Mincemeat with Dried Fruit

Bursting with the warm, spiced essence of the holidays, this homemade Mincemeat with Dried Fruit is a flavor-packed filling that's perfect for pies, tarts, or festive pastries. A rich medley of raisins, currants, dried apricots, and cranberries is blended with tart Granny Smith apple, citrus zest, and fresh juices for a sweet-tangy balance, while warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves add depth. A splash of brandy ties it all together, creating an aromatic preserve that only tastes better as it matures. Ready in just under an hour, this traditional yet alcohol-infused recipe is easy to make and can be stored for months—perfect for make-ahead holiday baking.

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup currants
• 0.5 cup dried apricots, finely chopped
• 0.5 cup dried cranberries
• 1 medium chopped apple (Granny Smith preferred)
• 0.5 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 0.25 cup brandy
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 0.25 teaspoon ground cloves
• 0.25 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1

Add the raisins, currants, dried apricots, dried cranberries, and chopped apple to a large saucepan.

Step 2

Stir in the brown sugar, butter, lemon zest, orange zest, lemon juice, and orange juice.

Step 3

Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the sugar to dissolve and the fruit to soften.

Step 4

Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt to the saucepan, mixing well to evenly coat the fruit in the spices.

Step 5

Lower the heat to medium-low and gently simmer the mixture for another 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6

Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes.

Step 7

Stir in the brandy while the mixture is still warm but not hot, ensuring it incorporates evenly.

Step 8

Transfer the mincemeat to sterilized jars and seal tightly. Allow it to mature for at least a few days before using for the best flavor.

Step 9

Store the jars in a cool, dark place or refrigerate. The mincemeat can be kept for up to three months.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	864.8 grams (864.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2111

Total Fat 26.00g	33%
Saturated Fat 14.40g	72%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.20g
Cholesterol 62mg	21%
Sodium 760mg	33%
Total Carbohydrate 459.00g	167%
Dietary Fiber 31.30g	112%
Total Sugars 384.90g
Protein 14.10g	28%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 406mg	31%
Iron 8mg	44%
Potassium 3780mg	80%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 11.0%

Protein: 2.7%

Carbs: 86.3%