Making mince pies and memories

Recipe - Makes 2 x 440g jars

Prep time 15 minutes Cooking time 15 minutes

200g soft brown sugar 170ml Spiced Orange & Clove Brandy 300g fresh cranberries 170g dried cherries or blueberries (or a mixture) 200g mixed currants and raisins 30g peeled, very finely grated fresh ginger 2 tsp mixed spice Juice and zest of 2 medium oranges 1 vanilla pod, cut into 4 pieces

1 Put the sugar and brandy into a large pan and warm gently. Add the fresh cranberries and cook gently for about 3 minutes. Stir well.

2 Tip in the dried fruit, ginger, mixed spice, orange juice and zest and vanilla and stir well. Cover and simmer very gently for about 15 minutes, stirring and checking occasionally.

3 Spoon into clean jars and store in the fridge. This keeps happily for up to 2 weeks.