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    Home » Gluten Free » Homemade Fruit Mince

    Homemade Fruit Mince

    Published: Oct 10, 2021 by Alexandra Cook

    For the full recipe including quantities and method, click the "jump to recipe" button, or scroll through and read our helpful tips along the way.

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    This Gluten-Free Homemade Fruit Mince will be a welcome addition to your festive baking, and you will be delighted that it is so easy to make. If you have not previously made your own Fruit Mince, I encourage you to do so. It is full of vibrant flavour and is the perfect addition to our Fruit Mince Pies!

    Spoon with fruit mince above jar.
    Jump to:
    • Why we love this recipe:
    • Ingredients in this recipe:
    • Step by step instructions:
    • Tips for success and FAQs:
    • More delicious recipes for you to try:
    • Homemade Fruit Mince

    Why we love this recipe:

    The Homemade Fruit Mince can be used in many ways. Delicious in Fruit Mince Pies, you will find that there are many other ways to use it. And as with everything we make ourselves, we control the quality of the ingredients.

    We love that:

    • It is quickly and easily made.
    • You can customise the fruit mince to suit your taste – choose fruit that you enjoy, add nuts if you wish.
    • The aromatic spices are reminiscent of Christmas.
    • It will keep for months in a jar in the fridge.
    • There are many ways to enjoy it.
    • You can easily double or triple the recipe.

    Ingredients in this recipe:

    Ingredients in this recipe on a white background.

    Please see the recipe card further along in the post for exact quantities of ingredients and the full method.

    Mixed dried fruit – use a mixture as in the recipe or adjust fruit to suit your taste.

    Granny Smith apple – adds moisture and flavour.

    Light brown sugar – adds slightly caramelized sweetness.

    Orange rind and juice – for a bright, citrus note.

    Water – I use filtered water.

    Ground mixed spice and cinnamon – for flavour and fragrance.

    Butter – to enrich the fruit mince.

    Brandy – optional. You can use another alcohol or replace it with orange juice.

    Step by step instructions:

    Steps 1-4 of preparing this recipe in a photo collage - the ingredients for the mince in a saucepan, stirring the mixture, adding the butter and adding the brandy to the cooked fruit.
    Steps 5-6 of preparing this recipe in a photo collage - the fruit mince in a jar, and a spoon lifting up the cooked mince from the jar.
    1. In a medium-size saucepan, combine the dried fruit, grated apple, brown sugar, orange rind, orange juice, water, mixed spice and cinnamon.
    2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar, then simmer gently for 8 – 10 minutes until most of the liquid has evaporated.
    3. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter. Set aside to cool.
    4. When cool, add the brandy (if using), stir to combine.
    5. Place into an airtight, sterilised jar and store in the refrigerator, ideally for a week before using.
    6. The fruit mince can also be used straight away – although it won’t have the depth of flavour, it will still be delicious.
    Overhead shot of jar of mince, with some string tied around the jar.

    Tips for success and FAQs:

    As always, you will get the best result if you use good quality, fresh ingredients.

    Before using, turn the mixture into a bowl and stir well to thoroughly combine the ingredients.

    For the best flavour, you need to ensure that the spice mixture you use is fresh. Over time, spice mixtures lose their potency and their flavours become dull.

    To sterilise your jar, preheat your oven to 130 Degrees C (270F). Place a clean jar in the oven for at least 20 minutes, then remove and allow to cool before filling with your Fruit Mince.

    Can I prepare the Gluten-Free Fruit Mince ahead of time?

    Yes, ideally, you should make it at least one week in advance to allow the flavours to develop but it will still be delicious even if you don’t have time to do that.

    How long will the Homemade Fruit Mince last?

    Store it in a sterilised jar, with a tight-fitting lid, in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

    What is mixed spice?

    Sometimes called pudding spice, this is a blend of sweet spices which adds fragrant warmth to cakes, puddings and biscuits. Generally, it will contain a combination of spices such as finely ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves and allspice.

    What is a good substitute for mixed spice?

    Pumpkin Pie Spice Mix is a good alternative.

    What is the best pastry to use for making mince pies with this Homemade Fruit Mince?

    We love to use our Gluten-Free Shortcrust Pastry.

    Spoon dipping into jar of fruit mince.

    More delicious recipes for you to try:

    You can find many more recipes to try in our collection of Gluten-Free Recipes.

