As the festive season approaches, our thoughts turn to traditional treats that evoke warmth, comfort, and joy. And what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with a platter of delectable mincemeat delights? From classic pies and tarts to creative twists on old favorites, mincemeat is a versatile ingredient that lends itself beautifully to a wide range of sweet and savory dishes.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a culinary newbie, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering mincemeat recipes to inspire your holiday cooking. From sweet treats like Mincemeat Pie with Flaky Crust and Golden Mincemeat Shortbread Bars, to savory options like Warm Mincemeat Bread Pudding and Savory Mincemeat and Cheese Turnovers, we’ve got something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of mincemeat, showcasing its many uses and flavors. So go ahead, get baking, and let the festive feast begin!
Classic Mincemeat Pie with Flaky Crust
A traditional British dessert, this classic mincemeat pie is a staple of the holiday season. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors, wrapped in a buttery crust, makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
For the Filling:
– 1 cup mincemeat (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons brandy or other liquor (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Make the Crust: Whisk together flour and salt. Add butter, using a pastry blender or your fingers, until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water, mixing until dough forms.
3. Roll out crust on floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place in dish and trim edges.
4. Fill with Mincemeat: Combine mincemeat, brown sugar, orange marmalade, and brandy (if using). Pour into crust-lined pie dish.
5. Cook: Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden and filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spiced Mincemeat Tarts with Orange Zest
These sweet and spicy tarts are perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a unique dessert for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mincemeat (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together mincemeat, confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Roll out the pie crust to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 6-8 squares or shapes of your choice.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the spiced mincemeat mixture onto one half of each square.
5. Fold the other half over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp edges.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mincemeat and Apple Crumble
This classic British dessert combines the warmth of mincemeat with the crunch of a crumbly topping, perfect for a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mincemeat
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mincemeat and sliced apples.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add the dry mixture to the apple mixture and stir until combined.
5. Roll out the butter and oats into small pieces, then sprinkle over the apple mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crumble is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rich Mincemeat Christmas Pudding
This classic British pudding is a staple of the holiday season, filled with sweet and tangy mincemeat, dried fruit, and spices. This recipe yields a rich and moist pudding that’s sure to be a hit at any festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup mincemeat (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, currants)
– 1 large egg
– 1 tbsp brandy or other liquor (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease a 1-quart pudding basin or a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, mincemeat, dried fruit, egg, and brandy (if using) to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour mixture into prepared pudding basin or loaf pan.
5. Cover with a clean cloth or parchment paper and steam for 2-1/2 hours.
6. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Mincemeat-Stuffed Baked Apples
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the spicy warmth of mincemeat, perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening. This easy-to-make dessert is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baking apples (Granny Smith or similar)
– 1/2 cup mincemeat
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Core the apples, leaving about 1/2 inch at the top.
3. In a small bowl, mix together mincemeat, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Stuff each apple with the mincemeat mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and dot the tops with melted butter.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Golden Mincemeat Shortbread Bars
These rich and buttery shortbread bars are infused with the warm, aromatic flavors of golden mincemeat. Perfect for a holiday treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup golden mincemeat (chopped)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Press half the dough into prepared baking dish.
4. Spread golden mincemeat over dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Top with remaining dough.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mincemeat and Almond Galette
A classic British dessert, this mincemeat and almond galette is a sweet and savory treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. The combination of tart mincemeat and crunchy almonds in a buttery pastry crust is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1/2 cup mincemeat filling (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and butter. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Spread mincemeat filling over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle sliced almonds and granulated sugar over the mincemeat.
7. Fold the edges of the dough up over the filling to form a crust.
8. Brush the crust with beaten egg for glazing.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Warm Mincemeat Bread Pudding
Warm Mincemeat Bread Pudding: A Cozy Twist on a Classic Treat
This sweet and savory bread pudding combines the spices of traditional mincemeat with the warmth of freshly baked bread. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, it’s a delightful dessert to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup mincemeat filling (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, mincemeat filling, brown sugar, and spices.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm, topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mincemeat Swirl Cheesecake
Mincemeat Swirl Cheesecake Recipe
A classic cheesecake with a twist! This recipe combines the traditional flavors of mincemeat with the creamy texture of a swirl cheesecake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup mincemeat filling (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened.
3. Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Gradually add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
6. Pour half of the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan.
7. Dollop mincemeat filling on top of the cheesecake batter.
8. Top with remaining cheesecake batter.
9. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
10. Let cool completely before topping with whipped cream and chopped nuts (if desired).
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Festive Mincemeat Thumbprint Cookies
Festive Mincemeat Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Get into the holiday spirit with these sweet and savory cookies, filled with a delightful mincemeat surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup mincemeat filling (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Colored sugar or sprinkles, for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.
6. Make an indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb or a spoon. Fill with mincemeat filling.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar and decorating with colored sugar or sprinkles (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mincemeat and Walnut Loaf Cake
Moist and flavorful, this classic British-style loaf cake combines the sweetness of mincemeat with the crunch of walnuts. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a warm breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup mincemeat
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, eggs, mincemeat, and chopped walnuts. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Pour in milk and stir until batter is smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Mincemeat Strudel
This classic German dessert combines sweet and savory flavors with a flaky pastry crust, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. With this easy recipe, you can create a delicious Homemade Mincemeat Strudel in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup mincemeat filling (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread mincemeat filling evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
4. Sprinkle sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg evenly over the mincemeat.
5. Fold the 1-inch borders over the filling to create a seal.
6. Brush the top of the strudel with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mincemeat-Filled Doughnuts
Sweet and savory meet in these indulgent Mincemeat-Filled Doughnuts! These soft, fluffy treats are infused with the warm spices of traditional mincemeat, making them a delightful twist on classic doughnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Mincemeat filling (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. Whisk together flour, milk, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add melted butter and mix until smooth.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Punch down the dough and roll out to 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into rings or shapes of your choice.
7. Fry doughnuts in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil with paper towels.
9. Fill doughnuts with mincemeat filling while still warm.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Decadent Mincemeat Chocolate Brownies
Decadent Mincemeat Chocolate Brownies: A rich and fudgy treat that combines the warmth of mincemeat with the deepness of chocolate, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup mincemeat (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Stir in mincemeat and chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Mincemeat and Brandy Butter Tart
This traditional British tart combines the warmth of mincemeat with the richness of brandy butter, perfect for a winter’s evening. With its sweet and spicy flavors, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup mincemeat filling (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup brandy butter (see below for recipe)
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Brandy Butter Recipe:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons brandy
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Spoon mincemeat filling onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush with beaten egg.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. While tart is baking, prepare brandy butter by mixing softened butter, brandy, and sugar in a small bowl.
7. Remove tart from oven and brush with brandy butter.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Mincemeat Oatmeal Cookies
A sweet and spicy twist on classic oatmeal cookies, these treats combine the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the tanginess of mincemeat. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup mincemeat filling (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in mincemeat filling, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mincemeat and Pecan Phyllo Rolls
This sweet and savory treat combines the flavors of traditional mincemeat with the crunch of pecans, all wrapped up in a crispy phyllo package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mincemeat
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, mix together mincemeat and chopped pecans.
4. Layer phyllo dough with the sugar and cinnamon mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around each sheet.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the mincemeat-pecan mixture onto the center of each sheet.
6. Roll up tightly, starting from one end, and brush with vegetable oil.
7. Place rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Mincemeat Ice Cream
This rich and creamy ice cream combines the warm spices of traditional mincemeat with the coolness of a summer treat. Perfect for those who love a sweet and savory combination.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons mincemeat filling (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and softened butter until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Stir in mincemeat filling, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Churn the mixture according to your ice cream maker’s instructions.
5. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and place in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (chilling time: 2 hours or overnight)
Mincemeat-Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a twist on the classic French toast, filled with sweet and tangy mincemeat.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Challah or Brioche)
– 1/2 cup mincemeat
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Cinnamon or nutmeg for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs and milk until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. While the toast is cooking, spread a tablespoon of mincemeat on one half of each slice.
6. Fold the other half over to enclose the filling.
7. Serve warm with melted butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Savory Mincemeat and Cheese Turnovers
These buttery pastry pockets are filled with a rich mixture of sautéed onions, apples, and cheese, perfect for a satisfying snack or light meal. A classic combination that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 medium apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onions and apples in butter until softened. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spoon the onion-apple mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges. Sprinkle cheese over the top.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over filling and press edges together with a fork to seal.
6. Place turnovers on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 delicious mincemeat recipes! From classic pies to savory turnovers, and from sweet treats like cheesecake and brownies to warm bread puddings and strudels, there’s something for everyone. Discover new ways to use this traditional filling, whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a quick and easy snack. With flavors ranging from spiced and citrusy to rich and indulgent, these recipes are sure to bring joy and warmth to your festive feasts.
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