Mince pies are a festive classic, particularly enjoyed during Christmas in the UK and Commonwealth countries. This healthier version offers a delicious and nutritious alternative, perfect for celebrating the holiday season.
The recipe combines whole wheat flour, dried fruits like raisins, apricots, and apples, with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Lemon zest adds freshness, while honey or maple syrup provides natural sweetness. These pies offer key health benefits: dried apricots are rich in Vitamin A for skin and vision, lemon zest and dried fruits provide Vitamin C to boost immunity, raisins and apricots supply iron for energy, and whole wheat flour adds magnesium to support muscle function.
These mince pies offer a balanced, festive treat that is both flavorful and nourishing, ideal for Christmas and the New Year 2025.
Ingredients:
1. Pie Dough:
- 250 grams whole wheat flour (can be substituted with 250 grams almond flour for a gluten-free dough)
- 125 grams cold butter (can be substituted with 125 grams coconut butter or olive oil to reduce saturated fats)
- 1 egg (can be replaced with 1 tablespoon ground flax seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water as a vegan alternative)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (can be replaced with 1 tablespoon coconut sugar or natural honey)
- 2 teaspoons cold water (to help bring the dough together)
2. Filling:
- 200 grams chopped apples (can be substituted with any other dried fruits like apricots or prunes)
- 100 grams raisins (can be substituted with 100 grams dried cranberries or dried blueberries)
- 50 grams chopped dried apricots (can be replaced with dried figs)
- 100 grams honey or maple syrup (can be replaced with 100 grams stevia or chopped dates)
- 50 grams lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons water
Preparation Steps:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the whole wheat flour with the cold butter cut into small cubes. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add the egg (or egg alternative) and mix until the dough starts to come together.
- Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough forms a smooth ball.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped apples, raisins, dried apricots, and honey (or your chosen substitute).
- Add the lemon zest, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, lemon juice, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the fruit softens and the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool.
3. Assemble the Pies:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 3mm thickness.
- Using a round cookie cutter, cut circles of dough and press them into individual tart pans.
- Spoon the cooled fruit filling into each dough-lined tart shell.
- Use leftover dough to create small shapes or lids to cover the pies, sealing the edges.
- Use a sharp knife to make a few small slits on top of each pie to allow steam to escape while baking.
4. Bake:
- Place the pies in the oven and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the pies cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Adding Extra Flavor in a Healthy Way:
1. For added flavor, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract or ground ginger to the filling.
2. Use a food processor to quickly and evenly blend the dough ingredients for a smoother texture.
3. To ensure a flakier crust, try adding a teaspoon of white vinegar to the dough, which helps improve its texture.
4. For a fruity twist, lightly drizzle orange juice or rose water over the filling before baking for a refreshing, aromatic note.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Mince Pies Recipe
1. Can I make mince pies in advance and freeze them?
Yes, you can definitely make mince pies in advance and freeze them. After assembling the pies but before baking, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw them. Simply bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
2. Can I substitute the dried fruits with fresh fruits for the filling?
While dried fruits give mince pies their traditional rich, concentrated flavor, you can use fresh fruits. However, keep in mind that fresh fruits have higher water content and can make the filling runnier. If you prefer using fresh fruits, try using apples, pears, or a combination, and be sure to cook the filling longer to reduce moisture before assembling the pies. You can also add a bit of cornstarch to thicken the filling.
3. How can I make the dough more tender and flaky?
To achieve a more tender and flaky pie crust, it's essential to handle the dough as little as possible. Use very cold butter (or coconut butter) and even chill your bowl and rolling pin before making the dough. For extra flakiness, try adding a tablespoon of chilled vodka or vinegar to the dough mixture. The alcohol evaporates during baking, leaving behind a delicate, crisp texture.
Can I make a healthier version of the mince pie filling?
Yes, you can make a healthier version of the filling by reducing or substituting the sweeteners. Instead of honey or maple syrup, try using mashed dates or a combination of stevia and a splash of orange juice for natural sweetness. You can also reduce the quantity of dried fruit and use more fresh fruit to lower the sugar content while still retaining a deliciously fruity filling.
5. What are some variations of the spices I can use in the mince pie filling?
The traditional mince pie filling includes cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, but you can get creative with your spices! For a unique twist, try adding cardamom, ground ginger, or a hint of allspice. For an even more aromatic filling, you could also incorporate a splash of vanilla extract or orange zest to complement the spices. Just make sure to adjust the quantities so that the flavors remain balanced.
Tip for Balancing Flavors:
To ensure your flavors remain balanced, start by adding spices and flavorings in small increments. Ingredients like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg are potent, so it's easy to overdo them. Taste your filling as you go, and adjust accordingly. If you're adding new spices, such as cardamom or ginger, try using a little at a time and balance them with bright notes like citrus zest or vanilla extract. The goal is to create a harmonious blend where sweetness, spice, and acidity complement each other, without any one flavor overpowering the rest.
Nutrition Value:
1. Pie Dough Ingredients
- 250 grams whole wheat flour
Calories: ~850 kcal
Carbohydrates: 170 grams
Protein: 30 grams
Fat: 4 grams
Sodium: 2 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: B-vitamins (especially B1, B3, and B5)
Minerals: Magnesium, Phosphorus, Zinc
Nutritional Benefit: Whole wheat flour is high in fiber, which supports digestive health. It provides essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to energy production, bone health, and immune function.
Substitute: Almond flour
Calories: ~160 kcal
Carbohydrates: 6 grams
Protein: 6 grams
Fat: 14 grams
Sodium: 1 milligram
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Vitamin E
Minerals: Magnesium, Calcium
Nutritional Benefit: Almond flour is lower in carbohydrates and higher in healthy fats, providing heart-healthy benefits and supporting blood sugar balance.