    There are many ways in which to use this traditional Fruit Mince. It is so simple to make, and once you have made a batch you will discover there are many ways in which to use it. Use some to serve with our Oat Yoghurt Pancakes, add a dollop to some yoghurt, or warm some to serve over Vanilla Ice Cream – it is so delicious.

    Alex xx

    Overhead shot of jar of mince, with some string tied around the jar.

    Homemade Fruit Mince

    This Gluten-Free Homemade Fruit Mince will be a welcome addition to your festive baking, and you will be delighted that it is so easy to make. If you have not previously made your own Fruit Mince, I encourage you to do so. It is full of vibrant flavour and is the perfect addition to our Fruit Mince Pies!
    4.93 from 110 votes
    Print Pin Review
    Course: Dessert
    Cuisine: British
    Prep Time: 15 minutes
    Cook Time: 15 minutes
    Chill Time (optional): 7 days
    Total Time: 7 days 30 minutes
    Servings: 2 cups
    Calories: 485kcal
    Author: Alexandra Cook – It’s Not Complicated Recipes

    Ingredients

    • 1 ½ cups (240 g) mixed dried fruit See Notes 1 and 2
    • 1 medium Granny Smith apple – peeled, cored and grated
    • ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar
    • 2 teaspoon orange rind – finely zested See Note 3
    • 2 tablespoon orange juice – freshly squeezed See Note 4
    • 2 tablespoon water See Note 4
    • 2 teaspoon mixed spice See Note 5
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 2 tablespoon (40 g) unsalted butter
    • 2 tablespoon brandy – or additional orange juice See Notes 4 and 6

    Recipe Measurements:

    For accuracy, we recommend weighing your ingredients. This will produce the best results.

    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Instructions

    • In a medium-size saucepan, combine the dried fruit, grated apple, brown sugar, orange rind, orange juice, water, mixed spice and cinnamon.
    • Over medium heat, and stirring to dissolve the sugar, bring the mixture to a boil and simmer gently for 8–10 minutes until most of the liquid has evaporated.
    • Remove from the heat and stir in the butter. Set aside to cool.
    • When cool, add the brandy, if using, or additional orange juice and stir.
    • Place into a sterilised glass jar and store in the refrigerator. (See Note 7.) Ideally, store it for a week before using it. You can make it up to 6 months in advance.

    Video

    Notes

    1. For accuracy, it is best to weigh your ingredients.
    2. Use a combination of dried fruit of your choice. You could also include some slivered almonds.
    3. Use just the orange zest and avoid grating the bitter, white pith.
    4. In Australia, the tablespoon is 20 ml or 4 teaspoons. In many other countries, the tablespoon is 15 ml or 3 teaspoons. Please adjust the measurement if necessary.
    5. If you are not able to find mixed spice, Pumpkin Spice Mix is a good alternative.
    6. Brandy is optional. If you prefer, you could use rum, port, whisky or Cointreau. Alternatively, for alcohol-free, use extra orange juice instead.
    7. To sterilise your jar, preheat your oven to 130 Degrees C (270F). Place a clean jar in the oven for at least 20 minutes, then remove and allow to cool before filling with your Fruit Mince.
    8. Please note, the nutritional information is based on one cup of this recipe. The nutritional information is an estimate only.

    Nutrition Estimate:

    Calories: 485kcal | Carbohydrates: 90g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 23mg | Potassium: 434mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 79g | Calcium: 132mg | Iron: 2mg
    Tried this Recipe? Please rate and leave a comment!
    Nutritional Disclaimer:

    The nutritional information is an estimate only, and is derived from online calculators. For accurate results, we recommend calculating the nutritional information based on the ingredients and brands you use.

    « Gluten-Free Shortcrust Pastry
    Gluten-Free Fruit Mince Pies »
    677 shares

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Jenny

      December 28, 2022 at 12:12 pm

      5 stars
      This smells like Christmas in a jar! I just finished making this fruit mince, and my home smells so amazing. The flavor is spot on and just what I’d expect from fruit mince. I used raisins, currants, and blueberries for the dried fruit and followed your pumpkin spice mix for the mixed spice. I made a bit more so I can add some to my bread pudding tomorrow. Happy Christmas Alex!

