Classic Mince Pies with Brandy

Name: Classic Mince Pies with Brandy
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 pies
Ingredients: 250g all-purpose flour; 125g unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 75g icing sugar; 1 large egg yolk; Cold water as needed; 300g mixed dried fruits (raisins, sultanas, currants); 100g chopped apples; 50g candied peel, finely chopped; 100g brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 tsp allspice; 50ml brandy; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Juice and zest of 1 orange

Highlighted under: SugarAlchemy Kitchen

Indulge in the festive delight of Classic Mince Pies with Brandy, a perfect blend of rich flavors and traditional recipes.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-12T18:06:16.230Z

These Classic Mince Pies with Brandy are a cherished holiday tradition, filled with a rich mixture of dried fruits, spices, and a hint of brandy. Perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings by the fire, these pies bring warmth and joy to any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful combination of sweet and spiced fruit filling
Perfectly flaky pastry that complements the rich filling
A touch of brandy adds a festive twist to a classic treat

      

The Tradition of Mince Pies

Mince pies have a rich history that dates back to the 13th century, originally made by the Crusaders who brought back spices and dried fruits from the Middle East. Over time, these savory pies transformed into the sweet treats we cherish today. Traditionally served during the Christmas season, they symbolize good fortune and are a beloved holiday staple in many cultures. Preparing mince pies at home allows you to connect with this festive tradition while adding your unique touch to each batch.

The classic combination of spices and fruits creates a delightful explosion of flavors that evokes the spirit of the holidays. Each bite is a reminder of family gatherings and joyful celebrations, making them more than just a dessert. By incorporating brandy into the filling, you elevate the flavor profile, adding warmth and richness that resonates with the festive atmosphere. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet ending to a holiday meal, mince pies are sure to bring joy and nostalgia.

Perfecting the Pastry

A flaky, buttery pastry is essential for crafting the perfect mince pie. The balance between the rich filling and the delicate crust is what makes this dessert truly special. Using chilled butter and handling the dough minimally ensures that your pastry remains tender and light. It's important to let the dough rest in the refrigerator; this not only makes it easier to roll out but also enhances the texture, resulting in a wonderfully flaky crust when baked.

When rolling out the pastry, aim for an even thickness to avoid uneven baking. A light dusting of flour on your work surface will help prevent sticking. Remember, practice makes perfect! Even if your first batch isn’t flawless, the flavors will still shine through. The satisfaction of creating your own pastry from scratch adds to the joy of making mince pies, making the effort more than worthwhile.

Serving Suggestions

Mince pies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any occasion. For a delightful twist, serve them with a dollop of brandy cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy textures complement the spiced filling beautifully, enhancing the overall experience. For those who prefer a lighter option, a simple dusting of icing sugar can add a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.

To make your mince pies the centerpiece of your holiday dessert table, consider garnishing them with festive decorations. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a few candied fruits on top can add visual appeal. Sharing these treats with friends and family during the holiday season creates lasting memories, so make sure to bake a generous batch to enjoy and share!

Ingredients

For the Pastry

250g all-purpose flour
125g unsalted butter, chilled and diced
75g icing sugar
1 large egg yolk
Cold water as needed

For the Filling

300g mixed dried fruits (raisins, sultanas, currants)
100g chopped apples
50g candied peel, finely chopped
100g brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp allspice
50ml brandy
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Juice and zest of 1 orange

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Instructions

Make the Pastry

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and icing sugar. Add the chilled butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and enough cold water to form a dough. Chill for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a saucepan, combine the dried fruits, chopped apples, candied peel, brown sugar, spices, brandy, and lemon and orange juice and zest. Cook over low heat until the mixture is softened and fragrant. Let it cool.

Assemble the Pies

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and cut out circles to line a muffin tin. Fill each pastry case with the cooled fruit mixture.

Top with pastry lids, sealing the edges with a fork, and make a small slit for steam to escape.

Bake the Pies

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool before serving.

Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with icing sugar.

Storage Tips

Mince pies can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment, making them ideal for busy holiday schedules. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, they can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their flaky texture.

If you have leftover filling, it can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for future use. This allows you to whip up a fresh batch of pies whenever the craving strikes. Just remember to adjust the pastry recipe accordingly based on the amount of filling you have. With these storage tips, you can savor the flavors of the holiday season long after the festivities have ended.

Variations to Try

While traditional mince pies are delightful, experimenting with variations can add a fun twist to this classic treat. Consider incorporating different fruits such as cranberries or pears for a unique flavor profile. Additionally, swapping out the brandy for other spirits like whiskey or rum can create distinct versions that cater to different tastes. For a more modern approach, try adding dark chocolate or a hint of orange liqueur to the filling for an indulgent treat that will impress your guests.

Vegetarian and vegan adaptations are also possible. Replace butter with plant-based alternatives and use a flaxseed egg or unsweetened applesauce instead of the egg yolk in the pastry. These variations ensure everyone can enjoy the festive spirit of mince pies, regardless of dietary preferences. Get creative in the kitchen and make these pies your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the filling can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for brandy?

You can use apple juice or non-alcoholic apple cider for a similar flavor.

→ Can I freeze mince pies?

Yes, they freeze well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly and they can be stored for up to 3 months.

→ How long do they last?

Stored in an airtight container, they can last for about a week.