What are minced pies made of?

Minced pies are traditionally made with a shortcrust pastry filled with a mixture of:

* Suet or butter for richness

* Dried fruits such as raisins, currants, sultanas, and mixed peel

* Chopped apples for sweetness and texture

* Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and mixed spice

* Brandy or other alcohol (optional) for flavor

The filling is then baked in small, individual pastry cases. They are often topped with a lattice crust or a star-shaped pastry.

While the classic ingredients remain, modern variations often incorporate other flavors like cranberries, almonds, and even chocolate.