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 servings
Ingredients: 250g plain flour; 125g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 75g icing sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 2-3 tbsp cold water; 200g mixed dried fruits (currants, raisins, sultanas); 50g chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds); 50g mincemeat; 50ml brandy; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tbsp orange zest; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Icing sugar, for dusting

Highlighted under: Holiday Meal Recipes

Delight in the festive flavors of these Classic Mince Pies with Brandy, perfect for holiday gatherings and cozy nights.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-12T19:28:50.876Z

These Classic Mince Pies with Brandy are a cherished recipe handed down through generations. With a rich, spiced filling and buttery pastry, they embody the essence of the holiday season.

        Why You'll Love These Mince Pies
        Rich and aromatic filling infused with brandy
Buttery, flaky crust that complements the sweetness
Perfectly sized for sharing during festive gatherings

      

The Tradition of Mince Pies

Mince pies have a rich history that dates back to the 13th century when they were first made by the Crusaders. Originally, these pies were filled with a mixture of meats, fruits, and spices, symbolizing the gifts of the Magi. Over time, the recipe evolved, and the savory meats were replaced with sweet fruits and spices, making them a beloved holiday treat. Today, mince pies are synonymous with Christmas, often enjoyed during festive gatherings and celebrations.

Traditionally, mince pies were prepared on Christmas Eve and eaten throughout the Twelve Days of Christmas. This custom signifies goodwill and a blessing for the New Year. Sharing mince pies with friends and family is a cherished tradition in many households, as they bring warmth and joy during the cold winter months.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients plays a crucial role in making the perfect mince pies. Opt for a mix of dried fruits that you enjoy; currants, raisins, and sultanas create a delightful sweetness and texture. Don't forget to add a splash of brandy to elevate the flavor profile, giving your pies a warm, aromatic richness that complements the spices beautifully.

For the pastry, using chilled unsalted butter is key to achieving that flaky, tender crust. Incorporating icing sugar not only sweetens the dough but also contributes to its lightness. Remember, the right balance of ingredients will enhance the overall taste and experience of your mince pies, ensuring they are a hit during the holidays.

Serving and Storing Mince Pies

Mince pies are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven, but they can also be served at room temperature. Dusting them with icing sugar just before serving adds a touch of elegance and sweetness. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that will impress your guests.

If you have leftover mince pies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; simply thaw and reheat them in the oven before serving. This makes them a convenient option for unexpected guests or festive gatherings throughout the season.

Ingredients

For the Pastry

250g plain flour
125g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
75g icing sugar
1 large egg yolk
2-3 tbsp cold water

For the Filling

200g mixed dried fruits (currants, raisins, sultanas)
50g chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)
50g mincemeat
50ml brandy
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tbsp orange zest
1 tbsp lemon juice

For Assembly

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Icing sugar, for dusting

Instructions

Prepare the Pastry

In a large bowl, mix 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 add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.

Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the dried fruits, nuts, mincemeat, brandy, cinnamon, nutmeg, orange zest, and lemon juice. Mix well and let it sit for 15 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Assemble the Pies

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and cut out circles to line a muffin tin. Fill each pastry case with the mincemeat mixture.

Cut out smaller circles for the tops and place them over the filling, sealing the edges. Brush with beaten egg.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before dusting with icing sugar.

Tips for Perfect Pastry

Making the perfect pastry can be daunting, but with a few tips, you can achieve great results. Always ensure your butter is cold; this helps create a flaky texture. When mixing the ingredients, avoid overworking the dough, as this can lead to a tough crust. If the dough feels too crumbly, add a little more cold water until it holds together.

Chill your pastry again after rolling it out to prevent shrinking during baking. This extra step ensures that your mince pies maintain their shape and have a beautiful, golden crust.

Creative Variations

While the classic recipe is delightful, feel free to experiment with different flavors and fillings. Consider adding a splash of your favorite liqueur instead of brandy for a unique twist, or incorporate seasonal spices like ginger or allspice for an extra kick. You can also swap out the nuts or dried fruits based on your preferences.

For a fun presentation, use cookie cutters to create festive shapes for the pie tops. Stars, holly leaves, or even snowflakes can add a whimsical touch to your holiday table, making your mince pies not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the pastry in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pastry and keep it wrapped in the fridge for up to 2 days before using.

→ What can I substitute for brandy?

If you prefer, you can use apple juice or a non-alcoholic alternative for a similar flavor.

→ Can I freeze the mince pies?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked pies. Just ensure they're well wrapped and bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ How long do these mince pies last?

They can last for up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.