How To Make a Traditional Mincemeat Recipe

There’s something magical about a traditional mincemeat recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite. This timeless treat combines succulent dried fruits, spiced apple, and a hint of citrus, creating a rich, velvety texture that melts in your mouth.

With just 15 minutes of prep and a quick 15-minute cook time, it’s surprisingly simple to make, yet the flavors deepen beautifully after a 12-hour soak. Perfect for pies, tarts, or even spooned over ice cream, it’s a versatile delight that feels like a cozy hug in every spoonful.

The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and brandy infuses the mincemeat with a festive aroma that fills your kitchen with holiday cheer. Each bite offers a harmonious mix of sweet, tangy, and spiced notes, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply indulging in a homemade treat, this recipe promises to deliver a taste of tradition with every bite. It’s a little effort for a lot of reward, and the results are absolutely worth it.

Ingredients for Traditional Mincemeat

• 1 medium cooking apple, peeled and grated
• 1 ½ cups (7 ½oz/213g) raisins
• 1 ½ cups (7 ½oz/213g) currants
• 1 ½ cups (7 ½oz/213g) sultanas
• 1 cup (8oz/225g) candied mixed peel
• 1 teaspoon mixed spice*
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 medium lemon (zest and juice)
• 1 medium orange (zest and juice)
• 1 cup (6oz/170g) muscovado sugar* (or dark brown sugar)
• ⅔ cup (5oz/158ml) O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey (substitute with brandy or rum)
• 1 stick (4oz/115g) butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the grated apple, raisins, currants, sultanas, candied mixed peel, mixed spice, cinnamon, lemon zest and juice, orange zest and juice, muscovado sugar, whiskey, and butter. Mix well.
2. Soak: Cover the bowl and let the mixture soak and hydrate overnight or for at least 12 hours.
3. Simmer: The next day, transfer the mixture to a medium-sized saucepan. Simmer uncovered over medium/low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces and thickens slightly. Note: The mixture should remain saucy; avoid cooking off all the liquid.
4. Store: Spoon the mincemeat into sterilized jars and seal tightly. Store in a cupboard for up to 1 year. Stir well before using in recipes like homemade mince pies.

Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions for Your Mincemeat

This traditional mincemeat is a versatile treat that shines in many ways. Use it as a filling for homemade mince pies, or spread it on warm toast for a festive breakfast. For a show-stopping dessert, layer it with custard or vanilla ice cream.

It also pairs beautifully with cheese boards—try it with sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a sweet-savory combo.

Storage Secrets: Keeping Your Mincemeat Fresh

Store your mincemeat in sterilized jars in a cool, dark cupboard for up to 1 year. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 2 weeks. If you notice any mold or off smells, discard it immediately. For longer storage, consider freezing in airtight containers for up to 6 months—just thaw in the fridge before using.

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers

Short on time? Skip the overnight soak by simmering the ingredients for 20-25 minutes instead, stirring frequently to ensure even hydration. Alternatively, prepare the mincemeat in bulk and freeze portions for future use. This way, you’ll always have a festive treat ready to go!

Recipe Variations: Customize Your Mincemeat

Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your taste. Swap the whiskey for brandy or rum, or use dried cranberries instead of currants for a tangy twist. For a nutty crunch, add ½ cup chopped almonds or walnuts. If you prefer a vegan version, replace the butter with coconut oil—it’s just as rich and delicious!

Essential Equipment for Mincemeat Success

To make this recipe a breeze, you’ll need a large mixing bowl, a medium-sized saucepan, and sterilized jars with airtight lids. A microplane grater is perfect for zesting the lemon and orange, while a sharp peeler ensures your apple is prepped quickly. Don’t forget a wooden spoon for stirring—it’s gentle on your ingredients and pan!

How To Make a Traditional Mincemeat Recipe

Shaziya

There’s something magical about a traditional mincemeat recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite. With just 15 minutes of prep and a quick 15-minute cook time, it’s surprisingly simple to make, yet the flavors deepen beautifully after a 12-hour soak.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Soak 12 minutes mins

Servings 3 cups (900g)

Ingredients

  

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• 1 medium cooking apple, peeled and grated
• 1 ½ cups raisins (7 ½oz/213g)
• 1 ½ cups currants (7 ½oz/213g)
• 1 ½ cups sultanas (7 ½oz/213g)
• 1 cup candied mixed peel (8oz/225g)
• 1 teaspoon mixed spice
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 medium lemon zest and juice
• 1 medium orange zest and juice
• 1 cup muscovado sugar (6oz/170g) (or dark brown sugar)
• ⅔ cup O’Driscolls Irish Whiskey (5oz/158ml) (brandy or rum)
• 1 stick butter (4oz/115g)

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl add all of the above ingredients. Cover and allow to soak and hydrate overnight or for a minimum of 12 hours.
• The next day add the contents of the bowl to a medium-sized saucepan. Simmer uncovered over medium/low heat for roughly 10-15 minutes until the liquid reduces and thickens slightly. This is a saucy recipe, don’t cook off all of the liquid (see video for consistency).
• Store the mincemeat in sterilized jars in a cupboard for up to 1 year. Use in my Homemade Mince pies recipe. Stir well before use.

Keyword Christmas dessert, fruit filling, Holiday Baking, mincemeat, traditional recipe

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