Whisky Crumble Mince Pies for a Joyful Holiday Treat

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s nothing quite like the inviting aroma of a festive kitchen, especially when the air is filled with the scents of sweet spices and rich whisky. I first crafted these Decadent Whisky Crumble Mince Pies during a cozy evening with friends, yearning for a treat that would combine tradition with a contemporary twist. Layering the tangy sweetness of Morello cherries with classic mincemeat and a buttery crumble topping turned out to be the magic touch I didn t know I needed.

These indulgent little pies aren t just desserts; they are conversation starters perfect for evening gatherings or as a comforting afternoon snack. With a delightful crumbly texture and a luscious filling that melts in your mouth, they promise to transport you to a holiday celebration, no matter the season. So, if you re seeking an easy yet impressive treat that will impress your guests, grab your apron and let s whip up these whisky crumble mince pies!

Why are whisky crumble mince pies a must-try?

Comforting and charming, these whisky crumble mince pies are the ultimate festive treat that brings joy to any table. Rich flavors shine through with every bite, thanks to the delightful combination of Morello cherries and spiced mincemeat. Effortless to make, this recipe isn t just about taste; it s also about simplicity, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Crowd-pleasing and adaptable, they cater to various dietary preferences, so everyone can indulge. Stored with ease, these treats remain fresh for days, making them an excellent choice for make-ahead holiday goodies.

Whisky Crumble Mince Pie Ingredients

For the Pastry
Plain Flour Provides structure for the pastry; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
Ground Almonds Adds nuttiness and enhances texture; substitute with ground hazelnuts if desired.
Golden Caster Sugar Sweetens the pastry and filling; regular granulated sugar can be used instead.
Unsalted Butter Essential for a flaky pastry; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Egg Binds the dough and adds richness; a flax egg can be used for a vegan substitute.
Whole Milk (optional) Helps bring the dough together; can substitute with almond milk or omit if the dough clumps well.

For the Filling
Mincemeat The dessert filling, providing sweetness and spice; homemade or store-bought can be used.
Stem Ginger Offers a spicy kick; replace with ground ginger if fresh is unavailable.
Orange Zest Brightens the filling with citrus notes; lemon zest can be used for a different flavor.
Dried Cranberries Adds tartness and chewiness; raisins or currants can be alternatives.
Glacé Morello Cherries Provide sweetness and texture; substitute with any sweet cherries if needed.
Whisky Adds depth of flavor to the filling; rum or brandy could be used as alternatives.

For the Crumble Topping
Oats Create a crunchy crumble topping; use nuts for a nutty alternative.
Pecans Add crunch and flavor to the crumble; walnuts or almonds are good substitutes.
Icing Sugar For dusting, providing a sweet finish to the pies; can be omitted if desired.

Whip up these whisky crumble mince pies and delight in the festive flavors that will make your holidays memorable!

How to Make Whisky Crumble Mince Pies

1. Combine the plain flour, ground almonds, golden caster sugar, cold unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Blend until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Add whole milk gradually, if needed, to form a soft dough. Chill one-third for the lids.
2. Press the remaining dough into a greased 12-hole muffin tin. Make sure the dough goes up the sides to form the bases. Chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes for better structure.
3. Preheat the oven to 220 °C (fan 200 °C / gas 7). Meanwhile, prepare the filling by mixing the mincemeat, stem ginger, orange zest, dried cranberries, glacé Morello cherries, and whisky in a bowl. Fill the chilled pastry cases generously with this mixture.
4. Roll out the reserved pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut out star shapes for the lids. Chill them again for about 10 minutes to maintain their shape while baking.
5. Mix the crumble ingredients oats, pecans, and a sprinkle of icing sugar until they resemble breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this crumble mixture over the filled pies, topping with the pastry stars. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Cool the pies in the tin for 15 minutes before gently transferring them to a wire rack. Dust with icing sugar just before serving for a sweet touch.

Optional: Serve warm with homemade brandy butter for an indulgent treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Whisky Crumble Mince Pies Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make the recipe uniquely yours! The possibilities are as enticing as the original.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute plain flour with a gluten-free blend to create a similarly delightful texture.
• Nut-Free: Replace ground almonds with oat flour or sunflower seed flour for a nut-free alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the crumble for an unexpected burst of heat.
• Fruit Infusion: Swap the Morello cherries for chopped figs or dried apricots for a unique, fruity twist.
• Citrus Flair: Replace orange zest with lemon or lime zest for a brighter, more vibrant flavor profile.
• Healthier Crumble: Use rolled oats blended with coconut oil instead of butter for a lighter crumble topping.
• Chocolate Delight: Fold in a handful of dark chocolate chips into the filling for an indulgent twist.
• Herbal Notes: Infuse the whisky with rosemary or thyme before adding it to the filling to elevate the flavor with herbal undertones.

