Mini Mince Pies
These mini mince pies use a shortcrust pastry made from spelt flour, butter, and a bit of coconut sugar. The dough gets its flavour from orange zest, and each open case is filled with homemade brandy mincemeat. I top each pie with a small pastry star. This recipe makes 18 pies, perfect for a Christmas platter or to enjoy with a cup of tea.
Nutrition Nutrition per portion
- Calories 198kcal 297kcal
- Fat 8.4g 12.5g
- Carbs 26.9g 40.4g
- Protein 2.6g 3.9g
- Fibre 1.8g 2.7g
Ingredients
Spoon measurements may change based on how you scoop the ingredients.
For the most accurate results and nutrition info, it’s best to use grams.
Method
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Why I Like this Recipe
I enjoy having a Christmas treat that’s easy to serve straight from a platter, with no need to cut slices or look for a cake server. These pies are small enough to offer after a meal or with other bakes, so guests can pick what they like. I always save a couple to enjoy later with a cup of tea.
Tips and Variations
- Replace the orange zest with finely grated clementine zest.
- Use the same weight of caster sugar instead of coconut sugar for a paler pastry.
- Add a small pinch of cinnamon to the pastry.
- Cut small pastry holly leaves instead of stars.
- Scatter a few flaked almonds over the filling before adding the pastry tops.
- Serve with a spoonful of plain Greek yoghurt.
- Offer warm custard alongside the pies for dessert.
- Arrange them with other small Christmas bakes so guests can help themselves.
Meal Storage
When the pies are completely cool, store them in an airtight container in the fridge at 0 to 5°C for up to 3 days. Place baking paper between the layers to keep the pastry stars safe.
Freezer tips
Freeze the cooled pies in a single layer until they’re firm, then move them to a freezer-safe container with baking paper between each layer. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months for best results.
Defrost the pies overnight in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can. Use 250g of shop-bought sweet fruit mincemeat instead of homemade. Keep in mind that sweetness and texture can vary between brands, and the nutritional values may be different.
Yes, you can. Swap the 200g of plain spelt flour for 200g of plain wheat flour. Add the water slowly, as you might need a little more or less to bring the dough together.
Yes, you can. Wrap the dough tightly and chill it for up to 24 hours before rolling. If it’s too firm when you take it out of the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes until it softens enough to work with.
The homemade filling in this recipe has apple, dried fruit, orange, spices, butter, and brandy, but no meat or suet.
Closing Note
Serve these little pies warm with custard after Christmas dinner, or add them to a plate of biscuits and other small bakes for guests to share. For more ideas for the festive table, browse our Christmas and New Year recipes.
- 🍃 Lighter
- 🧊 Freezer Friendly
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