Pear, Clementine and Cranberry Mince Pies

Nothing says "Christmas" more than "Mince Pies" Oh, AND tinsel, lights, tree, Christmas crackers, novelty jumpers, glitter and baubles (all very important during the holiday).

I don't love mince pies (I apologise to all mince pie lovers out there!) and these are perfect substitutes. They taste like Christmas and they look it too.

I make this recipe and leave it to cool completely before filling either homemade or shop bought pastry cases on the day of serving.

Directions

1. Tip the cranberries or mixed berries, maple syrup, cornflour (+ water) and clementine juice in a large pan. Stir well and heat until all the cranberries have “popped”
2. Add the cinnamon, ginger and salt. Cook on low until the mixture has thickened
3. Add the pears and cook for a further 1-2 minutes. Let cool completely
4. Store in a container with a tight fitting lid and keep in the fridge until needed
5. TO SERVE – Add 1-2 tablespoons of the mix to individual pastry cases, and bake the pies for 15-20 minutes at gas mark 5
6. Sprinkle with sugar once out of the oven. Let cool before serving.

**You can use homemade pastry or buy a block and add a star on top of the pie**