mmmmmmmmmm Mincemeat Pies!
Though there is such a variation from one to the other, according to the spices and add-ins.
So much so, that I am always skeptical at first taste ... small piece ... then yes, more if it is really good.
Agree, the flavours can be tempered with some chopped apples mixed in.
Also, some sliced maraschinos can help take away the darkness of it.
Good strategies, too, if you are buying ready-made and want it to be more like home-made!
There's always ways to cheat ....