Paul Hollywood’s top 7 baking tips for perfect hot cross buns every time
Want to have a go at making your own hot cross buns this Easter? Follow Paul Hollywood's expert tips for the perfect, fluffy fruit buns (and what to do with any leftovers)
Easter is approaching this week, and if there’s one bake that defines the season, it’s the humble hot cross bun. Every year, thousands of you turn to us for our tried-and-tested recipes, but getting that perfect balance of soft, fluffy dough and fragrant spice can still be a challenge when baking from scratch. So, who better to guide you than Paul Hollywood? The baker behind our ever-popular classic hot cross buns shares his top tips and techniques to help you master this Easter essential, so you can turn out beautifully risen, bakery-worthy buns every time. So why not check out his recipe and then use the below advice to take your buns to the next level. Looking for more inspiration? Explore our favourite Easter bakes, fun recipes to make with kids and easy ways to use up leftovers, plus ideas for hosting the ultimate Easter celebration. Paul's quickfire hacks for better flavour and texture in your hot cross buns: Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, resting it if needed to help the gluten develop properly. Use the “windowpane” test to check if the dough is ready - it should stretch thinly enough to let light through, with visible webbing. Let the dough prove fully until doubled in size to ensure a light, soft texture. Build flavour with spices, citrus zest and even fresh fruit, as well as dried, for better taste and moisture. Finish with a classic flour and water cross or experiment with decorative toppings like sweet paste or marzipan for a twist. Origin of hot cross buns The history of the hot cross bun dates back to the 14th century, with the monk Thomas Rocliffe believed to have created the very first ones which he distributed to the poor on Good Friday. It went down so well that word spread and by the 19th century, hot cross buns were widely eaten across the country to mark the end of Lent. Paul's seven expert tricks for making perfect hot cross buns 1. Knead the dough to increase elasticity "The first thing you do is make your base dough. You knead it until you can pull a bit off and you can see it’s quite elastic. It needs to stretch. One trick is, if you get tired of kneading it, leave it in a bowl for a bit to rise for 20 minutes. That'll help the process along." 2. Check the dough texture is right "The best thing to do is hold your stretched dough towards the light – you should be able to read the newspaper through it. You also need to look for the webbing – that’s the gluten strands bonding together. If you’ve got webbing in the dough you know it’s right. The thinner you can get that the better." 3. Either mix by hand or a bread machine "A dough hook on a mixer will be quicker, but mixing the dough by hand will give you a good feel for what the dough’s like. Then, if you’re ever caught short and you haven’t got a mixer, you’ll still be able to make them. Plus, if you mix it by hand, you’ll get to remember what the dough should feel like when it's ready." 4. Add spices for extra flavour "Cinnamon works really well, and a bit of nutmeg to an extent. I always use fresh fruit in mine. The original recipes used fresh fruit, it’s only quite recently we’ve started using dried fruit. Apples, oranges, tangerines, zest of lemon and orange and cinnamon works really well together." Try our chocolate & spice hot cross buns, spiced hot cross buns and hot cross bun ring with spiced honey butter. 5. Try non-traditional flavours "Morello cherries and chocolate is a great combination for a non-traditional twist." For more unusual flavour variations, try our chilli cheese hot cross buns, lemon & marzipan hot cross buns, chocolate & tropical fruit hot cross buns and triple chocolate hot cross buns. We've even created the perfect hybrid bakes with our hot cross cinnamon buns and banana bread hot cross buns. 6. Use leftovers to make a pudding "You can make a great summer pudding with hot cross buns. Alternatively, you can bake with them and make a delicious bread and butter pudding. What I’d do is put some white chocolate chips in there as well, then slice up some hot cross buns and add the zest of an orange." Try our bun & butter pudding and then our chocolate hot cross bun bread & butter pudding or our hot cross bun lemon pudding. Also check out more of our Easter leftover ideas. 7. Choose your topping "Marzipan makes a nice cross for a bit of decoration, or you can use sweet paste or just the traditional flour and water." You could also experiment with adding mix-ins for extra flavour such as apricot jam used in our cranberry and orange hot cross buns. Discover more hot cross bun topping ideas. More Easter recipes and tips... Paul's tips for decorating Easter bakes 25 unusual desserts and cakes you need to try in the lead up to Easter The ultimate Easter Sunday lunch 13 no-bake Easter treats 30 best Easter dinner ideas Visit our Easter page Do you have any handy hot cross bun hints that never fail? Let us know in the comments section below...
