Mushroom, Chestnut & Stilton Christmas Pies with Cranberry Glaze

These individual festive pies combine earthy mushrooms, sweet chestnuts, creamy Stilton and a glossy cranberry glaze for the ultimate vegetarian Christmas main. Wrapped in buttery puff pastry and baked until golden, they’re perfect for Christmas dinner, Boxing Day, or as a luxurious vegetarian centrepiece.

🥧 Ingredients

For the filling

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 200g chestnut mushrooms, sliced
• 100g cooked chestnuts, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tbsp double cream
• 75g Stilton cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp cranberry sauce
• Salt and pepper

For the pastry

• 1 sheet ready‑rolled puff pastry – Buy ready‑rolled puff pastry here
• 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)

🔥 Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan 180°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a pan, then sauté the shallot and mushrooms until softened and golden.
3. Add the chestnuts, thyme, and double cream, stirring for 2–3 minutes until combined.
4. Remove from the heat and fold in the Stilton and cranberry sauce. Season well.
5. Unroll the puff pastry and cut into circles or squares. Spoon filling into the centre of each piece.
6. Top with pastry lids or cut‑out pastry stars, then seal and crimp the edges.
7. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 20–25 minutes until crisp and golden.
8. Serve warm with extra cranberry sauce.

🎄 Serving Suggestions

• Pair with maple roasted potatoes for a sweet‑savory balance.
• Add a jug of vegetarian Christmas gravy on the table.
• Serve on a festive dinner board with rosemary sprigs for presentation.

🌟 Variations

• Vegan: use plant‑based cheese and vegan puff pastry.
• Luxury: add a splash of port to the filling.
• Party pies: cut pastry smaller for canapé‑style bites.

💡 Tips for Perfect Pies

• Chill the pastry before baking for crisp layers.
• Don’t overfill — leave room for steam.
• Brush with egg for a glossy golden finish.

❓ FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes — assemble and chill, then bake fresh.

Can I freeze them? Freeze unbaked pies and bake from frozen.

Can I swap the cheese? Goat’s cheese or Brie work beautifully.