Homemade Mince Pies with Dried Fruit Filling

Get guest judge Lucky Masinya's masterclass homemade mince pies recipe

OVERVIEW

Makes: 12–14 mini pies
Prep Time: 20 min
Cook Time: 25 min

INGREDIENTS

For the Filling:
● 1 Bag of dried fruit
● 50 g salted Clover butter
● 50 g brown Huletts sugar
● 1 tsp ground cinnamon
● 1⁄2 tsp ground nutmeg
● 2 tbsp orange juice
● Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon

For the Pastry:
● 1 packet store-bought TODAY shortcrust or puff pastry
● 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
● Huletts Icing sugar, for dusting

METHOD

1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the dried fruit, sugar, spices, and citrus zest. Stir in the brandy or orange juice and cook gently for 5–7 minutes until the mixture is soft and slightly sticky. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 12–14 cup muffin tin with paper cases or lightly grease.

3. Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the pastry on a floured surface. Cut out circles slightly larger than the muffin cups for the bases. Cut smaller shapes (stars, circles, or hearts) for the tops.

4. Assemble the Pies: Place a pastry circle into each muffin cup. Spoon 1–2 teaspoons of the filling into each base.

5. Top with the pastry shapes.

6. Brush with beaten egg.

7. Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crisp.

8. Allow pies to cool slightly, then dust with icing sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.