Fancy a stunning stack of breakfast pancakes or a cheesy crêpe stuffed with crispy bacon? Choose your favourite filling and try our top savoury pancakes
There's nothing quite like a warm pancake stuffed with melty cheddar and ham, or a dosa filled with spicy masala. Whether you're celebrating Pancake Day or just looking for a flippin' good supper, our top 15 savoury pancakes are simple, adaptable and, most importantly, seriously tasty. Try our classic savoury pancake recipe for a speedy weekend brunch or experiment with our other favourites. Treat yourself to our best ever pancake recipes and also discover more sensational savoury pancake recipes. Now try our healthy pancake recipes and make them a meal with our best pancake recipes for dinner. Get even more inspiration with our pancake recipes from around the world. View Green Video on the source website Our 20 best savoury pancakes 1. Brie-stuffed pancakes with crispy bacon Melted brie is the secret surprise in this utterly indulgent stack, served with crisp rashers of smoked bacon. Try it for Pancake Day, or make it for brunch this weekend. You could even top these cheesy brie-stuffed pancakes with a poached egg in addition to the bacon, and serve alongside some roasted cherry tomatoes, if you like. Also, discover our how to cook bacon guide. 2. Kimchi & sesame spinach with mature cheddar crêpes These veggie crêpes pack a real flavour punch, with a kimchi, cheese and spinach and filling that's pepped up with crispy chilli oil. It's a great option if you're up for trying something different on Shrove Tuesday. Try more of our kimchi recipes. 3. Creamy garlic butter mushrooms crêpes Try this savoury dish of crêpes filled with creamy garlic butter mushrooms for a decadent Pancake Day option. Or try our chicken & mushroom pancake topping for a meaty alternative. 4. Okonomiyaki Cabbage and bite-sized chunks of cooked pork belly make this okonomiyaki (Japanese savoury pancake) a real winner, especially when covered in lashings of mayonnaise, shredded seaweed and bonito flakes. It could be your lunch the day after pork belly roast, ready in just 30 minutes. Looking for a meat-free version? Try our veggie okonomiyaki. 5. Savoury vegan pancakes The secret to our fluffy savoury vegan pancakes? Plant milk and olive oil. They make just as good a batter as eggs and milk, promise! We like our stack topped with garlicky vegan soft cheese, baby portobello mushrooms, vine tomatoes and a sprinkling of thyme leaves. Discover more vegan pancake recipes. 6. Eggs benedict pancakes Are you a fan of eggs benedict? We've taken this classic brunch dish to the next level by serving it in a stack of fluffy American-style pancakes. Topped with a runny egg and hollandaise sauce, this really is a breakfast of champions. Make our eggs benedict pancakes for an impressive Pancake Day special or weekend treat. 7. Pancake cannelloni Give your pancakes an Italian-style twist with our pancake cannelloni. This family supper is everything we want from a meal; warm, cheesy and satisfying in every way. Fill your pancakes with spinach, meatballs and ricotta, then bake until golden and bubbling. Plate up with a slab of cheesy garlic bread – we guarantee clean plates all round. 8. Potato pancakes Potatoes may not be the first ingredient you think of when it comes to pancakes, but they really are a great way to use up leftover mash. Incorporate your superfluous spuds into the batter for a beautifully light and fluffy texture. Served with crispy bacon and scrambled eggs, our potato pancakes make for a super-satisfying savoury treat. Now try a variation with chard and eggs. 9. Crispy pancakes with creamy chicken & bacon Your favourite 90s throwback meal just got an upgrade. These baked beauties are filled with chestnut mushrooms, bacon and creamy chicken. Our crispy pancakes are an true crowd-pleaser, perfect for Sunday afternoon comfort food. Kids and adults will love the rich sauce and crisp breadcrumb topping. Serve with a spoonful of baked beans for an extra dose of nostalgia. 10. Buckwheat crêpe madames Looking for a gluten-free brunch option? These light and crispy buckwheat galettes offer an inventive take on the popular croque madame sandwich. Layers of thinly sliced ham and mustard cheese sauce are topped with a fried egg and enveloped in the folded crêpe. Discover our how to cook buckwheat guide. Check out more gluten-free pancake recipes. 11. Sweet potato masala dosa with coconut raita Our sweet potato masala dosas are savoury Indian pancakes, traditionally eaten for breakfast or as a tasty snack to keep you going until dinner. The spicy sweet potato filling is complemented by the cooling coconut yogurt, and don't be afraid to add some Indian chutneys or pickles for good measure. This vegetarian treat is well worth the effort, and puts fresh, colourful veg centre stage. 12. Spinach pancakes with harissa yogurt & poached eggs Give your brunch a flavour twist with these gorgeous nutmeg-spiced spinach pancakes. Served with a punchy rose harissa yogurt and runny egg, this is a recipe worth getting out of bed for! 13. Smoked ham & cheese pancakes This gooey pick-me-up meal is pure comfort food, and takes less than 20 minutes to make. Try our smoked ham & cheese pancakes for a light supper or as a brunch that's guaranteed to impress. If there's a better combination than melty gruyère and chunks of ham, we haven't found it yet. 14. Spicy kimchi pancake (kimchi jeon) This vegan pancake batter is given a flavour bomb uplift from gut-friendly kimchi and sweet and spicy gochujang (Korean red pepper paste). Serve cut into bite-size pieces for the full experience. Try more global vegan recipes. 15. Korean-style prawn & spring onion pancake Need a speedy dinner for one? Make our Korean-style prawn & spring onion pancake with a soy and red chilli dipping sauce. Create this tasty pancake with just a handful of ingredients and serve in wedges, ready for munching. It also makes a great appetizer for hungry party guests, if you double the quantities. 16. Spinach & ricotta pancake bake Ever made a whole dinner from pancakes? This clever spinach & ricotta pancake bake is the perfect Pancake Day dinner (save the sweet ones for pudding) and is simply made from layers of tomato sauce, nutmeg-spiked spinach, pancake triangles and melted mozzarella. Irresistible. 17. Pancake breakfast tacos Shake things up at breakfast time with this indulgent start to the day. Stuffed with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon and melted cheese, they'll be your new favourite brunch dish. 18. Smash burger pancakes If you love smashed burgers and pancakes, get these savoury delights on the table this Shrove Tuesday. Tangy gherkins, burger sauce and melting American cheese complete the look. 19. Ham & cheese Dutch baby pancake Baked in the oven rather than fried, this Dutch savoury treat is packed with ham, Gruyère cheese and long-stem broccoli for an elevated take on the humble pancake. 20. Staffordshire oatcakes Made from oatmeal, flour and yeast, these classic pancakes originate from North Staffordshire and are traditionally savoury. We've filled ours with garlicky mushrooms and cheese. Enjoyed these recipes? Check out our other pancake guides... Unusual pancake fillings and flavours Top 5 American pancakes The best tools for Pancake Day The best healthy pancake recipes What's your favourite savoury pancake filling? Leave a comment below...
