This quantity is enough to mix with enough apples or pears for one pie, crisp, or cobbler. (Using 6 to 8 cups of fruit per recipe. Of course, you can use more, or less of the mincemeat mixture if you wish.) Simply toss the desired amount with your sliced fruit and proceed with the recipe. Because the candied oranges are sweetened and the mixture has brown sugar in it, you can reduce the sugar by 3 tablespoons, or more (because it's so flavorful) in whatever recipe you're using. Dried currants or cranberries can replace the raisins, for a different look or flavor. This will keep for weeks, or even months, before you plan to use it. The taste of the brandy will mellow nicely the longer it sits. In lieu of brandy, try dark rum, whiskey, or orange liqueur, such as Grand Marnier.