Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead Of fresh For The Star-Topped Mince Pies?

Our answer

Nigella's Star-Topped Mince Pies (from NIGELLA CHRISTMAS) are so called as they are capped with star-shaped pastry lids. You could make them with shop-bought mincemeat, but they are particularly good if filled with home-made cranberry mincemeat.

The mincemeat recipe is a combination of cranberries, spices and dried fruits. The recipe calls for fresh cranberries but you can use frozen cranberries instead. There is no need to thaw the cranberries, just tip the frozen fruits into the pan and stir them over a low heat until they have thawed and softened slightly and then continue with the recipe. However, we wuld mention that you should not try to substitute the fresh or frozen cranberries with extra dried cranberries as they will make the mincemeat too dry.