Pastry Decorations

Paul Hollywood called Carole's decoration 'neat and playful'—a reminder that thoughtful presentation elevates simple bakes. Creating holly leaves from colored pastry scraps is an economical and charming technique: knead green gel food coloring into reserved dough, roll thin, and cut with small cutters or freehand with a knife. Score vein lines with the back of a knife for realism. For dimension, drape some leaves over a wooden spoon handle while chilling. Bake separately from the pies since thin decorations cook faster—6-8 minutes until just set. Note that green food coloring fades slightly with heat, so use a deeper shade than your target color, or touch up with food coloring after baking. The contrast of traditional Christmas holly against tropical filling creates the playful juxtaposition that made Carole's pies memorable. Fresh cranberries make perfect berries; red fondant balls work if cranberries are unavailable.