Learn how to host a Boxing Day buffet by revamping your Christmas leftovers after the big day. Try these easy-to-make, seasonal dishes to wow a crowd
Boxing Day was made for relaxing with friends and family and indulging in the best of your Christmas leftovers. Turn sad-looking scraps into new meals, and if you're having people over, put together a buffet to impress. These Boxing Day party food ideas are all about big, comforting flavours and making the most of festive favourites. We've got clever pasta bakes, salads, scones and puddings to use up whatever's left in the kitchen and keep the party going well beyond Christmas Day. ' Check out our Boxing Day recipes for more ways to use your Christmas leftovers. If you’d prefer a more intimate affair after you’ve hosted your main celebrations, why not try our quick Boxing Day dinners or family dinner ideas for Christmas leftovers? And it’s never too late for a Christmas sweet treat! Try our best leftover Christmas dessert ideas to breathe life into your stale festive cakes and biscuits. Salads and finger foods 1. Boxing day scones Turn your leftover gammon or ham into a round of warm fresh scones, the perfect welcome for last-minute guests between Christmas and New Year. Discover more sweet and savoury scone recipes. 2. Orange, fennel & wild rice salad Do you have carrots left over from Christmas Day? You can enhance them with texture and fresh flavours in this orange, fennel & wild rice salad. Use up more of your leftover Christmas veg with these clever Christmas leftover salads. 3. Veg peel fritters Save your vegetable peelings from your Christmas roasts to make these easy fritters, spiced with chilli powder, cumin and nigella seeds. They go perfectly with a lime pickle, mango chutney or raita dip. 4. Honeyed beetroot & carrot salad with feta & hazelnuts If you have a bag of leftover carrots in your cupboard, spruce them up in this honeyed beetroot & carrot salad with feta & hazelnuts. Make the zesty dressing using honey, lemon zest, orange, cumin and coriander. It’s a light and refreshing main, ideal after a heavy Christmas roast. Make the most of seasonal winter produce with our winter salad recipes. 5. Refried roasties Use up any uneaten potatoes and make these refried roasties with pickled onions and thyme. They’re a great vegetarian and gluten-free addition to your Boxing Day buffet. Boxing Day mains 6. Leftover lamb curry Make the most of leftover roast lamb with this simple, three-step, flavour-packed leftover lamb curry. Serve with naan, spiced rice and more side dishes for a filling feast. 7. Leftover turkey fricassee This creamy leftover turkey fricassee can be on your table in just 20 minutes, and works well with either potatoes or pasta. You can bulk it up further by pairing it with a side of garlic bread or greens, such as our stir-fried garlic green beans or spring greens with lemon dressing, for a zesty side to cut through the creaminess. 8. Leftover lamb & potato pie This spin on cottage pie can be made in no time, and is great for using up your leftover lamb, gravy and potatoes. Layer your meat at the bottom of a small baking dish before topping it with gravy and your crumbled potatoes, then top with cheese and cook until golden. Discover more twists on traditional cottage pie with our guide 10 twists on cottage pie. 9. Leftover turkey curry If you’re craving some spice after your traditional Christmas lunch, then this leftover turkey tikka masala is a great way to repurpose your leftover turkey. Made using double cream and yogurt, this curry is the perfect balance of rich and creamy while being packed with the strong flavours of chilli, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander and garam masala. Try these leftover Christmas turkey recipes to transform your roast turkey into more filling meals. 10. Boxing Day soup Warm up with a wholesome soup made from Christmas Day veg. This recipe not only feels light after all the festive indulgence, but also transforms your leftover vegetables into a lovely lunch. Discover more hearty soup recipes with our winter soup recipes. 11. Christmas leftovers pizza Make the most of your Christmas leftovers with a simple twist on pizza. This Christmas pizza is a laid-back way to enjoy the remnants of your holiday feast without much fuss. Just load up your base with whatever you have remaining and enjoy while watching a festive film. If you’re feeling more energetic, why not make your pizza base from scratch? Our pizza margherita in 4 easy steps is a good place to start. 12. Leftovers roast chicken pad Thai Want to make the most of your leftover roast chicken? All you need is a pad Thai sauce and noodles to transform it into something new. This meal can be on your table in only 30 minutes and the kick from the sriracha and chilli will be welcome after all the rich Christmas food. Discover more of our Thai-inspired recipes. 13. Easy leftover chicken curry Whip up a quick and easy leftover chicken curry with just 10 ingredients. This no-fuss dinner idea is egg-free, nut-free and low in sugar, and it packs a punch of flavour. Plus, the addition of sugar snap peas brings a touch of sweetness. Find more budget-friendly meal ideas with our leftover chicken recipes. 14. Leftover turkey wraps with cranberry sauce Craft a simple lunch using surplus cranberry sauce, red cabbage and turkey. It's a convenient no-cook option, especially when you've already spent a lot of time in the kitchen over the holidays. Check out our no-cook recipes for more speedy supper ideas that don’t require you to turn on the hob or oven. 15. Leftover turkey casserole This one-pot stew uses up all your roast dinner leftovers in one go and has a great honey-mustard tang. Simply soften the onions and apples before stirring in sage, stock, mustard and honey. Then, add your leftovers and simmer for 15 minutes – voila! Boxing Day desserts 16. Christmas pudding cheesecake Combine Christmas pudding with cheesecake and what do you get? This fantastic alternative festive dessert with a crunchy ginger base and creamy filling. Discover more Christmas cheesecake recipes. 17. Christmas brownies If you have an abundance of edible gifts you would like to repurpose, look no further. Our Christmas brownies are full of chocolate truffles, amaretti biscuits and chocolate buttons. Try more Christmas brownie recipes, flavoured with mulled wine, cranberries and other festive delights. 18. Christmas rocky road Another recipe that’s great for using leftover Christmas sweets and biscuits is our Christmas rocky road. It’s a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen, as they'll relish the chance to bash the biscuits. Try our rocky road recipes for more recipes loved by kids and grownups alike. 19. Rye Christmas pudding cookies Transform leftover Christmas pudding into thesemoreish cookies. Even pudding sceptics will be swayed by these soft, buttery rye bakes, which taste of Christmas. Repurpose your Christmas pudding with our leftover Christmas pudding recipes. 20. Christmas pudding trifle Use leftover Christmas pudding to rustle up this speedy, creamy trifle with Grand Marnier-infused oranges. Try more of our Christmas trifle recipes, which make a great showstopping pudding. Like these recipes? Check out more ways to use Christmas leftovers... Video: how to use up leftover Christmas pudding Top 10 ways with leftover turkey 10 ways with leftover Christmas desserts What are your favourite Christmas leftover recipes? Leave a comment below...
