National Mincemeat Pie Day

Celebrate National Mincemeat Pie Day with Good Thyme Gal — A Modern Take on a Classic Comfort...

October 26th marks National Mincemeat Pie Day, a sweet and spiced celebration of one of the most nostalgic desserts in culinary history. While its name might sound old-fashioned, mincemeat pie is a dish that continues to evolve, rich with history, flavor, and heart. At Good Thyme Gal, I’m all about honoring traditional recipes while giving them an equitable, approachable twist that makes them accessible for every home cook.

The Timeless Tradition of Mincemeat Pie

The story of mincemeat pie stretches back to medieval England, where cooks combined minced meat, dried fruits, and warm spices as a way to preserve food during the winter. Over time, the meat content diminished, and the pie transformed into the sweet, spiced treat we know today, filled with raisins, apples, citrus zest, and a touch of brandy or rum.

Mincemeat pie is more than just dessert; it’s a reflection of culinary resilience and creativity. It reminds us that great food often comes from humble beginnings and the desire to make the most of what we have. That spirit perfectly aligns with Good Thyme Gal’s mission, celebrating equitable, affordable, and wholesome recipes that connect people across cultures and generations.

Why National Mincemeat Pie Day Matters

In today’s fast-paced food culture, National Mincemeat Pie Day offers a chance to pause and reconnect with traditional flavors. It’s a celebration of heritage cooking, reminding us of the value in preserving recipes that tell stories; stories of family, sustainability, and community.

For Good Thyme Gal, this day is a perfect opportunity to show that even the most historic recipes can be made approachable, budget-friendly, and inclusive. You don’t need fancy ingredients or pastry chef skills to enjoy a slice of comfort, just a few pantry staples and a sprinkle of love.

By reimagining this pie through an equitable lens, we make it possible for anyone to enjoy, no matter their background, budget, or access to resources. Because good food, like good thyme, should be shared by all.

Good Thyme Gal’s Easy & Equitable Mincemeat Pie Recipe

Ingredients for the Filling:

• 1 ½ cups diced apples (any variety)

• ½ cup raisins

• ½ cup golden raisins or currants

• ¼ cup chopped dates or prunes

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ½ cup orange juice or apple cider

• 1 tablespoon orange zest

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon allspice

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• 2 tablespoons butter or coconut oil

• 2 tablespoons brandy (optional)

For the Pie Crust (or use store-bought):

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup cold butter (or plant-based alternative), cubed

• 3–4 tablespoons cold water

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the filling: In a saucepan, combine apples, raisins, brown sugar, orange juice, and butter. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes until the fruit softens and the mixture thickens.

2. Stir in orange zest and spices. Simmer for another 3–5 minutes until fragrant.

3. Remove from heat and add brandy (if using). Let cool completely before assembling the pie.

4. Make the crust: In a bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add cold water gradually until dough forms.

5. Roll out half of the dough and press into a 9-inch pie pan. Spoon in the cooled mincemeat filling.

6. Roll out the remaining dough and place on top, sealing the edges. Cut slits for steam to escape.

7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, until golden and bubbling. Cool slightly before serving.

This pie is beautifully spiced, naturally sweet, and tastes like autumn comfort in every bite. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla yogurt for an equitable twist on a traditional favorite.

Why It Aligns with Good Thyme Gal

At Good Thyme Gal, food is more than a meal, it’s a movement toward equity, sustainability, and connection. National Mincemeat Pie Day captures all of that: it honors the past, celebrates mindful cooking, and embraces creativity in the kitchen.

By simplifying this classic dessert and keeping ingredients accessible, this recipe embodies what Good Thyme Gal stands for, making good food for all, without barriers. Whether you’re a seasoned home baker or a first-time pie maker, this is your chance to celebrate tradition with a fresh perspective.

So, grab your apron, gather your loved ones, and bake up a slice of history. Because every good thyme deserves a sweet ending.