Are you craving the warm, comforting flavors of a traditional mincemeat pie but short on time? This recipe is your answer! We'll create a delightful, homemade mincemeat pie using readily available jarred mincemeat, making this delicious dessert surprisingly quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 (25-ounce) jar mincemeat
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie plate.
Assemble the pie:
- Unroll one pie crust and carefully place it into the prepared pie plate. Gently press the crust into the bottom and up the sides of the plate. Trim any excess dough.
- Pour the entire jar of mincemeat into the pie crust. If you prefer a sweeter pie, sprinkle the optional tablespoon of sugar over the mincemeat.
- Unroll the second pie crust and either place it over the filling or cut it into strips for a lattice top. Crimp the edges to seal. Cut several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the top crust with the beaten egg. This will give your pie a beautiful golden-brown finish.
Bake to perfection:
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges loosely with aluminum foil.
- Remove from the oven and let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set properly.
Tips for Mincemeat Pie Perfection:
- For a richer flavor: Consider adding a tablespoon of brandy or rum to the mincemeat before baking.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mincemeat for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
- Flaky crust: To ensure a perfectly flaky crust, be sure to handle the dough gently and avoid over-working it.
- Serving suggestions: Serve your warm mincemeat pie with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Variations:
- Miniature pies: Use mini muffin tins and smaller portions of the recipe to create individual mincemeat pies, perfect for parties or gifts.
- Hand pies: Use the same filling and cut the dough into circles or squares to create delicious hand pies.
- Vegan option: Use a vegan pie crust and check that your jarred mincemeat is suitable for vegans.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50g
- Sugar: Approximately 25-30g
- Protein: Approximately 4-5g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
This easy mincemeat pie recipe is a fantastic example of delicious homemade cooking, perfect for adding a touch of festive cheer to any occasion. Enjoy the simple pleasure of creating something truly special in your kitchen. It’s a delightful addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, proving that even the most comforting dishes can be easy to make. It’s one of the best recipes for achieving that warm, home-baked goodness without spending hours in the kitchen.