Streusel pear mince pies bring together a wonderful mix of flavors and textures, combining juicy pears, rich mincemeat, and a crumbly streusel topping. This recipe isn’t just about adding sweetness to your holiday table; it’s about creating a pie with a bit of crunch, warmth, and all those festive flavors we love. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a comforting treat, these pies will leave everyone wanting more.
Why Streusel Pear Mince Pies Are Special
Think of streusel pear mince pies as the best of both worlds. They’ve got the classic flavor of traditional mince pies, with that familiar warmth and richness, but with a fresh twist. By adding pear, these pies take on a juicy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the classic mincemeat filling.
The streusel topping, made of buttery crumbles, gives each bite a satisfying crunch that elevates the pie from good to unforgettable. It’s the perfect balance between fruity, sweet, and crisp.
Ingredients
Before getting started, gather your ingredients. For these pies, you’ll need the following:
– Ready-made pie crust or homemade pastry
– 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and chopped
– Mincemeat (around 1 cup)
– Brown sugar (for added sweetness)
– Cinnamon and nutmeg (for warmth and flavor)
– Butter (for that delicious streusel crumble)
– Flour (to bind the streusel)
– Chopped nuts (optional but adds a lovely texture)
How to Make Streusel Pear Mince Pies
This recipe is beginner-friendly and comes together with ease. Follow these steps to create your pies:
Prepare the Filling
Start by preparing the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped pears, mincemeat, a bit of brown sugar, and spices. The brown sugar will enhance the natural sweetness of the pears, while cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth, making these pies perfect for cozy gatherings.
Make the Streusel Topping
In another bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, and softened butter to create your streusel topping. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs. If you’re a fan of extra crunch, throw in a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. This streusel will give the pies a golden, crisp topping that’s absolutely irresistible.
Assemble the Pies
Roll out your pie crust and cut circles to fit your muffin tin or small pie dishes. Press the crust into each mold, creating a base for your filling. Spoon in the pear and mincemeat mixture, filling each pie shell about two-thirds full. Then, sprinkle a generous layer of streusel on top of each pie, covering the filling.
Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the pies for around 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the streusel is lightly browned. The aroma will be heavenly! Allow them to cool slightly before removing them from the tin.
Serving and Enjoying Your Streusel Pear Mince Pies
Once your pies have cooled a bit, they’re ready to serve. These are delicious on their own, but a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes them extra indulgent. The combination of warm spices, juicy pears, and buttery streusel is simply magical. They’re best enjoyed with a cozy drink like spiced tea or hot cocoa.
Tips for Making the Perfect Streusel Pear Mince Pies
To ensure your pies turn out just right, keep these tips in mind:
Choose Ripe Pears
Use ripe pears for the best flavor and sweetness. If your pears are still a bit firm, let them sit out for a day or two to soften.
Don’t Overfill
While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, be careful not to overfill, as the juices from the pears can bubble over during baking.
Experiment with Nuts
If you love texture, add different nuts to your streusel. Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts all bring a unique twist to the pies.
Chill the Dough
If you’re making your own pastry, chilling the dough before rolling it out can make it easier to work with and prevent it from shrinking during baking.
FAQs
Can I use canned pears for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but fresh pears provide a better texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have mincemeat?
You can substitute with a spiced fruit filling of your choice.
Can these pies be frozen?
Yes, freeze them after baking and reheat them in the oven when ready to serve.
Is the streusel topping necessary?
The streusel adds texture, but you can skip it if preferred.
Can I make these pies gluten-free?
Yes, just use a gluten-free flour mix for the pastry and streusel.