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choc pear mince pies

Makes 24 Takes 1 hr 15 mins + cooling

FOR THE CHOCOLATE PASTRY

660ml cake flour
60ml cocoa powder pinch salt
125ml brown sugar
300g cold butter, chopped
2 eggs
15ml vanilla essence

FOR THE FRUIT MINCE

2 pears, peeled and grated
160ml sultanas
125ml slivered almonds
80ml golden syrup
125ml brown sugar
80ml brandy
5ml mixed spice zest of 1 orange
80g dark chocolate, chopped
1 egg, lightly beaten edible gold dust, for brushing (optional)

1 For the pastry, sift together the