Merry Mincemeaters
Merry Mincemeaters are delightful pastry treats filled with spiced mincemeat, topped with nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings and festive occasions. Crispy, flavorful, and easy to make.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, cinnamon, and salt together. Cream the butter and sugar together well.
- Blend in the unbeaten egg and almond extract. Beat well. Stir in dry ingredients.
- Mix thoroughly. Roll out half of the dough on a greased 10 x 8-inch baking sheet.
- Spread with 1 1/2 cups prepared mincemeat.
- Roll out remaining dough to 10 x 8 inches.
- Invert dough over mincemeat.
- Brush with reserved egg white, slightly beaten.
- Sprinkle with 1/2 cup nuts.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. If you don't have almond extract, vanilla extract is a suitable substitute. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar. If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling out.
Serving Suggestions
These treats pair beautifully with a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee. For an indulgent dessert, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also make a delightful addition to holiday cookie platters alongside other festive favorites like Christmas Grab Bag Bars.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Merry Mincemeaters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to regain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Merry Mincemeaters contains roughly 78 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 880mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of mincemeat?
Yes, you can use either homemade or store-bought mincemeat. Just ensure it's well-prepared and not too dry. For a variation, try using fruit preserves or apple pie filling if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
What can I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is crumbly, you can add a teaspoon of cold water or milk to help bind it together. Mix gently until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking it to keep the texture light.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just roll it out and assemble the mincemeaters when you're ready to bake. This makes them a perfect option for holiday gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).