Chef shares how to make the 'perfect batch' of mince pies every time with a 'unique twist'

Head Chef John Scales at Audley Villages revealed three simple steps to make a delicious mince pie. "Add a unique twist by infusing your mincemeat with a splash of brandy or orange liqueur," recommended Chef John. "To take your mince pies to the next level, consider adding dried cranberries or a hint of cinnamon - just to make it that extra bit luxurious.

" The key to "flaky, buttery pastry" is keeping the pastry cold. Chef John recommends chilling your dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. "For an extra-flaky crust, try a quick blast in the freezer for 10 minutes before baking .



" He added: "A useful thing I do every Christmas is cutting my butter into small cubes and making sure they are cold before incorporating it into the flour. "Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface, and don't overwork it, as this can toughen the pastry." Presentation is another factor that can elevate a simple mince pie, with Chef John suggesting more than an egg wash.

"Try a dusting of icing sugar, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate, or even a slide or orange peel," he beamed. "You can also use a pastry brush to glaze the edges of the pastry with a simple syrup made with sugar and water." Classic mince pie recipe 225g cold butter, diced 350g plain flour 100g golden caster sugar 280g mincemeat One small egg, beaten Icing sugar, to dust To make the pastry, rub the butter into the flour, then mix in the golden caster sugar and a pinch of salt.

Combine the pastry into a ball and knead it briefly. Heat the oven to 200C (180C fan/gas six). Line 18 holes of two 12-hole patty tins by pressing small balls of pastry into each hole.

Spoon the mincemeat into the pies. Make round lids out of the leftover pastry, big enough to cover the pies. Top the pies with the lids, pressing the edges gently together to seal.

Brush the tops of the pies with the beaten egg. Bake for 20 minutes until golden. Let them cool in the tin for five minutes, then remove to a wire rack.

To serve, lightly dust with icing sugar..