Delia Smith’s Mince Pies Recipe

Delia Smith’s Mince Pies recipe is a classic British dessert that brings together the warmth and rich flavors of the holiday season. The recipe, created by renowned British chef Delia Smith, is celebrated for its perfect balance between crisp, buttery pastry and the sweet, spiced filling that comes from mincemeat. Traditionally enjoyed during Christmas, these mince pies are the epitome of festive baking, offering a delightful contrast between the crumbly pastry shell and the aromatic, fruity mincemeat filling.

Delia Smith, known for her approachable cooking style, ensures that this mince pie recipe remains easy to follow, even for novice bakers. The combination of shortcrust pastry and well-seasoned mincemeat delivers a deep flavor profile, making these pies a must-have for any festive gathering.

Delia Smith’s Mince Pies Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Delia’s Mince Pies rely on a simple yet high-quality selection of ingredients to achieve their delicious flavor. Here’s what you will need:

For The Pastry

• 225g (8 oz) plain flour – This will serve as the base for the pastry dough, providing the structure and crumbly texture.
• 110g (4 oz) unsalted butter – The fat in the butter creates a delicate, short texture in the pastry.
• 50g (2 oz) caster sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to the pastry and helps it brown beautifully when baked.
• 1 large egg yolk – Helps bind the dough together while adding richness to the flavor.
• 1-2 tablespoons cold water – To bring the dough together, allowing it to come to the right consistency.

For The Filling

• 350g (12 oz) mincemeat – The star of the show, mincemeat is a spiced fruit mixture made with dried fruits, suet, sugar, and brandy or rum. You can either use store-bought or homemade mincemeat.
• 1 tablespoon brandy or rum – Adds an extra layer of flavor to the mincemeat, enhancing its depth.
• 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (optional) – For extra sweetness and richness in the filling.

To Finish

• Caster sugar – To sprinkle on top of the mince pies after baking, giving them a nice glossy finish.

Equipment Needed

When preparing Delia Smith’s Mince Pies, the necessary equipment is straightforward and commonly found in most kitchens. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Baking tray – To place the pies on while they bake.
• Mince pie tin (12-hole) – This is essential for shaping your pies and providing a neat, uniform finish.
• Rolling pin – Used to roll out the pastry evenly.
• Pastry cutter or round cutter – To cut the dough into rounds for the pie bases and lids.
• Pastry brush – For glazing the pies with egg wash (if desired) for a golden finish.
• Fork – To press the edges of the pies to seal them.
• Cooling rack – To allow the pies to cool evenly after baking.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Delia Smith’s Mince Pies

1. Prepare The Pastry

   • Begin by sifting the plain flour into a large mixing bowl. Add the unsalted butter, cut into cubes, and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
   • Stir in the caster sugar, then add the egg yolk. Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together. Avoid overworking the dough to keep it light and crumbly.
   • Wrap the dough in cling film and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.

2. Roll Out The Pastry

   • Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) or 170°C (340°F) for fan-assisted ovens. Grease your mince pie tin lightly.
   • On a floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry to about 3mm thickness. Use a pastry cutter or round cutter (roughly 7cm in diameter) to cut circles for the bases of the pies.
   • Press these circles gently into the pie tin, making sure they fit snugly in each hole.

3. Fill The Pies

   • Spoon about a teaspoon of mincemeat into each pastry base. Be careful not to overfill, as the mincemeat can bubble up during baking.
   • If you like, add a drop of brandy or rum to each spoonful of mincemeat to boost the flavor.

4. Top The Pies

   • Roll out the remaining pastry and cut smaller circles or shapes (like stars or hearts) to fit on top of the pies. If you prefer, you can also make a lattice top.
   • Drape the pastry tops over the filled pies, pressing down the edges with a fork to seal them. Make a small slit in the center to allow steam to escape during baking.

5. Bake

   • Bake the pies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crisp. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake.

6. Cool And Serve

   • Once baked, remove the pies from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
   • Sprinkle with caster sugar for a glistening, sweet finish.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

To ensure your Delia Smith’s Mince Pies turn out perfect, here are some tips and tricks:

• Chill the dough: This is a crucial step. Chilling the pastry before rolling it out ensures that the butter stays solid, which in turn helps to create a crumbly, melt-in-the-mouth texture.
• Don’t overwork the dough: Overworking the dough can result in tough pastry. Handle it gently and only work it until it comes together.
• Customize your filling: If you’re not a fan of traditional mincemeat, feel free to customize it by adding chopped nuts, orange zest, or a splash of your favorite liqueur.
• Golden finish: Brush the tops of the pies with a little beaten egg before baking to achieve a beautiful golden color.

Delia Smith’s Mince Pies are a delightful treat for any occasion, especially during the Christmas season. With their perfectly flaky pastry and fragrant mincemeat filling, they offer a comforting, festive touch to your dessert table.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and ensures delicious results every time. By following the step-by-step instructions and incorporating the helpful tips provided, you’ll master the art of making these classic British mince pies and delight your friends and family with every bite.

Simple Twists On Delia Smith’s Mince Pies Recipe

Delia Smith’s classic mince pie recipe is beloved by many for its simplicity and deliciousness. However, there’s always room for a little creativity in the kitchen. Here are a few twists that can elevate your mince pies and give them a new, delightful edge.

1. Citrus Zest

To add a fresh zing to the traditional recipe, consider mixing some zest from oranges, lemons, or even clementines into the pastry or mincemeat filling. This brightens the flavor profile and balances out the richness of the mincemeat.