Make a quick and easy Boxing Day dinner using up your Christmas Day leftovers. Whip up spicy noodles, some comforting gnocchi or a simple yet filling salad.
Everyone's had a lie-in, you've been in your new pyjamas all day and now you're craving something speedy and satisfying for dinner. Boxing Day is the one day everyone looks forward to leftovers, but you can do so much better than turkey sandwiches. Dare we say, you may even prefer these tempting dishes to Christmas dinner itself. Plus, all these Boxing Day recipes take 20 minutes or less to make, allowing you more time to spend with the family. See our family dinner ideas for Christmas leftovers for more dinner inspiration. 1. Chicken tikka masala pizza Skip stretching the pizza dough and pile Indian toppings on a naan instead. Our chicken tikka masala naan bread pizzas boast tender chicken breast, but you could also use leftover turkey quickly warmed through in a pan with curry paste. Finish with spoonfuls of cooling natural yogurt and sweet mango chutney to balance the spices. If you're bored with heavy Christmas fare, this is the perfect antidote. 2. Poached eggs with salmon and bubble & squeak Everyone loves a potato hash, especially if topped with a runny egg and waves of smoked salmon. Our dish of poached eggs with smoked salmon and bubble & squeak is ideal for using up leftovers. Fry up your roasties with cabbage, or leftover sprouts and other Christmas veggies in this versatile dish. 3. Herby bean sausage stew If you have any chipolatas languishing in the fridge come Boxing Day, put them to good use in our herby bean sausage stew. Serve up a plateful of this comforting mix with a hunk of crusty bread for mopping up the sauce. This dish is as simple as combining six ingredients in a pan and simmering until the sauce is deliciously thick. Fill hungry tummies with even more quick winter recipes. 4. Leftover turkey fricassee Make the most of leftover roast turkey with this creamy fricassee – delicious served with potatoes or pasta. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect Boxing Day dish when you want something comforting but quick after all the festive cooking. 5. Hot 'n' spicy roasted red pepper & tomato soup Soup is the ultimate quick and filling meal. If you need something warming, try our hot 'n' spicy roasted red pepper & tomato soup. Whizz up this vibrant veggie treat in just 10 minutes. Spice not your thing? Try our earthy beetroot & onion seed soup with subtly sweet apple, or our creamy sweet potato & coconut soup – and if you have any cheese leftover from the Christmas cheeseboard, melt it on toast and serve alongside. 6. Pea & pasta frittata If you have pasta in the cupboard, try making our easy mint & pea frittata. This gorgeous grilled beauty needs a handful of ingredients and takes just five minutes to prep. It's also delicious served cold with a simple green salad and your leftover Christmas trimmings. Everyone will want a slice! Find even more fabulous fillings in our frittata recipe collection. 7. Leftover turkey korma Turn your Christmas leftovers into a flavour-packed turkey curry. Mildly spiced and family-friendly, it’s delicious served with rice, naan and a spoonful of mango chutney. This simple dish is a great way to use up leftover turkey while bringing fresh, vibrant flavours to the table after all those rich, gravy-laden meals. 8. Charred brussels, beetroot & bulgur salad Give much-maligned sprouts some love with our charred Brussels, beetroot & bulgur salad. Use up a festive surplus, including blue cheese, in this casual throw-together dish that'll set you well on the way to five-a-day. Griddling your sprouts gives them an irresistible subtle smoky flavour while the creamy and sharp dressing is the perfect complement to earthy beetroot. 9. Gnocchi with mushrooms & blue cheese Want a change from pasta? Make the most of your cheeseboard leftovers and try our gnocchi with mushrooms & blue cheese. Either use a soft, creamy goat's cheese or a strong blue cheese like stilton to flavour these pillowy potato parcels. Enjoy with a slab of garlic bread for a filling vegetarian feast. If you want even less washing up, make our sausage, kale & gnocchi one-pot with chipolatas. Want more inspiration for speedy vegetarian suppers? Check out our quick vegetarian recipes collection. 10. Easy leftover chicken curry Perfect for Boxing Day or any weeknight after a roast chicken, this versatile curry is a great way to use up what’s in your fridge. We’ve used sugar snap peas, but any veg will work – just finish with a sprinkle of fresh chilli and coriander for extra flavour. Like these easy recipes? Get more quick dinner ideas... Quick and healthy dinner recipes Speedy cake recipes 10 quick vegetarian meal ideas What's your favourite quick-fix dinner? Leave a comment below...
Stirring up a traditional fruitcake this season? Read on for our easy guide to feeding a cake and which alcohol to use, plus discover our best ever fruitcake recipes.
