Fruit Mince Pies

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Fruit Mince Pies are a traditional holiday treat that combines buttery, flaky pastry with a rich, spiced fruit filling. The filling is made from a blend of dried fruits, citrus zest, and warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating a sweet and tangy mixture that’s perfect for the festive season. These individual pies are a holiday favorite, often enjoyed as a dessert or a snack, and are a wonderful addition to any Christmas gathering. Best served warm, dusted with powdered sugar, these little pies bring comfort and nostalgia to every bite.

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cold butter, cubed
  • â…“ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2-3 tbsp cold water

For the Fruit Mince Filling:

  • 1 ½ cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas, chopped dried apricots)
  • 1 apple, peeled and grated
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp ground cloves
  • Zest and juice of 1 orange
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp brandy (optional)
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted

For Garnish:

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the fruit mince filling: In a large bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits, grated apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, orange zest and juice, lemon zest and juice, brandy (if using), and melted butter. Stir well and let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
  2. Make the pastry: In a food processor, pulse together the flour, cold butter, and powdered sugar until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the egg yolk and pulse again. Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.
  4. Roll out the pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough to about â…› inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut out circles of dough large enough to fit the muffin tin cavities. Press the dough rounds into the tin to form the base of each pie. Reserve some of the dough for the pie tops, cutting them into stars or rounds.
  5. Fill the pies: Spoon the prepared fruit mince filling into each pastry case, being careful not to overfill. Top each pie with a pastry star or round, gently pressing the edges to seal.
  6. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let the pies cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
  7. Serve: Dust the pies with powdered sugar before serving, and enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy these festive and flavorful Fruit Mince Pies as a delightful holiday treat that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends!