
A Mince Pie is a small, sweet British pastry filled with 'mincemeat'—a spiced mixture of dried fruits, sugar, suet (or butter), and often a splash of brandy or rum. Originating in medieval England, it is a quintessential Christmas treat, traditionally eaten during the festive season from late November to Epiphany (January 6th).
This pastry is high in carbohydrates and fat, primarily from the sugary fruit filling and the buttery shortcrust pastry. A single pie provides a quick energy boost and some iron from the dried fruits, but is an indulgence rather than a nutrient-dense food, with a typical calorie count around 250-300 kcal per pie.
| Calories | 275 kcal |
| Protein | 2.5 g |
| Carbs | 35 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 22 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Iron | 1.8 mg |
| Potassium | 120 mg |
| Vitamin C | 1.5 mg |
| Calcium | 25 mg |
| Magnesium | 15 mg |
| Phosphorus | 40 mg |
| Zinc | 0.4 mg |
| Manganese | 0.3 mg |
Per 1 mince pie (approx. 65 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Historically, mincemeat actually contained minced meat (like beef or mutton) alongside the fruits and spices, a practice that has largely faded in modern recipes. Nutritionally, the dense mix of dried fruits offers a concentrated source of dietary fiber and antioxidants, though it's often overshadowed by the high sugar content.