Frangipane Mince Pies

‘Tis the season to be jolly – Christmas is incoming on all sides. Having had a mini mince pie freebie the other day, Mrs S decided this weekend that the thing she really, really wanted more than anything else in the world was a mince pie. There’s an M&S mini food store 10 minutes’ walk away but I suggested that I could provide her requirements in-house. I’d seen a recipe in Pastry (by Richard Bertinet) that looked quite grown-up and different, given that the topping was frangipane rather than open or pastry, as traditionally seen. I thought the time was right to see if I could make a pastry-based Christmas goodie.

Meringue Kisses

Or, more accurately, meringue Sorting Hats. When I made some chocolate buns recently, I had 6 egg whites left over. I asked for the help of my eldest daughter, Sophie, in making them as I’ve never piped anything before. Whereas if it involves a creative bent, Sophie is probably the most accomplished craft practitioner I know. She’s one of those people who look at something and go ‘I can make that’ – and then does. And presentation is a big part of her creations. I have no idea where it comes from – certainly not me. Mrs S blames the milkman! Sophie lent me a book she has by the Meringue Girls, who have elevated simple meringues to something of an art form.

Madeleines

Ah… Dead easy to make, utterly delicious, and quick. I’ve been meaning to make these for ages but only this week did I get round to it. I don’t think I’ve made anything that disappeared so quickly.