Whether you’re preparing your Christmas cake ahead of the big day or baking a rich fruitcake for another special occasion, chances are you’ll be feeding your cake – and we’ve got all the tips you need to get it just right. Start by reading our handy guide on Stir-up Sunday to learn more about this time-honoured tradition and discover a selection of recipes that are perfect for getting ahead during the festive season. Then explore even more Stir-up Sunday recipes and classic Christmas recipes you can make ahead to help you plan, bake and enjoy a stress-free Christmas. Why do you feed a cake? There are a lot of benefits to feeding a fruitcake. It will help keep your cake moist (especially if you are storing it for a while) as well as give it extra flavour – and, if you're a little heavy-handed, it will also develop that characteristic boozy kick. If you intend to keep your fruitcake for a long time (like more than three months), freeze it either before or after feeding it. Will this work for any fruitcake? Traditional fruitcakes are dark, rich, packed with fruit, high in sugar, and often baked for several hours. They'll keep for a long time, so feeding helps maintain a soft texture. Modern fruitcakes tend to be lighter in colour and texture, and are cooked for less time. These also keep for a shorter length of time, and the alcohol soaks into the cake in a different way. While you can feed either type of fruitcake, you'll want to keep an eye on how the alcohol is absorbed and stop when they’ve had enough. For example, if your cake leaves a damp patch on your work surface, stop feeding it for a couple of weeks. How often should you feed a Christmas cake? The amount of times you feed your fruitcake will depend on how strong you want the flavour to be. It’s possible to overfeed your cake, which will make it stodgy and wet. Our advice is to feed it once after it's initially baked, then no more than four times during the maturation period. If you're planning a stunning sweet centrepiece for the big day, take a look at our Christmas cake recipe collection. What alcohol should you use? Strong, flavourful spirits with a high ABV are ideal for feeding fruitcakes. You can use rum, brandy or whisky for spice, or if you like citrus flavours, try an orange liqueur. Cherry brandy and amaretto will also work well if you prefer these. What to use instead of alcohol If you’d rather skip the alcohol, there are plenty of ways to keep your fruitcake moist and full of flavour. Try using strong, unsweetened tea, such as Earl Grey or English breakfast, for a subtle warmth, or fruit juice like orange or apple for a natural sweetness. You can also use alcohol-free spirits or spiced syrups for a similar depth of flavour. Brush or drizzle them over the cake in the same way you would with alcohol. If you’re using non-alcoholic liquids, the feeding time will be shorter, so avoid feeding the cake more than a month in advance. Steps for how to feed a Christmas cake Poke holes in your just-cooked cake with a skewer, then spoon over 2 tbsp alcohol until it has all soaked in. Leave the cake to cool completely in the tin. Peel off the baking parchment, then wrap well in a clean sheet of baking parchment followed by a sheet of foil or a wax wrap. Feed the cake with 1-2 tbsp alcohol every fortnight until you ice it, re-wrapping it each time. Don’t feed the cake for the final week to give the surface a chance to dry before icing. How to store a Christmas cake Once your Christmas cake has completely cooled, remove it from the tin and peel away the baking parchment. Wrap the cake in a new layer of baking parchment, then cover it with a sheet of foil. Place it in an airtight container or a cake tin with a tight-fitting lid, and store it in a cool, dry, dark place such as a cupboard or pantry. Avoid wrapping the cake directly in foil, as the fruit can react with it over time. If you’re feeding your cake, unwrap it every couple of weeks to add your chosen liquid, then rewrap it carefully. Properly stored, the cake will keep well for several months and continue to develop its flavour. You can also freeze Christmas cake, either whole or in slices, for up to six months. Wrap it tightly, then defrost at room temperature before serving or decorating. Our best ever Christmas cake recipes 1. Make & mature Christmas cake You can't go wrong with our classic make & mature Christmas cake. Feed it regularly with rum, brandy or whisky for a hit of spicy flavour. Watch our video on how to ice a cake to master marzipan and icing. 2. Golden amaretti Christmas cake Our eye-catching golden amaretti Christmas cake uses a simple all-in-one method, so you won't need to spend hours in the kitchen. Get creative with edible gold spray paint and crushed amaretti biscuits. 3. Buttered rum Christmas cake Switch up the standard recipe with a cake that takes flavour inspiration from a favourite festive drink. Our buttered rum Christmas cake is packed with fruit, nuts and sweet maple syrup. 4. Vegan Christmas cake No one should miss out on Christmas traditions! Substitute eggs for chia seeds in this vegan take on a traditional Christmas cake. The coconut oil adds a great background flavour and keeps the cake moist. 5. Salted caramel Christmas cake Try a modern twist on a traditional Christmas cake with this salted caramel version. Laced with chunks of toffee and dates, plus a crunchy, nutty topping, it’s a real treat. Mastered this method? Check out our other Christmas recipes and tips Christmas cake decorating ideas Christmas cupcake recipes Our easiest ever Christmas cake recipes Our best Christmas desserts What's your favourite Christmas cake recipe? Leave a comment below...
This creamy pasta recipe is the tastiest way to eat your leftover pumpkin
Make the most of pumpkins this autumn with our top 10 ways to use up leftovers after Halloween. Cook a creamy pumpkin pasta, a warming bowl of soup or bake a showstopping pie, the choice is yours!