2. Nutty Additions

Add a handful of chopped almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios into the mincemeat mix. This not only introduces an exciting texture but also a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet, spiced filling. Roasted nuts add a nice contrast to the otherwise soft pie.

3. Spiced Up Pastry

While Delia’s recipe typically uses a buttery shortcrust pastry, you can experiment by adding a touch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or even ginger to the pastry dough itself. These warm spices will harmonize wonderfully with the mincemeat and give your pies an extra depth of flavor.

4. Boozy Twist

For an adult version of these festive treats, you can soak the dried fruits in your favorite liqueur, such as brandy, dark rum, or even spiced rum. This infusion will enhance the flavor of the mincemeat, adding a slightly boozy warmth that’s perfect for winter festivities.

5. Miniature Variations

Instead of the standard size, why not make tiny, bite-sized mince pies for a fun twist?

These mini pies are perfect for a party or afternoon tea, and they offer a delicious little indulgence without the guilt of a larger portion. Simply reduce the baking time slightly and use a smaller cutter.

6. Vegan Or Dairy-Free Alternative

If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, try making Delia’s mincemeat using plant-based butter or margarine in place of dairy butter. For a truly vegan version, you can also replace any egg wash with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.

These simple twists can help you tailor Delia Smith’s mince pie recipe to your own tastes or dietary needs, while keeping the essence of the beloved holiday treat intact.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

If you’re fortunate enough to have any leftover mince pies (a rare occurrence, we know!), it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness and flavor.

1. Room Temperature Storage (Short-Term)

If you plan to eat the leftovers within a couple of days, store the mince pies in an airtight container at room temperature. This prevents them from becoming soggy or losing their crisp texture.

A tin or a plastic storage box works great for this purpose. The pies should stay fresh for up to 2-3 days.

2. Refrigeration (Medium-Term)

For longer storage, you can refrigerate the pies. Wrap them individually in foil or place them in an airtight container.

This method will keep them fresh for about 5-7 days. Keep in mind that refrigeration can make the pastry lose some of its crispness, but they will still be perfectly delicious.

3. Freezing (Long-Term)

If you’ve baked a large batch and need to save them for later, freezing is the best option. To freeze, let the mince pies cool completely.

Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.

When stored this way, they’ll last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them into a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

For best results, it’s recommended to avoid freezing the pies if they’ve already been cut into or partially eaten, as the texture might not hold up as well upon reheating.

What To Eat With Delia Smith’s Mince Pies?

Mince pies are rich, spiced, and sweet, so pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside your delicious pies.

1. Clotted Cream Or Whipped Cream

Nothing beats a dollop of thick, indulgent clotted cream or freshly whipped cream on the side of a mince pie. The creaminess complements the warm spices in the pie and balances the sweetness. If you want something lighter, a splash of double cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also do the trick.

2. Hot Beverages

Mince pies are often enjoyed with a warming drink, perfect for those chilly winter days. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea is a classic choice.

For something a bit more festive, serve the pies with mulled wine, a spiced cider, or even hot chocolate. The warmth of these beverages blends beautifully with the flavors of the mincemeat.

3. Cheese Board

For a savory twist, a selection of cheeses pairs wonderfully with mince pies. Try soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert, or go for a sharp cheddar to balance the sweetness of the pies. Some people enjoy pairing their pies with a wedge of Stilton or blue cheese, which provides an intense flavor contrast.

4. Seasonal Fruits And Nuts

Serve the pies with a side of fresh fruits like pomegranate seeds, slices of orange, or crisp apple slices. Dried fruits such as figs, dates, or apricots also echo the rich flavors of the mincemeat. Toasted nuts, like almonds or pecans, add a crunchy texture that enhances the overall eating experience.

Conclusion

Delia Smith’s mince pies are a timeless holiday treat that can be easily adapted to suit personal preferences. Whether you’re experimenting with flavor twists, storing leftovers for future indulgence, or pairing your pies with delicious accompaniments, these small touches can elevate an already perfect recipe into something even more delightful. Enjoying mince pies, especially when shared with loved ones, is one of those simple pleasures that makes the holiday season feel even more special.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Delia Smith’s Mince Pies Recipe?

Delia Smith’s mince pies recipe requires a combination of simple, high-quality ingredients. The pastry is made with plain flour, butter, and a little water to bring it together.

The filling is a rich mincemeat mixture that includes dried fruits like raisins, sultanas, and currants, mixed with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. A dash of brandy or rum adds depth to the flavor. You will also need caster sugar for sweetening the pastry and a bit of flour for dusting.

How Do You Make The Perfect Shortcrust Pastry For Delia Smith’s Mince Pies?

To make the perfect shortcrust pastry for Delia Smith’s mince pies, begin by sieving the flour and salt together, then cutting cold butter into small cubes and rubbing it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add a tablespoon or two of cold water to bring the dough together, then wrap it in cling film and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.

This helps ensure a crisp and tender pastry. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 3mm thickness and cut out rounds for the base and tops of your mince pies.

Can I Make Delia Smith’s Mince Pies In Advance And Freeze Them?

Yes, Delia Smith’s mince pies can be made in advance and frozen. You can freeze the unbaked mince pies either before or after adding the filling.

Simply assemble the pies and place them on a baking tray in the freezer until they are firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw them; simply bake straight from frozen, but be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.