Mince pies are a classic holiday treat that exude warmth, nostalgia, and festive cheer. These buttery, flaky pastry shells filled with sweet, spiced mincemeat are a staple on Christmas tables around the world. Whether you enjoy them warm with a dollop of cream or as a snack alongside a hot cup of tea, mince pies are a holiday tradition worth savoring.
How to Make Mince Pies
Making mince pies is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. With a homemade pastry and rich mincemeat filling, these pies are sure to impress your family and friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pastry: Mix flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Add cold butter and rub it in until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add water gradually to form a dough. Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a muffin tin.
- Roll Out the Dough: Roll the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles for the base and slightly smaller circles or stars for the tops.
- Assemble the Pies: Line each muffin tin cavity with a pastry base, spoon in mincemeat filling, and cover with a pastry lid or star. Press edges gently to seal.
- Brush and Bake: Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the mince pies cool slightly before removing them from the tin. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Mince Pies
12
servings20
minutes25
minutesIngredients
- For the Pastry:
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
2 tbsp granulated sugar
3–4 tbsp cold water
Pinch of salt- For the Filling:
1 1/4 cups mincemeat (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional Toppings:
1 beaten egg (for brushing)
Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Combine flour, sugar, and salt. Rub in butter until crumbly, then mix in cold water to form dough. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a muffin tin.
- Roll dough and cut into circles for bases and lids. Line each muffin cavity with a pastry base.
- Spoon mincemeat into each base and cover with pastry lids. Seal edges gently.
- Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden.
- Allow to cool before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.
FAQ
Q: What is mincemeat made of?
A: Traditional mincemeat is a mixture of dried fruits, spices, sugar, and often a splash of brandy or rum. Modern versions are usually meat-free.
Q: Can I freeze mince pies?
A: Yes! You can freeze baked mince pies for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to enjoy them warm.
Q: Can I use store-bought pastry?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought shortcrust pastry is a great time-saving alternative.
Q: Are mince pies gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free flour and ensure the mincemeat filling is gluten-free for a celiac-friendly version.
