Spiced Autumn Mincemeat Pie is a delightful twist on the classic pie, perfect for those cozy fall evenings. This recipe combines rich, spiced fruit filling with a buttery crust, making it a warm and comforting treat that's sure to impress.
Mixed dried fruits like raisins, currants, and sultanas add natural sweetness and texture to the pie. Apples provide a juicy freshness that complements the dried fruits. Candied ginger introduces a spicy, sweet kick that enhances the overall flavor profile. Brown sugar sweetens the mixture with its deep, molasses-like flavor. Brandy infuses the filling with a rich, boozy undertone. Apple cider adds a touch of tartness and moisture. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves are the quintessential spices that make this pie distinctly autumnal. Orange zest and lemon zest provide a burst of citrusy brightness. Finally, butter contributes to the richness and helps meld all the flavors together.
This pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, serve it warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce. It's also delightful alongside a spiced chai tea or a glass of mulled wine.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it's ready when you need it. In a large pot, combine your mixed dried fruits, apples, candied ginger, brown sugar, brandy, apple cider, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, orange zest, and lemon zest. Give it a good stir and set the pot over medium heat. You'll want to cook this mixture until it becomes thick and sticky, which should take about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once your mixture is nice and thick, take it off the heat and add in the butter. Stir until it's melted and fully incorporated. Now, grab your pre-made pie crusts. Roll them out if needed, and line a 9-inch pie dish with one of the crusts. Pour your fruit mixture into this crust, spreading it evenly.
Cover the filling with the second pie crust. Trim any excess dough from the edges and crimp them together to seal. Use a sharp knife to cut small slits in the top crust, which will allow steam to escape while baking. Brush the top with beaten egg for a glossy finish.
Place your pie in the oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is a beautiful golden brown. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
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