Mirabelle Plum Pies

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4-1/2 cup ice water
• 2 cups mirabelle plums, pitted and quartered
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and granulated sugar.
2. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add ice water to the mixture, one tablespoon at a time, until dough comes together.
4. Divide dough into two equal balls and flatten into disks. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F.
6. Roll out one disk of dough on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out circles large enough to fit your pie pan or muffin tins.
7. Place circles into greased pie pan or muffin tins.
8. In a large bowl, mix together mirabelle plums, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice until thoroughly combined.
9. Divide filling evenly among the crusts.
10. Dot the top of the filling with cubes of unsalted butter.
11. Roll out the second disk of dough and cut into strips to create a lattice pattern on top of the filling.
12. Brush the top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
13. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbling. Allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Verdict: These mirabelle plum pies are bursting with sweet, juicy flavor and a touch of warm spice. The buttery, flaky crust is the perfect complement to the fruit filling. They make a delightful dessert or an indulgent breakfast treat.

Serving suggestions: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Alternatively, enjoy as a breakfast pastry with a cup of hot coffee or tea.