When is too early for mince pies?
According to recipe box Gousto, which launched in Ireland earlier this year. Irish searches for mince pie recipes have climbed steadily throughout November, rising from negligible levels in late October to clear seasonal peaks over the past two weeks.
For those ready to get into the festive mood, Gousto’s Lead Chef, Sophie Nahmad, is elevating the classic mince pie with a Crème Brûlée topping.
2TCYYEP Mince PieWhy Torch Your Mince Pies?
“Adding a Crème Brûlée topping to your mince pies is the ultimate indulgence,” says Sophie. “It is richer, sweeter and brings a bit of theatre to the table.”
“Spoon cold custard on top, sprinkle generously with sugar and place it under a hot grill, or use a blowtorch if you have one. You will get a crackly brûlée crust with a warm pastry and cool, creamy centre underneath. It is playful, indulgent and guaranteed to impress.”
More Ways to Elevate a Mince Pie
Whether you prefer to keep things classic or push the boat out, there are plenty of ways to upgrade a mince pie. For many, nothing beats a warm mince pie with cold cream, vanilla custard or brandy butter. But for those looking for something more adventurous, Sophie has a festive twist that delivers real impact. “Try baking your mince pie with a hunk of Stilton, a drizzle of honey and a pinch of chilli flakes,” she says. “You get a balanced mix of sweet, savoury and spice. It is surprisingly delicious and brings a proper festive punch.”
For a sweeter finish, Sophie recommends her Crème Brûlée Mince Pie variation. “The custard and caramelised sugar give you that beautiful hot and cold contrast and a crackly top,” she adds. “It is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.”
Recipe: Crème Brûlée Mince Pies
Serves: 6 Prep: 10 mins Cook: 5 mins
6 ready-made mince pies
250ml cold custard
6 tsp caster sugar
Spoon a generous layer of cold custard over each mince pie.
Sprinkle evenly with sugar.
Place under a hot grill for 2–3 minutes, or use a blowtorch to caramelise.
Serve immediately.
“This twist transforms a mince pie into a showstopping dessert,” says Sophie.
Save Stale Mince Pies with This Amazing Hack
With many people tucking in as soon as they hit the shelves, it is no surprise that leftover mince pies end up going stale.
“If your mince pies are starting to feel a bit tired but are still safe to eat, do not throw them out,” Sophie says. “Brûlée them instead. The custard and caramelised sugar give them a silky centre and a crackly top. It is the perfect festive glow-up.”
More festive dessert ideas are available now on the Gousto Christmas Recipe Hub.
Gousto portions start from €5.13, or €2.57 with the introductory offer. For more information or to place an order, visit gousto.ie or download the Gousto app.
