Mincemeat has been a holiday tradition for centuries, filling festive pies, tarts, and pastries with rich, spiced fruit flavor. While classic versions require hours of careful stovetop cooking, this Slow Cooker Mincemeat Recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing taste. The result is a beautifully fragrant mixture of apples, dried fruits, spices, and a splash of brandy—perfect for the holiday season or any time you want a nostalgic, warming treat.
Ingredients
- 4 chopped and cored apples
- 1 cup shredded beef or vegetarian suet
- 1 2/3 cups dark muscovado sugar
- 2/3 cup sliced almonds
- 7 cups mixed dried fruit (ideally with cranberries, raisins, currants, etc.)
- 1 tablespoon allspice
- 7 ounces brandy (or another 40% spirit such as sherry, rum, or amaretto)
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Combine ingredients
In the slow cooker, add all ingredients except brandy. Stir thoroughly, cover, and let the mixture sit overnight if possible. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully. - Slow cook
Stir again before cooking. Cook on low for 6 hours (or high for 3 hours), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. - Cool and enrich
Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Stir from time to time to prevent the suet or fat from separating. When fully cooled, stir in the brandy. - Jar and store
Spoon the mincemeat into sterilized jars while still fresh. If using jars with seal buttons, you should see them depress within a day, indicating a good seal.
Storage
Your homemade mincemeat can be enjoyed immediately, but it continues to improve as the flavors deepen over time. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 2 years. Once opened, refrigerate and use within a few weeks.
Serving Ideas
- Classic Mince Pies: Spoon the mixture into pastry shells and bake until golden brown.
- Festive Tarts: Use as filling for puff pastry or shortcrust tartlets.
- Dessert Boost: Swirl a spoonful into vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a delicious treat.
- Holiday Breakfast: Spread over warm toast or stir into oatmeal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This slow cooker method eliminates the need for stovetop monitoring and fills the house with warm, festive aromas. It’s a recipe rooted in tradition but updated for modern kitchens, making it both convenient and indulgent. Whether you’re preparing for Christmas or simply craving something cozy and spiced, this Slow Cooker Mincemeat is a recipe worth keeping in your collection.