Crumble-topped mince pies, £12.50 for six, The Newt in Somerset
What do you get when you cross the best parts of a mince pie (biscuity shortcrust pastry, sweet and spicy mincemeat) with the best parts of a crumble pudding (Somerset Cider Brandy-infused apple, crunchy almond and hazelnut-crumble topping)? An utterly scrumptious pastry packed with a riot of tangy flavours and textures, best served warm with a dollop of ice cream. shop.thenewtinsomerset.com/uk
Traditional mince pies, £4.95 for three, Chatsworth Farm Shop
Enormous in size and rustic in style — ‘the sort of mince pies Hagrid might serve up to Harry, Ron and Hermione,’ declares Digital Editor Toby Keel. However, their mighty appearance is almost deceptive, as the delicate pastry is ‘so light and crumbly’. In addition, the zesty mincemeat filling — which oozes as you bite into the pie — is so rich that no cream is required. The box is also charmingly decorated, making these pies a beautiful gift. shop.chatsworth.org
Sour cherry, Armagnac & prune mince pies, £14 for six, Daylesford Organic
‘The finest mince pie I have eaten so far,’ enthuses Country Life’s Editor-in-Chief, Mark Hedges — the team struggled to disagree. Deeply rich and splendidly festive, abundant sour cherries and prunes have been given a boozy oomph, but it’s the almond frangipane topping that takes them from pie to perfect pudding. Deputy Editor Kate Green called them ‘picnic-y; ideal for a Boxing Day meet’. www.daylesford.com
Classic mince pies, £2 each, Birley Bakery
If you need an example of good things coming in smaller packages, let these pies be it. Incredibly fruity mincemeat sits amid beautifully crisp golden pastry, both ‘delicious enough to hold their own’. Two bites and they were gone, yet the compliments kept coming: ‘Top of the class’ and ‘the nicest I have had’ being only some. An excellent canapé when hosting many and even better as a tempting treat for one. www.birleybakery.com
Curious Questions: Did mince pies really once contain meat?
Martin Fone investigates the most traditional seasonal food of all: mince pies.
Scotch eggs: Tom Parker Bowles on the delights of this 'absolutely magical thing'
The jury is out as to whether the humble Scotch egg is a snack or a ‘substantial meal’. Either way,
