One of the best things about Christmas is that it gives you an excuse to simply eat what and when you want. Mince pies are a prime example of this; a plate of them left in the kitchen will slowly dwindle away as passersby pick one up be it breakfast, lunch, dinner or anytime in between. These are our picks of the best mince pie recipes, from the classics to the more unusual.

At first sight, Shay Cooper keeps things traditional with his mince pie recipe. Hidden within the pastry however is a financier batter, which adds a soft spongy texture with the subtle notes of almond.

If you're wanting to try an ultra-luxurious take on the classic, pastry chef Andrew Gravett's mince pie recipe is sure to impress. Featuring spiced dried fruit coated in almond cream and sandwiched between two almond sablé buscuits, these may not look like the average mince pie but they certainly taste like one – albeit the best you've ever had.

Transport your guests to Italy with these Calabrian mince pies from Francesco Mazzei. The ideal accompaniment to a glass of Marsala, these wheels of crisp pastry are filled with figs, apricots, nuts and heather blossom honey for the ultimate festive mouthful.

By using spelt flour to make the pastry in this mince pie recipe, you get an added nuttiness as well as guaranteed melt-in-your-mouth pastry. The orange juice and zest incorporated into the mince meat adds extra sharpness.

Combining two favourites in one, these custard mince pies make the perfect festive snack. Not only do these taste amazing but they're also incredibly simple and can be knocked up in under an hour.