Low Calorie Mince Pies

'Tis the season to be "calorie conscious". I know, I know, are we seriously thinking about calories at Christmas??

Hear me out. Calorie conscious is a term I like to use when I'm not strictly tracking my calories (and let's face it, who wants to at this time of year?) but am still being mindful of my intake. If you're well and truly stuck into the Christmas spirit and just want to enjoy the traditional bakes then I encourage you to do exactly that - but if you're actively seeking out something a little lighter, this one's for you.

Prep Time:  15 mins | Makes:  10 | Calories:  121 per pie | Protein:  5g each

This is a speedy recipe that brings all the flavours of a traditional mince pie together into a soft, low calorie dough made from yoghurt and flour. Be sure to use real Greek yoghurt as opposed to Greek-style yoghurt, and I've opted for zero fat to keep the calories low.

Ingredients

• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder

• 120g self-raising flour

• 150g Greek yoghurt (zero fat)

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 120g mincemeat

• 1 egg (beaten with 1 tbsp water)

• Low cal olive oil spray

• Sugar for dusting

Method

1. Preheat the oven or Air Fryer to 190 degrees.

2. In a large mixing bowl, use a spatula to combine the protein powder, flour, yoghurt and cinnamon.

3. Sprinkle some flour onto your work surface to prevent sticking then transfer the mixture over and gently knead and roll it into a ball.

4. Cut ⅓ of the dough away from the ball and set aside.

5. Take the larger portion of dough, tear off 10 even sized pieces and roll them into small balls. (Flour your hands if warm to prevent sticking).

6. Using the palm of your hand or a rolling pin, flatten out each ball until it forms a thin circle approx 1 cm thick, then pushing your fingers into the middle of the circle, create a small nest for the mincemeat filling.

7. Evenly distribute the mincemeat amongst the nests.

8. Thinly roll out the remaining dough and cut out 10 star shapes to create the lids for each pie.

9. Place the lids on top and gently brush each with the egg wash.

10. Spray the baking tray with olive oil and bake at 190 degrees for 6 minutes.

11. Set aside to cool, then dust with sugar to serve.

I’m using Optimum Nutrition's French Vanilla Crème protein powder. For 20% off, use code JayClaire20 at the check-out. Optimum Nutrition is my go-to protein brand due to the quality and care that goes into their products.

Looking for more Protein Treats? Try my Creamy Chocolate Protein Frappé!