They’re a staunchly British sweet pastry that have been synonymous with the festive season for, well, as long as anyone can remember. The best mince pies are the perfect treat to keep in the cupboard for any impromptu visitors during the Christmas period, and a no-fuss addition at drinks parties with a glass of mulled wine.
Though the name confuses practically everyone (including many of us Brits), they're no longer filled with actual meat, as they were until around the 19th century. Now the festive version of mince meat refers to a sweet mixture of dried fruits like sultanas, raisins, orange peel, apples, and festive spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves, which is often steeped in brandy or rum.
