Desserts > Holiday & Seasonal Desserts > Christmas Desserts Recipes > Mince Pies Recipe

Traditional Mince Pies

This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to create delicious, traditional mince pies, perfect for Christmas. Enjoy the warm, spiced flavors of dried fruits and spices encased in a buttery, homemade pastry.

Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
20-25 minutes
Servings
12 pies
Ingredients
  • 225 g Plain Flour
  • 110 g Cold Butter (cubed)
  • 35 g Lard (cubed)
  • 1 tbsp Icing Sugar
  • 3-4 tbsp Cold Water
  • 400 g Mincemeat
  • 1 Egg (beaten)
  • 1 tbsp Icing Sugar (for dusting)

Making the Pastry

First, make the pastry. In a large bowl, rub the butter and lard into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the icing sugar. Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.

Chilling the Dough

Wrap the dough in cling film and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling process is crucial for a tender and flaky crust. Ensure the dough is well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out.

Preparing the Mince Pies

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/Gas Mark 6). Lightly grease a 12-hole muffin tin. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry thinly. Use a round cutter to cut out circles slightly larger than the muffin tin holes.

Filling the Pies

Gently press the pastry circles into the muffin tin holes. Spoon a generous amount of mincemeat into each pie. Ensure the mincemeat is evenly distributed to avoid any soggy bottoms.

Making the Lids

Roll out the remaining pastry and cut out smaller circles for the lids. Brush the edges of the pastry bases with beaten egg. Place the lids on top and gently press the edges to seal. Cut a small slit in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape.

Baking the Mince Pies

Brush the tops of the pies with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Rotate the tin halfway through baking for even cooking.

Cooling and Serving

Remove the mince pies from the oven and let them cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with icing sugar before serving. These pies are best served warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: Approximately 350 kcal, Fat: 18g, Saturated Fat: 10g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Sugar: 30g, Protein: 4g. Please note that these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

Mince pies are high in sugar and fat. Consume in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Consider using whole wheat flour for the pastry for added fiber. Check mincemeat labels for allergen information and adjust ingredients as needed for dietary restrictions.

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FAQ

  • Can I use ready-made pastry?

    Yes, you can use ready-made shortcrust pastry to save time. Make sure to buy a good quality pastry for the best results.
  • Can I freeze mince pies?

    Yes, you can freeze baked mince pies. Allow them to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Defrost thoroughly before serving.
  • What can I use instead of lard?

    If you prefer not to use lard, you can substitute it with more butter. This may result in a slightly less flaky pastry, but it will still be delicious.