There are some excellent ready-made versions available (including ones made with vegetarian suet) but nothing beats homemade, and it’s very simple to make. Mincemeat often requires an overnight ...

Mince pies, once baked, will keep for a few days in an air-tight tin but the bottoms may become soggy. You can make the pastry ahead and freeze it for up to a month so it's ready to roll when you are.