Easy Florentine Mince Pies: A Festive Treat for All
Indulge in the sweet and comforting flavors of Christmas with these delectable Easy Florentine Mince Pies. These bite-sized treats are a festive staple, combining the classic taste of mincemeat with a crunchy Florentine base. Perfect for cozy gatherings with friends and family, these pies are a must-try this holiday season.
Ingredients:
For the Florentine Base:
* 1 cup (125g) plain flour
* 1/2 cup (100g) butter, softened
* 1/2 cup (100g) caster sugar
* 1/4 cup (25g) ground almonds
* 1 tablespoon (15ml) milk
For the Mincemeat Filling:
* 1 jar (400g) mincemeat
* 1/4 cup (50ml) brandy (optional)
Instructions:
For the Florentine Base:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the flour, ground almonds, and milk gradually, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 3mm.
6. Cut out 12 rounds of dough using a 7cm cutter.
7. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
For the Mincemeat Filling:
1. Place the mincemeat in a bowl and add the brandy (if using).
2. Mix well to combine.
To Assemble the Pies:
1. Place the Florentine bases on a serving platter.
2. Spoon a generous amount of mincemeat filling onto each base.
3. Top with a second Florentine base to form a sandwich.
4. Sprinkle with icing sugar, if desired.
Tips:
* For a boozy treat, soak the raisins in brandy overnight before adding to the mincemeat.
* If you don't have brandy, you can use orange juice or apple juice as a substitute.
* For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour in the Florentine base.
* These mince pies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Conclusion:
Easy Florentine Mince Pies are a delicious and festive treat that is sure to bring joy to your holiday celebrations. With a crunchy Florentine base and a flavorful mincemeat filling, these miniature pies are perfect for sharing with loved ones. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try today!