If you’re looking to captivate your guests with a dessert that harmonizes nostalgia with rich flavor, look no further than Old-Time Mincemeat Pie. This classic pie is more than just a holiday treat; it embodies years of tradition, boasting a magnificent blend of dried fruits, zesty citrus, and warm spices, all harmoniously encased within a flaky, golden crust. The Old-Time Mincemeat Pie is simply irresistible, making it an essential addition to any holiday dessert spread.
This pie is not only a delightful choice for holiday occasions, but it also provides a cozy sense of comfort that harkens back to simpler times. The use of apples, raisins, figs, and even a touch of beef suet offers a unique but delicious flavor profile that is often overlooked in modern dessert tables. It’s an easy make-ahead recipe, which means you can devote more time to your guests and less time in the kitchen when they arrive. Imagine the satisfaction on everyone’s faces as they take their first bites of this lovingly crafted treat, reminding them of cherished holiday memories.
By incorporating this unique mincemeat filling into a classic crust, you can create a dessert that’s both timeless and trendy. Therefore, whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or simply want to indulge yourself on a cozy evening, this Old-Time Mincemeat Pie serves up the perfect combination of tradition, ease, and satisfaction. You won’t just be serving a pie; you’ll be offering a slice of history!
Why You’ll Love This Old-Time Mincemeat Pie
- Rich Flavor: The blend of dried fruits and spices creates a taste that is both fragrant and flavorful.
- Easy Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling a day in advance to save time on the day of serving.
- Versatile Options: Enjoy warm or at room temperature, and serve with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra touch!
- Beautiful Presentation: The golden flaky crust and rich filling make for an eye-catching dessert centerpiece.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the delightful task of pie-making, it’s essential to set up your kitchen. Begin by clearing and cleaning your workspace to ensure you have enough room to roll out the pie crust and mix your mincemeat filling. Gather the ingredients listed above and make sure they are at the correct temperature — the unsalted butter should be chilled, and the fruits should be fresh or adequately dried.
You’ll need a trusty heavy-bottomed saucepan to simmer the filling and a mixing bowl for your crust. Investing in a quality pastry cutter will help you blend the butter and flour effectively, creating that desired crumbly texture for your dough. Don’t forget to grab a rolling pin for rolling out the crust, along with a 9-inch pie dish to hold your delicious creation. A pastry brush is also a must for applying the egg wash for that beautiful golden finish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup finely chopped beef or 1/2 cup suet (or use butter for vegetarian version)
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped tart apples
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 cup currants
- 1/2 cup chopped dried figs or dates
- 1/2 cup chopped candied citrus peel
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses or dark corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Juice and zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup apple cider or brandy
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Filling Ingredients
Begin your journey by preparing the mincemeat filling. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine your choice of finely chopped beef or suet, tart apples, raisins, currants, figs, and candied citrus peel. Set your stove to a medium heat and mix the ingredients well, allowing them to meld together. This step is vital as it begins to heighten the flavors of the ingredients, leading to a more cohesive filling.
Step 2: Simmer for Flavor
Next, it’s time to add the sweet and spicy elements! Pour in the molasses, brown sugar, salt, and spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. Don’t forget the citrus juice and zest along with the apple cider or brandy. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for about 30 minutes. This slow cooking will thicken your filling and allow all those wonderful spices to infuse their flavors. The result will be a rich, glossy filling that’s bursting with flavor. Once complete, take it off the heat and let it cool completely, or refrigerate it overnight for even deeper flavors.
Step 3: Create the Pie Dough
While your filling is cooling, you can prepare the pie dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and optional granulated sugar. Using a pastry cutter or two knives, cut in the chilled cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This method ensures a flaky texture in your crust. Now, gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together but isn’t sticky. Divide the dough into two equal pieces, shape them into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill them in the refrigerator for about an hour.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once your dough is chilled, roll out one disc on a lightly floured surface to form a 12-inch circle. Carefully press this dough into your 9-inch pie dish, and trim any excess edges. Now, scoop the cooled mincemeat filling into the bottom crust, distributing it evenly. Roll out the second disc to create your top crust. Carefully place it over the filling, sealing the edges by crimping them with your fingers or fork. Don’t forget to cut vents in the top to allow steam to escape and brush with the egg wash for that perfect golden crust!
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Place your pie in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the crust is beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least an hour. This cooling period will help the filling set properly, ensuring each slice holds its shape beautifully. Finally, you can serve this delightful pie warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence.
Variations
- Protein: Instead of using beef or suet, try substituting with mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Vegetables: Add finely chopped carrots or celery for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
- Spices: Personalize your pie with additional spices like ginger or cardamom to enhance the flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- For best flavor, make the mincemeat filling a day ahead and refrigerate overnight.
- Always let the filling cool completely before assembling the pie to avoid a soggy crust.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices warm with a side of classic vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors and temperatures.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch that enhances the pie’s rich flavors.
Tips
- Use a pastry brush to apply the egg wash for an even golden finish on the crust.
- Store any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to three days for maximum freshness.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 350 per slice
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
FAQs
Can I make Old-Time Mincemeat Pie ahead of time?
Yes! This pie actually tastes better when the filling is made a day ahead and allowed to develop deeper flavors in the refrigerator.
How should I store leftover pie?
Leftover pie should be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to three days to ensure it remains fresh.
What is mincemeat made of?
Mincemeat traditionally contains a mixture of dried fruits, spices, and often meat or suet, although many modern recipes offer vegetarian alternatives.
Can I freeze this pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked pie for up to 3 months. Just bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Old-Time Mincemeat Pie is truly a spectacular dessert that brings history and flavor together in a remarkable way. By following this guide, you can create a pie that not only tastes fantastic but also tells a story. The effort you invest in making this pie will be rewarded with smiles and satisfied sighs from your guests as they indulge in a classic dessert that has stood the test of time. Remember to try out different variations to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations in the comments below. Happy baking!
Print
Old-Time Mincemeat Pie
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Old-Time Mincemeat Pie is a classic holiday dessert blending nostalgia with rich flavors of dried fruits, spices, and a flaky crust.
Ingredients
- 1 cup finely chopped beef or 1/2 cup suet (or use butter for vegetarian version)
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped tart apples
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 cup currants
- 1/2 cup chopped dried figs or dates
- 1/2 cup chopped candied citrus peel
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup molasses or dark corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Juice and zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup apple cider or brandy
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Begin your journey by preparing the mincemeat filling. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine your choice of finely chopped beef or suet, tart apples, raisins, currants, figs, and candied citrus peel. Set your stove to a medium heat and mix the ingredients well.
- Next, it’s time to add the sweet and spicy elements! Pour in the molasses, brown sugar, salt, and spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. Don’t forget the citrus juice and zest along with the apple cider or brandy. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for about 30 minutes.
- While your filling is cooling, you can prepare the pie dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and optional granulated sugar. Using a pastry cutter or two knives, cut in the chilled cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once your dough is chilled, roll out one disc on a lightly floured surface to form a 12-inch circle. Carefully press this dough into your 9-inch pie dish.
- Place your pie in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the crust is beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Notes
For best flavor, make the mincemeat filling a day ahead and refrigerate overnight. Store any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to three days for maximum freshness.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 350 per slice
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 5 g