Photo by Julie O’Malley
Vanilla Shortcrust Pastry for Mince Pies
Pastry for approx 18 pies,
1 2/3 cups (250g) plain flour
1 Tbsp caster sugar
1/4 tsp baking powder
180g cold unsalted butter, chopped
1/3 cup (80ml) iced water
1 tsp vanilla extract
Place flour, sugar and baking powder in a food processor and pulse to combine. Add butter and pulse until just combined. With the motor running, gradually add the water and vanilla and process until the mixture comes together to form a smooth dough. Wrap in plastic wrap and place in the fridge for 30 mins before using.
Roll pastry and cut out circles suitable for the size pan you are using. Spoon in some of the filling. Re-roll the pastry and cut out star shapes and place on top of the filling. Brush stars with lightly beaten egg while and sprinkle with caster sugar. Place in preheated 180c oven and cook until golden. Allow to cool in pan then remove to rack and sprinkle with icing sugar.