Recipes

There are times when you really need to have a quick and easy recipe - and this falls into that category.

I use this recipe at Christmas, especially if I have unexpected visitors.

I always have three ready-made pie crusts in the larder - bought from the nearest supermarket!  I also have a jar of mincemeat in the larder - shop bought mincemeat works just fine.

The almond topping recipe is:

4 oz caster sugar
4 oz icing sugar
8 oz ground almonds
3 eggs
Approximately 1/2 pt of milk
1 teaspoon almond extract.

Heat oven to approximately 150-160C.

Spread a layer of mincemeat on each of the three pastry cases.  Not too thick; a nice even covering is sufficient.

Mix the almond topping by putting all ingredients into a bowl and mix till the mixture is all incorporated and you have a consistency something like thick double cream.  

Divide the almond topping equally between the three pastry cases - make sure you cover the mincemeat with the almond topping.

Put into the oven and cook until the almond topping is golden brown and has risen slightly.  Take out of the oven and allow to cool.  I usually decorate the top by covering with glace icing, (ie icing sugar mixed up with boiling water.  Just remember to use small amounts of the water, just adding a few drops at a time until you get a very thick mixture.)  Cover the top of each bakewell and decorate with glace cherries.  If you're mathematically minded, you can get 6-8 portions out of each bakewell.

These will keep well for several days, so are great for drop-in visitors!