Instructions: Add a touch of extra flavour to the mincemeat by mixing in the brandy and orange peel. Leave to sit while you make the basic mixture. Sieve the flour, mixed spice and salt into a bowl and then add the soft brown sugar.

Next, in with the mincemeat and butter slightly softened, either in a microwave or by beating. Mix lightly and add the lightly beaten egg and milk, mixing as little as possible otherwise the muffins will become hard on top.

When the mixture is soft enough to drop off the edge of a spoon, then transfer to lined cases inside the muffin tin.

Sprinkle the top of the muffins with chopped nuts and demerara sugar, then bake in the oven at gas mark 5/190C/375F for 15 minutes. When cooked, dust with icing sugar and cinnamon mixed together.

NOTES : Makes 12 Large or 24 small muffins

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