Olivia Gibbons, co-owner and chef of the popular Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess, shares an easy and delectable mince pie recipe for the holiday season.
Photo: Pixabay: Osman Sargi
Did you know that the origin of the humble mince pie lies in the Middle East? It eventually made its way west and became part of the Christmas tradition throughout the UK and Ireland.
These little treats are a welcome sight leading up to and during the festive season. Lovely with a cup of tea and if you are feeling indulgent, add a spoonful of brandy cream. Thanks for sharing your mince pie recipe, Olivia.
Ingredients
- 225g/ 8oz Plain Flour
- 125g/ 4oz Golden Caster Sugar
- 100g Ground Almonds
- 125g/ 4oz Butter or Margarine (room temperature)
- 1 Egg (beaten)
- A little water, if necessary
- 450g/ 1lb Jar Mincemeat
- Icing sugar
Method
- Preheat oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas 6. Lightly grease patty/bun tins.
- Put flour, sugar and ground almonds into a mixing bowl and mix well together.
- Rub butter/margarine through the dry ingredients. Add the beaten egg (and water if required) and mix to a soft dough.
- Turn onto a lightly floured board and gently knead.
- Cover with cling film and keep in fridge until ready to use. The pastry will keep for about three days.
- Roll pastry on a floured board and cut rounds or stars with a cutter to fit greased bun/patty tins. Put a teaspoon of mincemeat in each and cut a lid from remaining pastry to put on top.
- Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Dust with icing sugar.
Enjoy !
About the Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess
The Shannon Princess has been thoughtfully designed throughout. The barge’s inviting interior makes a charming floating living space – a perfect “Home away from home” for guests to enjoy. The welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by Ruairi and Olivia’s love of antiquities, crafts, pottery and art with many works by established and local Irish artists. Onboard the barge a friendly and relaxed mood has been created by carefully mixing casual informality with quality service.
- Route: The Lower Shannon River, Ireland – Between Glasson and Killaloe
- Passengers: Up to 10 guests in 5 ensuite cabins, all on the main level
- Hotel barge cruises: Private charters & Cabin cruises
- Online brochure: Click here
- More info: Enjoy Barging in Ireland
- Visit website: BargeCharters.com
Book now for 2026
Shannon Princess is fully booked for the 2025 barging season
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