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–+ servings
Handwritten recipe for Mince Meat
Mince meat is a rich, spiced filling traditionally used in holiday pies and pastries, especially popular in British and early American cuisine. Originally made with meat, suet, dried fruits, and warm spices, the recipe evolved into a sweet, meatless dessert staple by the 19th century. This vintage version retains meat and includes classic mix-ins like raisins, currants, brown sugar, and cider for a deep, comforting flavor. It’s a beloved holiday favorite thanks to its unique texture and festive aroma.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American, British
Servings 8 cups
Calories 856 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb meat (likely beef, cooked and minced)
  • 1 lb raisins
  • ½ lb currants
  • ¼ lb citron (candied, chopped)
  • ½ lb suet or butter (finely chopped, or butter)
  • 1 tbsp salt (heaping)
  • 2 cups brown sugar
  • 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
  • 1 cup molasses
  • 3 cups coffee
  • 2 tbsp mixed spices (cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg)
  • 2 cups apples (mixed, chopped, as sweet as possible)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Meat

  • Cook the meat thoroughly and mince finely. Set aside.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • Mix raisins, currants, chopped citron, suet or butter, and chopped apples in a large bowl.

Step 3: Add Flavorings

  • Stir in salt, brown sugar, lemon zest and juice, molasses, and mixed spices.

Step 4: Simmer the Mixture

  • Transfer to a large pot. Add coffee and cook over low heat for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Cool and Store

  • Let the mixture cool completely. Store in airtight jars or containers. Use as filling for pies or tarts.

Tips

  • Add a splash of rum, brandy, or apple cider for deeper flavor.
  • Substitute butter for suet if desired (as the card allows).
  • Use dried cranberries in place of currants if unavailable.
  • Add diced dried apricots or figs for more texture.
  • For a sweeter mincemeat, increase brown sugar by ½ cup.
  • Add more spices (cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon) for a stronger holiday profile.
  • Replace coffee with apple cider for a fruitier finish.
  • Cook longer to thicken the mixture if using for hand pies.
  • Chill overnight to let flavors develop fully.
  • Freeze in portions for easy holiday baking.

Nutrition

Calories: 856kcalCarbohydrates: 142gProtein: 16gFat: 29gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 58mgSodium: 248mgPotassium: 1589mgFiber: 7gSugar: 91gVitamin A: 65IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 179mgIron: 5mg
Keyword ;lazy daisy cake, classic recipes, comfort food, heirloom meals, holiday baking, mince pie filling, pie filling, Raisins, vintage
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