Score a 2cm/¾in rectangular border into the pastry using a sharp knife. Spoon the mincemeat on top and spread evenly, taking care not to go over the border. Place the apple slices fanned out on ...
Mincemeat often requires an overnight soak in the alcohol, often brandy, to plump up the dried fruit. Some recipes require a cooking stage, to heat the mincemeat through and help to seal the jars.
Put into sterilized jars, cover and leave to mature for 2 weeks before using. This mincemeat will keep for two to three years in a cool, airy place. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4.
These little mouthfuls are a play on the jam drop. Grated apple will also moisten and add flavour to the mincemeat. Add 1-2 Tbsp of brandy to the mincemeat if you are using store bought.
BBC Good Food's recipe for "boozy mincemeat" makes 3.5kg or 7lb of the festive filling. If we copy the ratios of Sainsbury's deep-filled mince pies, each one weighs 60g and the filling accounts ...