You've carved a fun design and displayed it with pride, now, what to do with your Halloween pumpkin? Each year the Good Food team views Halloween as a great opportunity to turn leftovers into something delicious, from spectacular soups to comforting puds. This year, however, there is one recipe in particular that is grabbing our attention: our irresistible creamy pumpkin pasta. When puréed and combined with mascarpone and parmesan, the pumpkin flesh transforms into a silky, delicious pasta sauce, perfect for an autumnal dinner which also feels like a treat. Keep reading to uncover nine more dishes from our recipe archive, each celebrating the very best of this iconic gourd, including trending pumpkin soup and pumpkin pie ideas. Make more fabulous seasonal bakes and filling autumnal meals from our pumpkin recipe collection and leftover pumpkin collection. We also have our round-up of pumpkin carving ideas, pumpkin purée recipes and pumpkin recipes to make with kids, or go the extra mile with a fun family outing to one of the UK's best pumpkin patches. 1. Creamy pumpkin pasta Arguably the tastiest way to eat your pumpkin leftovers, our recipe blitzes pumpkin into a smooth purée and combines with mascarpone and parmesan to make a deliciously silky pasta sauce. It's so easy to rustle up, with rigatoni making the perfect match for the creamy sauce. When you're ready to serve, make sure to season and scatter with a blanket of parmesan for a dish that tastes like autumn in a bowl. 2. Creamy pumpkin & lentil soup Use soft pumpkin flesh to make a creamy pumpkin & lentil soup, topped with crunchy roasted pumpkin seeds. This wholesome seasonal bowlful makes a great family-friendly dinner, served with hunks of crusty bread or buttery garlic bread. Blitz your ingredients in a blender with crème fraîche for a silky smooth soup that packs plenty of flavour. 3. Classic pumpkin pie Fill your kitchen with mouth-watering seasonal aromas and treat yourself to a slice of classic pumpkin pie with pecan & maple cream. Use up your lantern carvings and create something delicious in the process. Enjoy a substantial slab with a dollop of cream for a dreamy dessert or afternoon pick-me-up. 4. Slow-cooker pumpkin soup Looking for ways to put your slow-cooker to good use? Put in a little effort the night before and you can have a velvety pumpkin soup ready as a starter for a special autumnal dinner with guests. This vegan recipe serves six generously, plus it's low in fat and calories. If your pumpkin or squash isn’t quite big enough to make up the required weight, you can supplement it with chopped carrots. 5. Pumpkin pasta alla vodka Indulge in something savoury with this vegetarain pumpkin pasta alla vodka, topped with sage leaves for a rustic finish. It's easy to make, plus it's a brilliant way of making the most of this majestic gourd. Vodka and chilli flakes provide a lovely deep flavour, too. 6. Squidgy pumpkin & ginger loaf A slice of our squidgy pumpkin & ginger loaf, with a warming cup of tea, is the perfect antidote to chilly evenings. This dense loaf, laced with black treacle, golden syrup and aromatic spices tastes even better having been left for a couple of days for the flavours to mature. Try a thick slice, smeared with butter. 7. Pumpkin hummus Turn your carved out pumpkin into a spooky centrepiece with our creamy pumpkin hummus. The nutty tahini, roasted garlic and earthy pumpkin make for a moreish dip – everyone will be going back for seconds of this simple, healthy snack. Serve it in the pumpkin shell for an eye-catching display. 8. Pumpkin pancakes Believe it or not, you can turn chunks of pumpkin into a mouth-watering brunch treat. Our pumpkin pancakes with salted pecan butterscotch are a seriously impressive stack. Soft, fluffy pancakes; salty, sweet sauce; crunchy pecans and a dollop of vanilla ice cream make for a truly decadent start to the day. Or, try our healthy pumpkin pancakes with fresh fruit and crème fraîche. 9. Pumpkin curry with chickpeas No one could turn down a bowl of our pumpkin curry with chickpeas and fluffy naan. Soft chunks of pumpkin make a great base for this veggie main, it also makes a delicious side dish paired with roast meat or fish. It tastes even better the next day after the flavours have had a change to intensify. 10. Pumpkin pie s'mores Merge two USA classics into one bite-sized treat. Our easy pumpkin pie s'mores with melty marshmallow filling and warming ginger biscuits are a gooey delight. Add a sprinkling of cinnamon for a hint of sweetness and spice. Enjoyed these recipes? Try our other autumnal dishes... Top 10 autumn recipes 10 autumn drinks you must try 10 new ways with pumpkin Our best ever vegetarian autumn recipes What's your favourite way to use up leftover pumpkin? Leave a comment below...
Make a homemade version of your favourite takeaway with our top fakeaway recipes – perfect for a family night in or for kicking off the weekend in style.
We've got sharing food for every mood, taste and cuisine craving. The Friday night takeaway signals the start of the weekend. Good Food has the perfect family favourite recipes for when you're ready for some serious comfort food with minimal fuss. For a burst of flavour, with both spicy and mild dishes, follow our Indian fakeaway recipes collection. Another typical tasty takeaway is Chinese and we have the perfect Chinese fakeaway recipes at your fingerprints, with classic sweet and sour flavours, salt and pepper chicken and a cracking chow mein. Other homemade possibilities include crispy and succulent fried chicken, a delicious range of chicken curry recipes and vegan takeaway recipes, which includes meat-and dairy-free versions of our favourites from international cuisine. Discover more homemade takeaway recipes. Our top 10 fakeaway recipes 1. Easy butter chicken This healthy version of a creamy chicken curry can be marinated the night before to get ahead of the prep work. Serve up this wonder-curry with fluffy naan breads, basmati rice, mango chutney or pickles and wedges of lime. Why not serve up our chunky aubergine pickle on the side and even top up your meal with our simple mango chutney naan breads. 2. Mozzarella stuffed crust pizza No Friday would be complete without a seriously cheesy pizza. Go the extra mile and create this mozzarella masterpiece at home, complete with oozy, chunky filled crust. 3. Classic Fish and chips You can't beat a classic. Try making your own fried fish at home with this . Pair with chunky, golden brown oven-baked chips or change it up with sweet potato fries. 4. Turkish kebabs with flatbreads and tomato chilli sauce Superbly spiced chicken kebabs are full of flavour and are a great build-you-own sharing meal. Wrap the kebabs in toasted cumin flatbreads, with a dollop of cooling yogurt and crunchy pickles. Pair with this fresh tomato chutney. 5. Singapore noodles with prawns Why not go for a low-fat, low-calorie stir-fry takeaway? It'll be on the table in 20 minutes and is packed with spices and flavour. Sprinkle over coriander and watch it fly off the plates. Try our healthier version of Singapore noodles with prawns. Expand your spread by adding pineapple, beef & ginger stir-fry or tofu, greens & cashew stir-fry. 6. Chicken katsu curry Got a craving for creamy curry sauce and golden brown crispy chicken? One sniff of our easy homemade katsu curry is sure to whet your appetite. Serve with crunchy veg ribbons, fluffy rice and lashings of our aromatic, creamy coconut sauce. Get more colourful curry inspiration with our favourite katsu curry recipes. 7. Classic Swedish meatballs Missing your favourite comfort food dish from homeware shopping pilgrimages? Make our classic Swedish meatballs for a filling family supper. Pair with cranberry jelly, greens and creamy mashed potato or a fresh potato salad. Try even more meaty classics or twists like brilliant burgers with our favourite Swedish meatball recipes. 8. The big double cheeseburger & secret sauce 9. Seitan & black bean stir-fry 10. Soy & chilli chicken with peppers & peanuts Like these? You might also enjoy... Chinese chicken with pancakes Mozzarella stuffed crust pizza Wrap-your-own spring rolls What's your favourite Friday night takeaway? Let us know in the comments below...
