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Christmas in Britain is incomplete without the delicious tradition of mince pies. Making these treats from scratch allows you to enjoy fresh, flavorful pies that capture the spirit of the holiday season. Here’s a simple guide to preparing authentic British Christmas mince pies at home.
Ingredients Needed
- 250g plain flour
- 125g unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2-3 tablespoons cold water
- 200g mincemeat (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
- Optional: icing sugar for dusting
Preparing the Pastry
Start by placing the flour in a large mixing bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add the cold water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead lightly, then wrap in cling film and chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
Assembling the Mince Pies
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Roll out the chilled pastry on a floured surface to about 3mm thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out circles for the pie bases and lids. Line a muffin tin with the pastry circles, pressing gently into each cup. Fill each with a spoonful of mincemeat. Cover with another pastry circle, sealing the edges by pinching or pressing with a fork.
Baking and Serving
Brush the tops of the pies with beaten egg for a shiny finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. For an extra festive touch, dust with icing sugar before serving. Enjoy your homemade British Christmas mince pies with a cup of tea or mulled wine.