Transform your holiday baking with "My Mincemeat," a luscious, homemade blend of dried fruits, warming spices, and a splash of brandy. This festive recipe combines plump raisins, currants, and tart cranberries with the zesty brightness of lemon and orange, creating a perfectly balanced filling for pies, tarts, and other festive treats. Grated apples and candied orange peel add texture and depth, while a cozy mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves infuses every bite with holiday warmth. Simmered to glossy perfection in just 10 minutes, this easy, make-ahead mincemeat gets even better with age, making it the ideal companion for seasonal desserts. Store in jars and enjoy a touch of Christmas magic whenever you bake!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the raisins, currants, dried cranberries, and candied orange peel.
Add the grated apples to the bowl, mixing well to evenly distribute.
Sprinkle in the dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. Stir thoroughly to coat the fruit mixture evenly with the sugar and spices.
Using your fingers or a wooden spoon, work the softened unsalted butter into the mixture until it is fully incorporated.
Grate the zest of one lemon and one orange directly over the mixture, then squeeze in the juice from both the lemon and the orange. Stir to combine.
Pour in the brandy and mix well to coat all of the ingredients.
Transfer the mixture to a large saucepan, set over medium heat, and cook gently for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes glossy.
Allow the mincemeat to cool completely, then transfer it into sterilized jars. Seal tightly and store in a cool, dark place.
The mincemeat improves in flavor as it ages—ideally, let it sit for at least 1 week before using in your favorite desserts!
Serving size | 1367.9 grams (1367.9g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 3692 |
Total Fat 84.30g | 108% |
Saturated Fat 52.00g | 260% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.20g | |
Cholesterol 218mg | 73% |
Sodium 266mg | 12% |
Total Carbohydrate 702.10g | 255% |
Dietary Fiber 42.80g | 153% |
Total Sugars 601.50g | |
Protein 17.00g | 34% |
Vitamin D 49IU | 247% |
Calcium 570mg | 44% |
Iron 10mg | 56% |
Potassium 4020mg | 86% |
Source of Calories