Each variation adds its own story to these lovely little treats, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends!

Expert Tips for Whisky Crumble Mince Pies

• Chill Your Ingredients: Ensure the butter is well-chilled to create a flaky pastry. Room temperature butter will lead to a tough crust.
• Don t Overmix: When forming the dough, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in dense, chewy pastry instead of light and crumbly.
• Proper Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid burning the crumble topping. Start checking at the 15-minute mark for that golden perfection.
• Customize Filling: Feel free to experiment with the mincemeat; adding fresh apples or pears can enhance the fruity flavors of your whisky crumble mince pies.
• Storage Tips: Allow the pies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a week.

How to Store and Freeze Whisky Crumble Mince Pies

Room Temperature: Keep these delicious pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.

Fridge: If you want to extend their life, store them in the fridge for up to a week. Ensure they re covered tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: You can freeze unbaked whisky crumble mince pies for up to 3 months. Just freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: To reheat baked pies, place them in a preheated oven at 180 °C (350 °F) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the crumble topping is crisp again.

What to Serve with Whisky Crumble Mince Pies?

The warmth of the holiday season calls for delightful pairings that enhance your festive experience.

• Brandy Butter: This creamy, spiced accompaniment enriches each pie, adding a luxurious touch that keeps your guests coming back for more.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth and creamy ice cream balances the warmth of the mince pies, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich filling.
• Fresh Cream: Lightly whipped or dolloped on top, fresh cream brings a delightful creaminess that perfectly complements the spiced mincemeat.
• Mulled Wine: Serve a glass of mulled wine infused with spices for a warming drink that mirrors the flavors in your pies, perfect for festive gatherings.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm mug of coffee or a comforting cup of spiced tea offers a relaxing finish after enjoying your indulgent treats.
• Sweet Red Wine: A chilled glass of sweet red wine enhances the fruity notes in the pies, creating a harmonious pairing that elevates your dessert experience.

Enjoy these delightful combinations and let the spirit of the holiday season linger long after the last pie is savored!

Make Ahead Options

These whisky crumble mince pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the pastry and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the dough and chill it in the fridge, alongside the filling (combining mincemeat, stem ginger, orange zest, dried cranberries, glacé Morello cherries, and whisky) in an airtight container. When you re ready to bake, assemble the pies with the chilled dough and filling, and top them with the crumble mixture. They remain just as delicious when made in advance, and with these make-ahead options, you ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress your guests with minimal last-minute effort!

Whisky Crumble Mince Pies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best mincemeat for my pies?
Absolutely! Opt for a high-quality, rich mincemeat that balances sweetness and spice. If you re feeling adventurous, homemade mincemeat can take your pies to new heights! Look for one with a fruit-forward flavor and avoid any with dark spots or an off smell. For a twist, consider adding a splash of whisky or apple juice to your mincemeat for a personalized touch.

How should I store leftover whisky crumble mince pies?
Very simply! Store your pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best taste and texture. If you prefer a longer shelf-life, pop them in the fridge where they can last up to a week just make sure they re tightly covered to prevent drying out!

Can I freeze whisky crumble mince pies?
Absolutely! You can freeze these delightful pies unbaked for up to 3 months. Arrange the pies on a baking sheet until they re firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container for storage. When you re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to your baking time.

Why did my crumble topping burn while baking?
Ah, a common hiccup! To avoid a burnt topping, make sure to keep an eye on the pies and check them a few minutes before the allotted time. If the crumble is browning too quickly, loosely cover the pies with aluminum foil to shield them while they finish baking. Also, be sure to evenly distribute the crumble topping; thicker patches can cook faster than thinner ones.

Are these whisky crumble mince pies suitable for those with nut allergies?
Great question! Since this recipe includes ground almonds and pecans, it wouldn t be safe for anyone with nut allergies. However, you can easily substitute these ingredients. Use sunflower seed flour or oats in place of ground almonds, and omit the pecans or replace them with pumpkin seeds in the crumble to create a nut-free dessert that everyone can enjoy.

Can pets eat whisky crumble mince pies?
Very important to note! These pies are not safe for pets, especially due to the chocolate, sugars, and potential ingredients like whisky. Keep the delicious temptations human-only, and ensure your pets stick to their treats for their health and safety!