Dessert

Fruity Mincemeat with Almonds Recipe

BySophie Carsel December 8, 2025December 8, 2025

Introduction

This fruity mincemeat with almonds is a vibrant twist on a traditional favorite, combining tart apples and zesty citrus with warm spices and rich dried fruits. Perfect for holiday desserts or spreading on toast, it brings a burst of flavor and a hint of brandy warmth in every bite.

The image shows a top view of a white marbled surface with dough rolled out on the left side, featuring a star shape cut out. On the right side, there is a white jar filled with a mix of dried fruits and nuts like raisins, almond slivers, and other bits in various brown, red, and black colors. The jar has a metal clasp lid that is open and tilted to the side. The dough has a smooth pale yellow texture with some flour dusted around it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 Bramley apples, peeled, cored and grated
350g light muscovado sugar
Zest and juice of 1 orange
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp allspice
100g dried cranberries
100g sultanas
100g raisins
100g currants
100ml brandy
85g flaked almonds
100g shredded suet or light shredded vegetable suet

Instructions

Step 1: In a large saucepan, combine the grated apples along with their juices, light muscovado sugar, orange zest and juice, and lemon zest and juice. Gently bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has fully dissolved.
Step 2: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, dried cranberries, sultanas, raisins, currants, and brandy. Set the mixture aside to cool completely.
Step 3: Once cooled, fold in the flaked almonds and shredded suet until well combined.
Step 4: Spoon the mincemeat into sterilised jars or freezer-safe containers, sealing them tightly. Store in the fridge for up to 3 months or freeze for up to 6 months.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, simply omit the almonds or substitute with chopped dried apricots for added texture.
Using Bramley apples provides the best tartness, but you can substitute with other firm cooking apples if needed.
Add a splash of vanilla extract for a sweeter aroma.
Make sure to sterilise your jars properly to extend shelf life and maintain freshness.

Storage

Store your fruity mincemeat in airtight sterilised jars in the fridge for up to 3 months. For longer storage, freeze in suitable containers for up to 6 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. This mincemeat can be served cold or gently warmed to enhance the flavors.

How to Serve

The image shows a round glass jar filled with a mix of granola ingredients like nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, seen from above. To the left of the jar, there is rolled-out dough on a white marbled surface, with a star shape cut out from it, revealing the background. The dough is light beige, smooth, and slightly dusted with flour near the edges. The jar has a metal clasp and is tilted so the contents are clearly visible with varied colors like brown, black, and tan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use suet alternatives in this recipe?

Yes, light shredded vegetable suet works well as a vegetarian substitute and maintains the traditional texture. You can also use coconut oil as a different alternative but it will alter the flavor slightly.

Is it necessary to add brandy?

Brandy adds depth and helps preserve the mincemeat, but you can omit it if preferred. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute with apple juice or a splash of orange juice.