Your turn to cook the big Christmas meal? Let us take away the stress with this modern, time-saving celebration menu featuring our simplest festive recipes.
Looking for a quick and easy Christmas dinner menu? Cookery writer Sophie Godwin has created the ultimate simplified menu for a stress-free day. With a range of time-saving techniques and showstopping flavour twists, this is the only festive menu you'll ever need. Embrace the art of the shortcut! In order to speed up your preparations, we've used a small turkey (no more than 4kg), which is cooked rapidly at a high temperature (200C/180C fan/gas 6), like a chicken. As it comes out of the oven hotter than usual, It needs longer to rest so the meat can relax and stay succulent. If meat isn't your modus operandi, take a look at our veggie and vegan Christmas menus. We've also got a gluten-free menu, as well as a healthy Christmas menu if you don't want to go too overboard this festive season. For time-saving tips, see our last-minute Christmas dinner menu or our quick Christmas menu. Whether you're feeding a crowd, six people or just the two this year, we've got you covered. Next, discover more easy Christmas dinners. Your timeplan to eat at 2pm View and print our at-a-glance infographic time plan. 11am Take your turkey out of the fridge. 11.30am Heat the oven. Prepare the rosemary butter and rub underneath the turkey skin. 12pm Put the turkey in the oven to roast. 12.15pm Boil the potatoes and root vegetables. Make the harissa & orange marmalade glaze. Chop the ingredients for the stuffing sprouts. 1pm Baste the turkey, pour in the white wine and nestle cabbage wedges around the bird. Return to the oven. 1.10pm Prepare the separate ingredients for the mackerel starter (or your goat's cheese tartines). 1.25pm Smash the roasties and put them in the oven. 1.30pm Check the turkey – take out to rest if the internal temperature has reached 75C. If not done, carry on cooking for a further 5-10 mins. Return the cabbage to the oven to finish cooking. 1.35pm Toss the roasted roots in the harissa glaze, then put in the oven. 1.40pm Make the gravy, cook the sprouts and keep warm. 2pm Sit down to eat the starter, with everything for your lunch ready to go. The dessert takes just 10 minutes to assemble, so you can do it once you've enjoyed the main course. Quick & easy Christmas dinner menu Christmas turkey There's no switching temperatures with this bird, just some serious roasting, flavoured with rosemary and garlic. The turkey is cooked high and fast like a chicken, giving it extra crispy skin. As it comes out of the oven hotter than usual, it needs longer to rest so the meat can relax and stay succulent. Smashed roasties Roasties really don't get easier than these smashed potatoes with just two ingredients. Boiling them for longer then smashing them makes for more surface area, meaning extra crispy bits for everyone! Harissa & marmalade roasted roots These easy roasted root veggies are cooked with aromatic harissa and a big dollop of sweet marmalade that leads to delicious, caramelised beauties. All they require is boiling for a couple of minutes, roasting and coating. Stuffing sprouts Stuffing meets sprouts in this super simple side dish. Anyone who's not totally sold on brilliant Brussels is sure to be won over by these golden toasted veggies. Peppered mackerel & pink pickled onion salad This mackerel starter with its quick pickled onion is impressive, and it takes little time as it's part of making your dressing. This can be assembled while your turkey's in the oven. For an alternative to fish, try our quick and easy goat's cheese, pear & walnut tartines. Black forest Christmas fool And finally, the easiest-ever chocolatey dessert. This indulgent Black Forest treat can be whipped up in ten minutes flat and requires no forward prepping. If you fancy a non-alcoholic version, feel free to substitute a can of cherries in syrup. Want to top off your menu with some simple prosecco cocktails? Get in the party spirit with these easy seasonal drinks. For more inspiration visit our Christmas dinner page, or browse our other Christmas menus... Complete Christmas menu: Classic Complete Christmas menu: Vegetarian Vegan Christmas menu Gluten-free Christmas menu Complete Christmas menu: Quick 2 hour Christmas menu Complete Christmas menu: For a crowd Complete Christmas menu: For two All our Christmas menus What are your easiest-ever Christmas shortcuts? Let us know in the comments below...
Enjoy a stress-free Christmas Day with our festive menu plan. Your guests will marvel at a glazed turkey crown, trimmings and tempting dessert.
