Hey there, pie lovers!
Are you in the mood for some classic comfort food? I’ve got the perfect treat for you!
Today, I’m sharing my recipe for old-fashioned mincemeat pie.
This pie is packed with flavor and nostalgia. It’s sweet, spicy, and perfect for those cozy gatherings.
If you’ve never tried it before, you’re in for a delightful surprise!
Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

Ingredient Substitutions
Raisins, currants, and sultanas can be interchanged or substituted with other dried fruits like chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or figs. This allows for customization of flavor while maintaining the pie’s fruity essence. Adjust quantities to personal taste. Mixed candied peel can be replaced with additional citrus zest or finely chopped dried fruit for a less sweet option. The spice blend can be customized using a combination of nutmeg, allspice, and ginger to suit individual preferences. For an alcohol-free version, substitute the Irish whiskey with apple juice or strong brewed tea, adding a tablespoon of vinegar to help preserve the mincemeat. Muscovado sugar can be replaced with regular brown sugar combined with a tablespoon of molasses for a similar rich flavor profile.
| Preparation Time | 720-720 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Total Time | 730-735 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 3500-4000
- Protein: 30-40 g
- Fat: 200-220 g
- Carbohydrates: 480-500 g
Ingredients
- zest and juice from 1 medium orange
- 0.5 tsp cinnamon
- 0.67 cup Irish whiskey (like Jameson, for authentic taste)
- 1 cup muscovado or dark brown sugar (muscovado preferred for depth of flavor)
- 1 cup mixed candied peel
- 1 medium cooking apple (peeled and shredded)
- 1.5 cups raisins
- 1 stick butter (unsalted, melted)
- 1.5 cups sultanas
- zest and juice from 1 medium lemon
- 1 tsp spice blend (for a traditional flavor)
- 1.5 cups currants
Step 1: Soak the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine all the necessary ingredients for your mincemeat mixture.
Cover the bowl and allow the ingredients to soak and hydrate overnight or for a minimum of 12 hours.
This step allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and flavorful base for your recipe.
Step 2: Cook the Mincemeat Mixture
The next day, transfer the contents of the bowl to a medium-sized saucepan.
Set the saucepan over medium/low heat and allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes.
During this time, the liquid will reduce and thicken slightly, developing into a saucy consistency.
Be careful not to cook off all the liquid, as the mixture should remain somewhat saucy.
Refer to the accompanying video for guidance on the desired consistency.
Step 3: Store the Mincemeat
Once the mincemeat mixture has reached the desired consistency, carefully transfer it to sterilized jars.
Seal the jars tightly and store them in a cupboard.
The mincemeat can be preserved for up to 1 year, providing a delicious filling for your homemade mince pies and other recipes.
Remember to stir well before each use to redistribute the flavors evenly.


Do you have to process the jars in a water bath or pressure canner before storing?
Yes, i would recommend doing this. 🙂