As the scent of spices and sweetness wafts through your kitchen, it’s hard not to feel a wave of nostalgia for the holiday season. These Easy Frangipane Topped Mince Pies take a classic British dessert and elevate it with a delightful almond frangipane topping, creating a treat that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The combination of a flaky shortcrust base with a rich mincemeat filling will have everyone reaching for seconds at your festive gatherings. Not only are these pies surprisingly simple to whip up, but they’re also family-friendly, making them perfect for kids and adults alike. So, are you ready to bring a touch of homemade magic to your holiday table with these irresistible little bites?
Why Try Frangipane Topped Mince Pies?
Unforgettable Flavor: The luscious almond frangipane topping paired with sweet, spiced mincemeat creates an unforgettable blend of tastes that will leave you craving more.
Festive Aesthetics: These pies not only taste wonderful but also look spectacular, adding a charming touch to your holiday spread.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward instructions, you don’t have to be a pastry chef to impress guests, making them a perfect choice for busy holiday schedules.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize these pies with different nuts or citrus zest, letting your creativity shine in the kitchen! Plus, if you’re a fan of easy desserts, look no further than these easy festive desserts.
Crowd-Pleaser: These mini pies are a guaranteed hit at any gathering, delighting both kids and adults while effortlessly elevating your seasonal celebrations.
Frangipane Topped Mince Pie Ingredients
For the Pastry
- Plain Flour – Essential for structure; substitute with gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free option.
- Butter – Provides richness and flakiness to the pastry; use vegetable shortening for a dairy-free alternative.
- Cold Water – Helps bind the pastry; adjust the amount as required for the perfect dough consistency.
For the Filling
- Good Quality Mincemeat – The star of the pie; opt for a flavorful store-bought version to save time.
For the Frangipane
- Softened Butter – Ensures creaminess in the frangipane; no substitutes recommended for the best texture.
- Caster Sugar – Adds the right level of sweetness; granulated sugar can be used, but the texture may differ.
- Medium Egg – Acts as a binding agent; consider using a flax egg or chia egg for a vegan version.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; feel free to omit for a more traditional taste.
- Ground Almonds (Almond Flour) – The key ingredient for the frangipane; can be swapped with ground hazelnuts for an interesting twist.
For the Topping
- Flaked Almonds – Provides texture and visual appeal; can be replaced with chopped nuts or left out if desired.
- Icing Sugar – Optional for dusting, adding a pretty touch before serving your Frangipane Topped Mince Pies.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Frangipane Topped Mince Pies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) while you prepare the pastry. Grease a 12-hole cupcake tray with butter or cooking spray to ensure easy removal of your delicious Frangipane Topped Mince Pies later. This initial step is crucial for achieving that lovely golden-brown crust.
Step 2: Make the Pastry Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine plain flour and cubed butter. Rub the mixture together using your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Gradually add cold water, stirring until a soft dough forms. Wrap the dough in cling film and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Prepare the Frangipane Filling
While the pastry chills, cream together softened butter and caster sugar in a separate bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take around 4-5 minutes using a hand mixer. Next, incorporate the medium egg, vanilla extract, and ground almonds, mixing until smooth and fully combined to create your luxurious frangipane.
Step 4: Roll Out the Pastry
After chilling, remove the pastry from the fridge and roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 3mm thick. Using a round cutter, cut out circles that are slightly larger than your cupcake tray holes. Carefully press each circle into the greased tray, ensuring there are no air pockets underneath for a perfect base in your Frangipane Topped Mince Pies.
Step 5: Fill the Pastry Cases
Spoon a generous amount of good quality mincemeat into each pastry case, filling them about three-quarters full to allow space for the frangipane topping. Follow by dolloping the prepared frangipane on top of the mincemeat, ensuring an even distribution. This layering process promises a delightful blend of flavors in every bite.
Step 6: Add the Topping
Sprinkle flaked almonds generously over each frangipane topping for added texture and visual appeal. This step not only enhances the pies’ appearance but also provides a nutty crunch that complements the sweetness of the mincemeat.
Step 7: Bake the Pies
Place the filled cupcake tray into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; they’re ready when the frangipane is golden brown and springs back gently when pressed. The enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen will signal that your Frangipane Topped Mince Pies are almost done!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the pies cool for about 10 minutes. This allows them to set properly before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cool, dust with icing sugar for a beautiful finishing touch before serving. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade Frangipane Topped Mince Pies!
Frangipane Topped Mince Pies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your frangipane topped mince pies uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a lighter option without forfeiting taste.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative instead of regular butter to cater to dietary needs.
- Nut-Free: Replace ground almonds with sunflower seed flour for a nut-free frangipane that’s equally scrumptious.
- Fruity Flavor: Add a spoonful of orange or lemon zest to the mincemeat to brighten the flavor profile. The citrus zest will enhance the sweetness beautifully!
- Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate chocolate chips into the frangipane for a sweet and indulgent treat anyone will adore. Pair this with freshly whipped cream for a heavenly dessert experience!
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the frangipane mixture for a warm, cozy spiciness that screams festive cheer.
- Mini Mincemeat Pies: Consider making mini versions in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized delights. The perfect portion for sharing with family and friends!
- Cranberry Chutney: Swap traditional mincemeat with cranberry chutney for a tart yet sweet twist that’s innovative and refreshing. This variation is sure to wow guests at your holiday gathering.
Note: If you’re looking for more mouthwatering ideas, check out how to create these easy festive desserts that everyone will love!
What to Serve with Easy Frangipane Topped Mince Pies
Indulge in a delightful spread that perfectly complements these charming little pies, bringing warmth and joy to your festive table.
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Creamy Custard: This rich, velvety sauce enhances the sweetness of the pies, offering a comforting contrast that feels like a warm hug.
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Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened, airy whipped cream adds a cloud-like softness that balances the spiced filling and nutty topping beautifully.
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Clementine Segments: Fresh, juicy citrus slices bring a vibrant pop of brightness, cutting through the richness and adding a refreshing zing.
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Mulled Wine: The aromatic spices in mulled wine create a cozy pairing, inviting friends and family to gather around the table for festive cheer.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts into the warm pies, creating an irresistible marriage of flavors that’s simply heavenly.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling some warm chocolate sauce can add a touch of indulgence, turning this classic dessert into a decadent chocolate lover’s dream.
These delightful pairings not only elevate your frangipane topped mince pies but also create an inviting atmosphere for unforgettable holiday memories!
Expert Tips for Frangipane Topped Mince Pies
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Pastry Perfection: Ensure the pastry isn’t overworked; this keeps it flaky and tender. Work the dough just until combined for best results.
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Oven Variability: Baking times may vary based on your oven’s calibration. Always start checking for doneness a few minutes early to prevent burning.
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Mincemeat Matters: Use high-quality mincemeat for rich flavor. A bland filling can dull the delightful taste of your Frangipane Topped Mince Pies.
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Chill Out: Chilling the pastry dough is crucial. It helps the butter solidify, ensuring a flakier texture in the final bake.
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Adjust Sweetness: Taste your frangipane mix before baking. If you prefer a sweeter pie, feel free to adjust the sugar to your liking!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Frangipane Topped Mince Pies are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during the festive rush! You can prepare the pastry dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. For even more convenience, the pies can be assembled (filled with mincemeat and frangipane) and then stored in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking. Just ensure that they’re tightly covered to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake the pies directly from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors with minimal effort, making your holiday celebrations stress-free!
How to Store and Freeze Frangipane Topped Mince Pies
Room Temperature: Store the pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their delicious flavor and texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer life for your pies, refrigerate them for up to two weeks; just ensure they’re well-sealed to avoid drying out.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze your frangipane topped mince pies in airtight containers for up to six months. Allow them to cool completely before freezing.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen pies, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
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Frangipane Topped Mince Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my mince pies?
Absolutely! When choosing mincemeat, look for good quality brands that boast rich flavors and quality fruits. The butter for your pastry should be cold and unsalted for the best results. Also, ensure your ground almonds are fresh to maintain that lovely almond flavor in your frangipane.
How should I store my Frangipane Topped Mince Pies, and how long do they last?
You can store your pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like to keep them longer, storing them in the fridge is a good option for up to two weeks. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze Frangipane Topped Mince Pies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your mince pies, allow them to cool completely first. Then, place them in airtight containers, leaving a little space between each pie to avoid sticking. They can be frozen for up to six months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my pastry becomes tough?
The more the merrier for flakiness! If your pastry becomes tough, it’s likely due to overworking the dough. Make sure to handle it gently and just until combined. Also, chilling the dough before rolling it out helps relax the gluten, preventing toughness.
Are these mince pies suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, indeed! You can make these Frangipane Topped Mince Pies vegan by substituting the medium egg for a flax egg or chia egg. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes until gel-like, and use it in place of the egg. Enjoy your delightful treat!
Frangipane Topped Mince Pies for a Festive Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 12-hole cupcake tray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine plain flour and cubed butter. Rub together until it resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add cold water to form a soft dough. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Cream together softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate medium egg, vanilla extract, and ground almonds until smooth.
- Roll out the pastry on a floured surface until about 3mm thick. Cut out circles larger than the cupcake tray holes and press into the tray.
- Fill each pastry case with mincemeat, then dollop the frangipane on top, ensuring even distribution.
- Sprinkle flaked almonds over the frangipane topping.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and springs back when pressed.
- Cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with icing sugar before serving.
