Fruit mince pies have become a cherished part of holiday celebrations worldwide, and their sweet, spiced aroma instantly brings back memories of cozy gatherings and festive cheer.
At Miami Bakehouse, we’re passionate about our award-winning fruit mince pies, crafted with the perfect blend of fruit, spices, and buttery shortbread shell. But where did this tradition start, and how did fruit mince pies become such an essential part of our Christmas celebrations?
The Origins of Fruit Mince Pies
The history of fruit mince pies dates to the Middle Ages when they were first known as “mincemeat” pies. Interestingly, these early versions weren’t exclusively sweet; instead, they combined minced meats with a mixture of fruits, spices, and vinegar or wine. The medieval palate enjoyed the sweet-and-savory combination, and these pies were a practical way to preserve meat through the colder months.
Over time, European trade routes introduced exotic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, which were prized additions to these pies. These spices also held symbolic significance, representing the gifts of the Wise Men in the Nativity story, which is how mincemeat pies became associated with Christmas.
A Shift to Sweetness
In the 16th and 17th centuries, the recipe for mince pies began to change. Sugar became more accessible, and the emphasis on fruit and sweetness took over. Gradually, the meat content disappeared, transforming mincemeat into the fruity, spiced filling we know today. By the Victorian era, mincemeat pies had asserted their place as a traditional holiday dessert in the United Kingdom.
Mince Pies and the Holidays
By the 19th century, mince pies had become a Christmas essential, often made in the small, individual sizes we know today. According to tradition, eating one mince pie each day over the 12 days of Christmas would bring good luck for the coming year. This was a particularly exciting superstition, and families enjoyed these pies as a part of their holiday ritual. Perhaps that explains why they are bundled by the half dozen for sale.
Modern-Day Fruit Mince Pies at Miami Bakehouse
Today, fruit mince pies are an irreplaceable part of the Christmas and holiday season in countries around the world. At Miami Bakehouse, we’ve perfected our recipe with a blend of plump sultanas, apples, and festive spices. Each bite offers a touch of sweetness, warmth, and nostalgia.
In our bakery, making these pies is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition that brings our team together, celebrating the craftsmanship and care that make each bake special.
Our specialist baking team gets the baking plan underway in late October each year, to produce more than 18,000 individual fruit mince pies each year that our fans adore.
Whole days are set aside to prepare the shortbread, fill the cases with our special recipe filling and bake to perfection. Then our little elves team gets to work to gently dust them with icing sugar and box them ready for you to enjoy. And yes, the bakery is filled with Christmas songs as we get closer to Christmas Day, so there’s more than a little love going into every one of these handmade treats.
We’re proud to carry on the tradition of creating fruit mince pies that evoke the magic and memories of this special time of year.
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