Christmas Goodies: Fruity Mince Pies

Nothing says the festive season quite like a batch of traditional European Christmas Goodies Fruity Mince Pies. Warm, comforting, and bursting with seasonal flavors, these little taste treats are the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit and are an integral part of the British Christmas tradition.

Rich History, Cozy Flavor

European Christmas Goodies Fruity Mince Pies date back to medieval times in Britain, when they were first created as portable fruit pies to be distributed as charity to the poor. Over centuries, bakers refined the recipe to include dried fruits, spices, and brandy or rum – elevating them to works of aromatic art.

Today they remain a treasured part of Christmas celebrations across Europe and beyond, evoking feelings of nostalgia, generosity, and community.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (2 sticks) chilled unsalted butter, diced
• 1/3 cup ice water
• 2 cups mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, cranberries)
• 1⁄2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of ground cloves
• 1⁄4 cup brandy or rum
• 1 egg, beaten
• Demerara or turbinado sugar for topping

Recipe Instructions:

• In a food processor, pulse together the flour and butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. With the processor running, slowly add ice water until the dough just comes together. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
• In a medium bowl, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Stir in brandy. Let stand 30 minutes.
• Preheat oven to 400°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut with a 2-inch round cutter, re-rolling scraps.
• Place 1 teaspoon fruit filling in the center of each round. Brush edges with beaten egg and top with another round; press edges to seal.
• Place pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush tops with egg and sprinkle with demerara sugar.
• Bake 18-20 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
• Preparation time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Cooking time: 18-20 minutes | Servings: About 24 pies
• Calories per serving: 120 | Country of origin: England

Pros, Cons, and Benefits

The dried fruits provide antioxidants and fiber, whilst spices like cinnamon aid digestion. Brandy or rum adds festive flavor but packs alcohol so moderation is key. The pastry is crisp yet tender, complementing the jammy filling. High in calories so these pies are best enjoyed in small portions as part of balanced holiday feasting.

Necessary and Optional Kitchen Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• 2-inch round cookie cutter
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make the pies ahead?
A: Yes, unbaked pies can be frozen for 1 month. Thaw and bake as directed.
Q: What if I don’t have a food processor?
A: Use a pastry blender or two knives to cut butter into flour until crumbs form.
Q: Can I use store-bought pie dough?
A: Yes, you can use 1-1/2 lbs of store-bought pie dough instead of making your own.
Q: Can I leave out the alcohol?
A: Yes, substitute an equal amount of additional brandy or rum with fruit juice such as apple.
Q: How can I decorate the pies?
A: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.

Make Holiday Memories with a Fresh Batch

Immersing yourself in the warmth of holiday baking is the perfect way to get into the festive spirit. Share your European Christmas Goodies Fruity Mince Pies with loved ones for an extra dose of seasonal cheer and nostalgia. Dig into this cozy blast from the past – you won’t regret indulging in even just one!

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