Making and Storing Star Topped Mince Pies

Asked by meggyjay. Answered on 11th December 2014

Full question

Hi, I am wondering how long the Star Topped Mince Pies keep for or if they can be frozen? Thanks.

Hi there, I was thinking about putting the Star Topped Mince Pies in my Christmas hampers. Do you know how far in advance I could make these? Would love to be able to freeze the pastry and then make them up a week before Xmas or something. Mincemeat can be made up to 2 weeks of says. Any advice please. Many thanks x

I want to make the star topped mince pies. Could you recommend where to buy the tartlet tins from? I am struggling to find some the right size. Thank you. Katie.

Our answer

Nigella's Star Topped Mice Pies (from Christmas and on the Nigella website) are made with Nigella's Cranberry-Studded Mincemeat (also from Christmas and on the website) or could be made with store-bought mincemeat. As they are home-made they do not keep quite as long as commercial mince pies and we suggest that you keep them in an airtight container for up to one week.

The baked mince pies do freeze very well and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool the pies completely then put them into resealeble boxes, putting a sheet of baking parchment (parchment paper) or greaseporrof paper in between any layers. To thaw the mice pies remove them from the boxes and stand on a wire rack at room temperature for an hour. The baked (or frozen and thawed) mince pies can be gently re-warmed in a low oven (120c/250F) for 3-4 minutes before serving.

Nigella has had her mini tart pan for some time but if you can also use a mini muffin pan to make the mice pies. You may need a slightly smaller star cutter but the baking time is the same as for the tart pan.