Ingredients: – 3 cups mixed dried fruit (such as raisins, currants, chopped dried apricots, chopped dried apples, chopped dried cranberries) – 1 cup unsweetened applesauce – 1/2 cup brown sugar – 1/4 cup orange juice
– Zest of 1 orange – Zest of 1 lemon – 1/4 cup chopped almonds or pecans (optional) – 1/4 cup brandy or rum (optional) – 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon ground clove – 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger – 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions: 1. Prepare the filling:In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed dried fruit, applesauce, brown sugar, orange juice, orange zest, lemon zest, chopped nuts (if using), brandy or rum (if using), cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt. Mix well to combine.
Make the crust: – In a food processor, pulse together the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently until it forms a cohesive ball. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven: – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the pie: – Place the assembled pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cool and serve: – Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.