping

2 egg whites

3 ounces of castor sugar

3 ounces of ground almonds

A few drops of almond essence

Firstly, whisk the egg whites together until they form stiff peaks.

Then, fold in the sugar, almonds and almond essence.

Then, place on top of the mince pie.

Optionally, you can sprinkle with some almond flakes.

Finally, bake in the oven for 20 minutes at gas mark 5, or 190 c.

Many thanks,

Tessa Sullivan.