Prepare the Pastry:

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Gradually add the ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.

Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

3. Prepare the Plum Filling:

In a bowl, combine the sliced plums, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Toss gently to coat the plums evenly.

4. Assemble the Mini Plum Tarts:

Roll out the chilled pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.

Cut out circles using a pastry cutter or a glass that is slightly larger than your mini tart tins.

Carefully press the pastry circles into the greased tart tins, making sure to gently press them against the sides.

Spoon the plum filling into each tart shell.

Arrange pieces of plum on the top and spoon over a little plum filling

5. Bake:

Brush the exposed pastry edges with beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar for a golden finish.

Place the tart tins on the prepared baking tray and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the plum filling is bubbling.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Allow the mini plum tarts to cool slightly before removing them from the tins. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Enjoy!

These sweet mini plum tarts are a delightful combination of flaky pastry and sweet, juicy plums. They make for a wonderful dessert to share with friends and family or to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy the rich flavours and the joy of homemade baking!