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: 225g all-purpose flour; 100g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 50g icing sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 2-3 tablespoons cold water; 300g mixed dried fruits (currants, raisins, sultanas); 50g chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds); 100g mincemeat; 50ml brandy; 1 teaspoon mixed spice; Zest of 1 lemon; Zest of 1 orange; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); Icing sugar (for dusting)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the festive flavors of these Classic Mince Pies with a touch of brandy, perfect for the holiday season.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-12T19:24:16.374Z

These Classic Mince Pies with Brandy are a cherished tradition during the holiday season. The rich, spiced filling of dried fruits and warm brandy is encased in a buttery pastry, making each bite a delightful experience.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful blend of spices and sweetness in every bite
Perfectly flaky pastry that complements the rich filling
An aromatic touch of brandy elevates the classic recipe

      

The Tradition of Mince Pies

Mince pies have been a cherished part of holiday celebrations for centuries, originating in medieval England. Initially filled with meat, the recipe evolved over time to incorporate sweet fruits and spices, reflecting the changing tastes of society. Today, they symbolize the festive spirit, often enjoyed during Christmas gatherings and parties. Baking a batch of mince pies not only fills your home with delightful aromas but also brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth to your celebrations.

Traditionally served warm, mince pies are often accompanied by a dollop of cream or a scoop of ice cream. The rich, spiced filling pairs beautifully with the buttery, flaky crust, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Sharing these treats with loved ones is a wonderful way to create lasting memories, making them a staple in holiday traditions.

In many households, the act of baking mince pies becomes a cherished family activity. Children can help with rolling out the pastry and filling the pies, fostering a sense of togetherness and creativity. This recipe invites you to partake in this delightful tradition, ensuring that each bite carries the love and joy of the holiday season.

Elevating Your Mince Pie Experience

One of the standout features of these Classic Mince Pies is the addition of brandy. This aromatic spirit not only enhances the flavor profile of the filling but also adds a festive touch that elevates the overall experience. The warmth of the brandy complements the spices, creating a rich and indulgent treat that’s perfect for holiday celebrations. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, consider substituting the brandy with apple juice or a splash of orange juice for a similar depth of flavor.

Pairing these mince pies with a hot cup of tea or mulled wine can also enhance your enjoyment. The warmth of the beverage contrasts beautifully with the cool, sweet filling of the pies, making each bite a delightful experience. For an elegant twist, serve the pies with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon for added warmth and spice.

Don't forget to experiment with your filling! While the classic combination of dried fruits and nuts is a beloved favorite, feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors. Add in some chocolate chips for a decadent touch or a hint of ginger for a spicier kick. Your unique variations will make your mince pies stand out and impress your guests.

Storing and Enjoying Your Mince Pies

Once baked, mince pies can be enjoyed immediately or stored for later. They keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, making them a convenient treat for unexpected guests or cozy nights in. If you want to prepare them in advance, consider freezing unbaked pies. Simply assemble them, freeze until solid, then wrap tightly and store. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

For a festive presentation, consider dusting your mince pies with icing sugar just before serving. This simple touch adds a beautiful, snowy finish that evokes the essence of winter and holiday cheer. You can also serve them with a side of whipped cream or brandy butter for an extra layer of indulgence.

Whether enjoyed as a sweet treat during the holidays or shared with friends and family, these Classic Mince Pies are sure to be a hit. Embrace the tradition, savor the flavors, and make this recipe a new holiday favorite in your home.

Ingredients

For the Pastry

225g all-purpose flour
100g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
50g icing sugar
1 large egg yolk
2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the Filling

300g mixed dried fruits (currants, raisins, sultanas)
50g chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)
100g mincemeat
50ml brandy
1 teaspoon mixed spice
Zest of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 orange

To Finish

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

Gather your ingredients and let's get baking!

Instructions

Make the Pastry

In a mixing bowl, combine 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 a dough forms.

Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the dried fruits, nuts, mincemeat, brandy, mixed spice, and citrus zests until well combined. Set aside.

Assemble the Pies

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and cut out circles for the base and tops of the pies. Place the base circles in a greased muffin tin, fill with the mince mixture, and top with the pastry circles.

Seal edges and make a small slit on top.

Bake

Brush the tops with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Allow to cool slightly before removing from the tin.

Serve

Dust with icing sugar before serving warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your homemade mince pies!

Delight in your homemade mince pies!

Tips for Perfect Pastry

Achieving the perfect pastry for your mince pies is all about technique. Start with chilled ingredients, especially the butter, which helps create that flaky texture. When mixing the butter into the flour, be careful not to overwork the dough; you want it to resemble breadcrumbs. This ensures your pastry is light and flaky after baking.

Another key tip is to allow the pastry to rest in the refrigerator before rolling it out. This helps to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll and preventing shrinkage during baking. If you find the dough too sticky, a light dusting of flour can help you manage it without compromising the texture.

Lastly, when cutting out your pastry circles, use a sharp cutter to ensure clean edges. This not only looks nicer but also helps the edges seal better when assembled with the filling.

Creative Variations

While the classic recipe is undeniably delicious, experimenting with variations can lead to delightful new flavors. Consider adding a splash of flavored liqueur, such as orange or almond, to the filling for a unique twist. Alternatively, try incorporating seasonal fruits like cranberries or apples to give your mince pies a fresh touch.

For a chocolate lover’s dream, add cocoa powder to the pastry or mix chocolate chips into the filling. This combination adds richness and decadence, perfect for those looking to indulge a little more during the holiday season.

Vegan and gluten-free adaptations are also possible. Substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use gluten-free flour blends to create a delicious version that everyone can enjoy. These modifications ensure that no one misses out on the festive treat!

Serving Suggestions

Serving your mince pies warm straight from the oven is a delightful experience. The aroma will fill your home, inviting everyone to gather around. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of clotted cream to enhance the flavors and create a luxurious dessert experience.

For a more casual approach, set up a mince pie bar at your holiday gatherings. Include a variety of toppings such as whipped cream, custard, or even a spiced syrup for guests to personalize their servings. This interactive element adds fun and flair to your holiday festivities.

Finally, don’t forget to save a few pies to enjoy with a warm cup of tea or coffee during a cozy after-dinner chat. The combination of sweet pies and hot beverages makes for a perfect ending to a festive meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the pastry in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pastry dough a day ahead and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for brandy?

You can use apple juice or a non-alcoholic brandy alternative if preferred.

→ How should I store leftover pies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these mince pies?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked assembled pies. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.