Festive cooking: mince pie recipe (with vegan substitutes)

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that’s both delicious and compassionate? We're here to guide you through creating your very own vegan mince pies. With just a handful of ingredients and a sprinkle of festive spirit, you can craft these delectable treats in the comfort of your kitchen. Pop on your apron, head into the kitchen and let’s get baking!

• 350g plain flour (plus extra for decoration)
• 175g cold butter - or vegan alternative - cut into small cubes (plus extra for greasing)
• A little cold water
• 250g mincemeat - vegan versions are readily available
• A little milk - or vegan alternative
• 3 tablespoons icing sugar
   

1. Preparation: Grease two cupcake trays and preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan, gas mark 7, 425°F).
2. Make pastry: In a bowl, sieve the flour and combine it with the cold butter cubes. Rub the mixture between your fingers until it resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Bind with water: Add a tablespoon of cold water to the mix and stir thoroughly. Repeat this process, adding one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture begins to come together. Use your hands to form the pastry into a ball once it starts to hold shape.
4. Rolling: Sprinkle some flour onto your work surface. Place the pastry on top and roll it out as thin as possible. If you have excess dough, divide it into two balls and work on one at a time.
5. Shape and fill: Cut out circles from your dough using a cutter and gently place them into the greased cupcake tray holes. Add a spoonful of mincemeat to the center of each circle.
6. Add toppings: Cut out 24 stars from the remaining dough using a cutter or freehand if you’re feeling adventurous. Place each star centrally on top of the mincemeat. Press down slightly to ensure the star sticks, then brush a little milk over the pies for a warm golden hue.
7. Bake: Pop your mince pies into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mincemeat is bubbling and the pastry is golden on top.
8. Finishing: Once baked, transfer the pies to a wire rack to cool. Exercise caution to avoid burns! Before serving, sprinkle them with a dusting of icing sugar for that perfect festive look.