Mince Pies

Steps

1. 1
   Step 1:

   Rub the cold, diced butter into the plain flour.

2. 2
   Step 2:

   Mix in the golden caster sugar and a pinch of salt.

3. 3
   Step 3:

   Combine the pastry into a ball without adding liquid.

4. 4
   Step 4:

   Knead the dough briefly; it should be fairly firm, like shortbread dough.

5. 5
   Step 5:

   Use the dough immediately, or chill it for later.

6. 6
   Step 6:

   Preheat the oven to 200C/gas 6/fan 180C.

7. 7
   Step 7:

   Line 18 holes of two 12-hole patty tins by pressing small walnut-sized balls of pastry into each hole.

8. 8
   Step 8:

   Spoon the mincemeat into the pies.

9. 9
   Step 9:

   Pat slightly smaller balls of pastry between your hands to make round lids large enough to cover the pies.

10. 10
    Step 10:

    Top the pies with the lids and press the edges gently together to seal; do not seal them with milk or egg.

11. 11
    Step 11:

    Freeze the pies for up to 1 month, if desired.

12. 12
    Step 12:

    Brush the tops of the pies with the beaten egg.

13. 13
    Step 13:

    Bake for 20 minutes until golden.

    20 min
14. 14
    Step 14:

    Leave the pies to cool in the tins for 5 minutes, then remove them to a wire rack.

    5 min
15. 15
    Step 15:

    Lightly dust with icing sugar to serve.