Juggling the kids' excitement at opening presents with trying to cook Christmas dinner is no easy task, so make it super simple with our no-fuss menu. Achieving the perfect turkey roast with all the trimmings doesn't have to mean sweating over a stove for hours when you know all the festive hacks. The other advantage of this approach is that you'll have more time to spend with your loved ones. Our menu serves around four people, so it's ideal for the average family. Get more speedy festive inspiration with our quick Christmas recipes, 10 quick Christmas breakfasts, quick Christmas canapé ideas and quick Christmas gift recipes for last-minute gifting. 2-hour Christmas dinner menu Easy turkey crown You cannot fail to get a golden-brown finish with this easy turkey crown that cooks in just 1 hour 30 minutes (after only 10 minutes' prep). We've used the traditional glaze you would get on a ham to give the turkey this beautiful colour and of course, plenty of festive flavour. Baste it a few times during cooking for a stunning Christmas centrepiece. With the time you save on the main event, you may want to check out our 10 quick Christmas starters. All-the-trimmings traybake While your turkey is in the oven, spend 15 minutes prepping your veggies for a festive traybake. By roasting your sprouts with the potatoes, pigs in blankets and root veg, you'll also save time on washing-up after dinner. We use spoonfuls of sticky caramelised onion chutney along with traditional seasonings to create a subtly spiced, sweet flavour. Stir-fried festive cabbage With the veg and the turkey both cooking in the oven, you're free to assemble our 20-minute stir-fried red cabbage. With cranberry sauce, red wine and orange, this dish is bursting with seasonal flavours that are as vivid as the colour they bring to the table. This side dish also makes a fresh and zingy, healthy addition to an otherwise rich, no-stress roast. Black Forest Christmas fool For the final festive flourish, whip up our indulgent Black Forest fools, which you can make ahead before putting the turkey in the oven, or even just after eating it. With a grand total of 10 minutes prep time, it's up to you. As well as being quick, these creamy puds use storecupboard ingredients – and if you want to make a non-alcoholic version, use a can of cherries in syrup instead of kirsch. You may also want to browse other quick desserts. Want a plan that takes all the stress out of Christmas dinner? Try our easiest ever or next level menu plans, complete with timeplan, pre-loaded shopping list (to print out or use for online shopping) and all the recipes you'll need for the big day. What's your ultimate cooking shortcut? Leave a comment below, then check out more Christmas menus... Vegetarian Christmas menu Vegan Christmas menu Gluten-free Christmas menu Quick Christmas menu Classic Christmas menu Christmas menu for a crowd Christmas menu for two Easiest ever Christmas menu Next level Christmas menu Budget Christmas menu
Stir up one of our top celebratory cocktails to ring in New Year's Eve with a bang. Try a festive version of a classic negroni or the ever-popular espresso martini and raise a glass to the new year.
Pop the prosecco, crack out the cocktail shaker and dust off that bottle of whisky you've been saving. Choose your favourites from our top dazzling New Year's Eve drinks and celebrate in style with cocktails and mocktails to suit every taste. Pair your drinks with the best nibbles from our canapé selection and stunning main courses from our New Year's dinner ideas. Finish off with one of our delectable dessert recipes to round out the evening and get even more inspiration with our complete collection of New Year's Eve cocktail recipes. 1. Singapore sling Inject tropical flavours into your New Year's Eve cocktail menu with a classic Singapore sling. Mix festive cherry brandy with bitters, herbal liqueur and fruit juice to make this eye-catching, gin-based tipple. Make the most of any bottles going spare with our best ever gin cocktail recipes. 2. Winter whiskey sour Give the confirmed classic a festive makeover with our winter whiskey sour. This simple recipe is a must-try for bourbon fans. Sweet and sour notes are perfectly balanced with a splash of fresh citrus and dash of sugar syrup. Add some edible gold glitter for extra sparkle. Need help choosing your bourbon base? Read our review of the 10 best bourbon whiskies – taste tested. 3. Festive negroni If a negroni is your cocktail of choice, try this spice-laced version. Our festive negroni is made with cinnamon, star anise and bay leaves for a new twist on the Italian classic. After tasting one, it'll be hard to go back to the original. 4. Peppermint mojito There's nothing wrong with keeping the festive vibes going into the new year. Combine the classic mojito with Christmassy peppermint in this candy-cane-inspired peppermint mojito cocktail. To prep for a party you could make some mint syrup in advance. Don't forget the colourful candy canes to garnish. 5. Pomegranate martini mocktail Make the most of this seasonal fruit in our pomegranate martini mocktail – a blend of pomegranate juice, non-alcoholic gin and orange juice. It's a good alcohol-free option for any guests not on the booze this New Year's Eve. Discover more of our mocktail ideas that'll please everyone. 6. Mulled orange wine Put a stylish spin on the classic winter cocktail with mulled orange wine. Make a big batch with seasonal fruit and warming whole spices for a crowd-pleasing drink that will go down a treat. 7. Black Russian Our coffee-laced black Russian is the perfect after-dinner pick-me-up. It can be served short or as a long drink topped up with cola. And because there are no syrups in the recipe you won't need to prepare anything in advance. Try another caffeinated cocktail in the form of our upcycled white Russian, made with cream, vanilla, rum and coffee grounds. Kick your evening up a notch with even more coffee cocktail recipes. 8. Grapefruit spritz Cut through all that Christmas feasting with a sharp grapefruit spritz, a drink bursting with citrus flavours. Garnish with a twist of grapefruit zest to bring a touch of summer to your celebrations. Raise a glass to our favourite easy cocktail recipes for stress-free entertaining. 9. Espresso martini Always a favourite, our espresso martini is easy to make and will help keep you going until midnight. The recipe calls for freshly brewed espresso, a dash of coffee liqueur and a simple sugar syrup. Make sure you really give this a good go in the cocktail shaker to create a beautifully foamy top. For a version with a bit less alcohol, try our espresso shrub martini or make an espresso eggnog martini for a twist. 10. Spice 75 Elevate a standard bottle of bubbles with our sophisticated spice 75. It's a taste of the festive season in a glass. A little sweetness, spice and some rum make this the perfect winter warmer, all wrapped up in an elegant package. Want more brilliant uses for your bubbly? Check out champagne cocktails you can make in minutes. Enjoyed these cocktails? Check out our other drinks recipes Two-ingredient cocktails Fruity cocktail recipes The best cocktail shakers A guide to classic cocktails Easy prosecco cocktails What's your favourite festive drink? Leave a comment below...