      Reply
      • Alexandra

        December 30, 2022 at 6:47 pm

        Hi Jenny, thank you for your fantastic feedback on the Fruit Mince. I am so pleased that you have enjoyed it and appreciate that you took the time to let me know. 🙂

        Reply
    2. Liz

      December 23, 2022 at 11:33 am

      I’ve just dumped everything into the pot to simmer, when I realised I was meant to add the butter and brandy afterwards! I’m not worried about the alcohol burning off, however I am wondering if the product will still be OK to use?

      Reply
      • Alexandra

        December 23, 2022 at 12:35 pm

        Hi Liz, I’m sure it will be fine. As you say, the alcohol may burn off a little but it will still have the flavour. I hope you enjoy it. 🙂

        Reply
    3. Marie Treloar

      December 20, 2022 at 2:29 pm

      5 stars
      Thank you so much for this fantastic recipe, I have been using the same fruit mince for the last 50 years , from the supermarket! This year, with all the shortages we have had in the shops, I had to go without! BUT, I found you ! I am so grateful that I did. I hope I will be using your recipe for many more years. I will have to pass it on to my daughter. Can’t wait to try some of your other recipes. Thank you so much.
      Have a great Christmas.
      From Marie

      Reply
      • Alexandra

        December 23, 2022 at 12:57 pm

        Thank you, Marie, for your lovely comment. So thrilled to hear that you have enjoyed the mince, and that you’ll be passing the recipe on to your daughter. Merry Christmas!

        Reply
    4. Lesley

      December 08, 2022 at 10:55 am

      Hi Alexandra!
      I have just made the fruit mince and it smells divine.
      Can’t wait till next week to make the pies. I will never buy
      from the store ever again.Thanks for a great recipe.

      Reply
      • Alexandra

        December 12, 2022 at 4:05 pm

        Hi Lesley, thank you so much for your lovely comments on the Fruit Mince. I appreciate that you took the time to let me know. 🙂

        Reply
    5. Melinda

      October 15, 2021 at 5:30 am

      5 stars
      Wow not only is the flavor of this fruit mince amazing, it made my house smell like heaven! The spices are so warming and reminds me of the holidays! I’m planning on making a big batch of these and gifting it for Christmas. Thank you so much!

      Reply
      • Alexandra

        October 16, 2021 at 4:28 pm

        Hello Melinda, thank you for your fantastic feedback regarding the Fruit Mince. I am delighted that you enjoy it and plan to make some as gifts – what a great idea. 🙂

        Reply
    6. Geetanjali Tung

      October 14, 2021 at 3:55 pm

      5 stars
      This is so handy… It makes baking so easy. A must for everyone. Thanks for sharing!

      Reply
      • Alexandra

        October 16, 2021 at 4:32 pm

        Hello Geetanjali, thank you for your comments on the Fruit Mince, I am so pleased that you like it. 🙂

        Reply
    7. Marcellina

      October 11, 2021 at 9:10 pm

      5 stars
      I’ve never made a really good fruit mince but I think this recipe is better than every other recipe I’ve made – just the right amount of spice and perfect sweetness! Excellent!

      Reply
      • Alexandra

        October 13, 2021 at 2:28 pm

        Hi Marcellina, I am so pleased that you like our recipe for Fruit Mince. Thank you for letting me know. 🙂

        Reply
    8. Jean

      October 11, 2021 at 7:42 pm

      5 stars
      so yum! what a great recipe to add into my baking, instead of buying outside. Thanks for this.

      Reply
      • Alexandra

        October 13, 2021 at 2:30 pm

        Hello Jean, I am so pleased to hear that you enjoy our recipe for Homemade Fruit Mince and appreciate that you took the time to let me know. 🙂

        Reply
      • Kim

        August 16, 2022 at 3:18 pm

        Hi!
        If im making this 4 months in advance and sterilising/sealing it in jars does it still need refrigeration for that time? Thanks. Made this before but only a week in advance. Look forward to see how flavour develops with a longer sitting time.

        Reply
        • Alexandra

          August 17, 2022 at 6:09 pm

          Hi Kim, even after sterilising the jars, I recommend that you keep the Fruit Mince in the fridge. It does keep well and the flavours develop. It just needs a stir before using. I hope you enjoy it. 🙂

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    Hello!

    I’m Alex.

    I am a full-time blogger, passionate foodie and writer who loves to travel.

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