Fruit plait

Method

• step 1

  Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured work surface into a large rectangle. Transfer to a lightly greased baking tray.

• step 2

  Put the sultanas in a small mixing bowl with just enough warm water to cover them, and soak for 10 mins.

• step 3

  Core the apples and pears and slice them into even-sized pieces – you don’t need to peel them. Put the pieces in a bowl and add the honey and 2 tbsp apricot jam. Drain the soaked sultanas and add them to the mixture. Stir well and add the mixed spice and cinnamon to taste.

• step 4

  Spoon the mixture in a thick strip down the centre of the puff pastry. Use a sharp knife to make roughly 8 diagonal cuts down each side of the pastry like a lattice. Fold the pastry strips alternately across the filling like a plait.

• step 5

  Crack the egg into a bowl, whisk with a fork and, using a pastry brush, glaze the top of the puff pastry.

• step 6

  Place the plait in the oven and bake for 25-30 mins or until the apples are soft and the pastry is golden brown. Serve with crème fraîche or vanilla ice cream.