- 125 grams cold butter
Calories: ~900 kcal
Carbohydrates: 0 grams
Protein: 1 gram
Fat: 100 grams (mainly saturated fat)
Sodium: 50 milligrams
Cholesterol: 120 milligrams
Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin D
Minerals: Calcium, Phosphorus
Nutritional Benefit: Butter provides a rich source of Vitamin A for eye health and immunity. However, it is high in saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation.
Substitute: Coconut butter or olive oil
Calories:
- Coconut butter: ~900 kcal
- Olive oil: ~880 kcal
Carbohydrates: 0 grams
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 100 grams
Sodium: Coconut butter: 50 milligrams; Olive oil: 0 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Vitamin E (olive oil), Vitamin K (coconut butter)
Minerals: Iron (olive oil)
Nutritional Benefit: Olive oil offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while coconut butter provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that can support energy levels and metabolism.
- 1 egg
Calories: ~70 kcal
Carbohydrates: 1 gram
Protein: 6 grams
Fat: 5 grams
Sodium: 70 milligrams
Cholesterol: 185 milligrams
Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin D, B-vitamins
Minerals: Phosphorus, Selenium
Nutritional Benefit: Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like Vitamin D and B12, which support immune health and energy production.
Substitute: Ground flax seeds with water
Calories: ~37 kcal (1 tablespoon flax seeds)
Carbohydrates: 2 grams
Protein: 1.3 grams
Fat: 3 grams
Sodium: 1 milligram
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Omega-3 fatty acids
Minerals: Magnesium, Phosphorus
Nutritional Benefit: Flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and promote heart health.
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Calories: ~50 kcal
Carbohydrates: 13 grams
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 0 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: None
Minerals: None
Nutritional Benefit: Sugar provides a quick source of energy but should be consumed in moderation due to its impact on blood sugar levels.
Substitute: Coconut sugar or natural honey
Coconut sugar:
Calories: ~50 kcal
Carbohydrates: 13 grams
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 0 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Iron, Zinc
Minerals: Potassium
Nutritional Benefit: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar and contains small amounts of minerals like potassium and zinc.
Natural honey (1 tablespoon):
Calories: ~64 kcal
Carbohydrates: 17 grams
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 1 milligram
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Vitamin C
Minerals: Calcium, Iron
Nutritional Benefit: Honey provides antioxidants and can help soothe a sore throat, along with antibacterial properties.
- 2 teaspoons cold water
Calories: 0 kcal
Carbohydrates: 0 grams
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 0 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: None
Minerals: None
Nutritional Benefit: Water hydrates the dough mixture and helps in binding the ingredients together without adding any extra calories or nutrients.
2. Filling Ingredients
- 200 grams chopped apples
Calories: ~104 kcal
Carbohydrates: 27 grams
Protein: 0.5 grams
Fat: 0.3 grams
Sodium: 2 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Vitamin C, Vitamin A
Minerals: Potassium
Nutritional Benefit: Apples are rich in fiber, which aids digestion, and Vitamin C, which supports the immune system.
- 100 grams raisins
Calories: ~299 kcal
Carbohydrates: 79 grams
Protein: 3 grams
Fat: 0.5 grams
Sodium: 12 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Vitamin B6, Vitamin C
Minerals: Potassium, Iron, Magnesium
Nutritional Benefit: Raisins provide fiber, iron (to boost energy), and antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage.
- 50 grams chopped dried apricots
Calories: ~148 kcal
Carbohydrates: 39 grams
Protein: 1.6 grams
Fat: 0.2 grams
Sodium: 3 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin C
Minerals: Potassium, Iron
Nutritional Benefit: Dried apricots are high in fiber, Vitamin A (for eye health), and potassium (to support heart health).
- 100 grams honey or maple syrup
Calories:
- Honey: ~304 kcal
- Maple syrup: ~260 kcal
Carbohydrates:
- Honey: 82 grams
- Maple syrup: 67 grams
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 1 milligram
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Honey (small amounts of Vitamin C)
Minerals: Maple syrup (manganese, zinc)
Nutritional Benefit: Honey has antibacterial properties and offers antioxidants, while maple syrup contains minerals like manganese, which support bone health and energy production.
- 50 grams lemon zest
Calories: ~12 kcal
Carbohydrates: 3 grams
Protein: 0.5 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 0 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Vitamin C
Minerals: Potassium
Nutritional Benefit: Lemon zest provides Vitamin C, which boosts immunity and skin health.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Calories: ~6 kcal
Carbohydrates: 2 grams
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 1 milligram
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Vitamin K
Minerals: Calcium, Manganese
Nutritional Benefit: Cinnamon contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help regulate blood sugar levels.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Calories: ~3 kcal
Carbohydrates: 1 gram
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 0 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Vitamin K
Minerals: Manganese, Iron
Nutritional Benefit: Cloves have antioxidant properties and may support digestive health and reduce inflammation.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Calories: ~4 kcal
Carbohydrates: 1 gram
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 1 milligram
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Vitamin A
Minerals: Iron, Magnesium
Nutritional Benefit: Nutmeg supports digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Calories: ~4 kcal
Carbohydrates: 1 gram
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 1 milligram
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: Vitamin C
Minerals: Potassium
Nutritional Benefit: Lemon juice is high in Vitamin C, which boosts immunity and skin health.
- 2 tablespoons water
Calories: 0 kcal
Carbohydrates: 0 grams
Protein: 0 grams
Fat: 0 grams
Sodium: 0 milligrams
Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
Vitamins: None
Minerals: None
Nutritional Benefit: Water is essential for hydration and helps bind the filling ingredients together.
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