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...
A festively flavoured cheesecake makes for a crowdpleasing Christmas dessert – here are some of our favourite recipes
That irresistible combination of creamy sweetness and buttery biscuit base makes a slice of cheesecake hard to resist. We've picked the best festive cheesecake recipes for you and your guests to enjoy this Christmas. For more inspiration, discover our best Christmas pudding recipes, top Christmas brownie recipes, favourite Christmas cake recipes, Christmas trifle recipes and our best Christmas desserts – plus even more Christmas cheesecake recipes. 10 festive cheesecakes to make ahead 1. Mince pie cheesecake Make the most of leftover mince pies by blitzing them into the ginger biscuit base of this cheesecake. Fold mincemeat into the creamy filling for even more festive flavour. Try more twists on mince pies. 2. Gingerbread cheesecake This lightly spiced cheesecake is topped with homemade gingerbread people for a family-friendly festive dessert. It's a no-bake winner that takes just 25 minutes to prep. Discover more no-bake cheesecake recipes. 3. Espresso martini cheesecake Keep the grown-ups happy during the festive season with this coffee liqueur-spiked dessert. Soured cream adds a sophisticated touch to offset the sweetness of the cheesecake. Discover more twists on an espresso martini. 4. Chocolate orange baked cheesecake Chocolate orange is another great festive flavour combination, and this cheesecake pulls out all the stops with a creamy baked filling topped with candied orange slices. Try more chocolate orange recipes. 5. Christmas pudding cheesecake At Good Food we love it when a mash-up comes together, particularly when pudding is involved. This Christmas pudding cheesecake mixes Christmas pudding with a splash of stout, brandy and the all-important cream cheese. Dollop onto a ginger biscuit base for a dessert that's sure to leave everyone smiling. 6. Millionaire's cheesecake A stunning way to round off your Christmas meal, this chocolate and caramel cheesecake never fails to go down a treat. Star sprinkles or chocolate stars make it a real celebration. Try more chocolate cheesecake recipes to make for the chocolate lovers in your life. 7. Brandy butter caramel pears with spiced basque-style cheesecake Make an indulgent Christmas cheesecake with poached pears baked into a basque-inspired cheesecake, drizzled with a brandy butter caramel. It's an easy dessert to wow guests. 8. Baked vegan cheesecake with raspberries & clementine You'd never guess this baked cheesecake is made entirely without butter, eggs or milk. Soaked cashews and coconut cream make the rich filling, while the base makes clever use of oats and coconut oil. Now our most indulgent vegan Christmas desserts. 9. Spiced apple cheesecake If you need a dessert you can make ahead of time and you're a fan of Christmas spices, try our spiced apple cheesecake. Ricotta keeps the filling light and creamy while the cinnamon and ginger apple topping will satisfy a sweet tooth. Serve with a luscious brandy syrup sauce for ultimate luxury. 10. Iced chestnut ripple Chocolate and chestnut are a dreamy, Christmassy combination fully exploited in this iced chestnut ripple cheesecake. Drizzle with a rum-laced chestnut syrup for the final delicious flourish and serve with a warming glass of rum, if you like. Discover our best chestnut recipes. Want more inspiration? Here are easy cheesecake toppings to jazz up a vanilla base... View Green Video on the source website Like these recipes? Try other sweet treats... Video: easiest ever chocolate cheesecake Video: how to make cheesecake Video: how to make a biscuit base What's your favourite festive cheesecake flavour? Leave a comment below...
Bake all kinds of delicious flapjacks with our easy recipes. Get creative by adding dried fruit, nuts, chocolate or even a savoury cheese twist
Anyone can turn a bowl of humble oats into something magical just with butter and a drizzle of golden syrup, but by adding a few other choice ingredients, you can take flapjacks to the next level. They're perfect for bake sales, coffee mornings or simply an afternoon pick-me-up. Our sensational traybakes are so versatile the possibilities are endless. Whether you fancy layers of caramel and chocolate, spicy ginger or a traditional take, we have the best recipes. For even more oaty ideas, check out our collection of flapjack recipes. Want a helpful step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect flapjacks? Check out our video demonstrating two terrific recipes. View Green Video on the source website 20 easy flapjack recipes 1. Golden syrup flapjacks You're just four ingredients and 30 minutes away from spectacular golden syrup flapjacks. This classic recipe is so adaptable, you can customise it with chocolate drops, desiccated coconut, sultanas or almost anything you like. Beautifully buttery, we guarantee they'll disappear in seconds. Discover more irresistibly sweet and sticky bakes with our golden syrup recipes. 2. Sticky plum flapjack bars This recipe is so simple, kids can get involved with the weighing, mixing and measuring. Our sticky plum flapjack bars with mixed spice are an autumnal treat. Use up a glut of plump fruit and indulge. Serve with cream, custard, ice cream or pack one into your lunchbox for a midday pick-me-up. Discover more plum recipes for inspiration on ways to use this soft, sweet and juicy fruit. 3. Chocolate & caramel flapjacks Try a different take on millionaire's shortbread with our chocolate & caramel flapjacks. These easy sticky desserts are perfect bake sale material, or make a few to box up for a handmade gift. They're best made a day in advance to give the caramel time to set overnight. Whether you prefer your caramel plain or salted, these caramel recipes are sure to please everyone. 4. Apple flapjacks These flapjacks give a fruity twist to the classic oat bake, combining fresh and dried apple. They’re perfect in autumn when apples are at their best, but just as delicious any time of year. Treat yourself to one of our comforting apple desserts. 5. Raspberry honey flapjacks Using just five ingredients, these raspberry honey flapjacks are super easy to whip up for a mid-morning snack. Frozen raspberries work better than fresh here as they maintain their shape when baking. These summer berries are perfect for blending into smoothies, baking into cakes and much more. Check out our raspberry recipes for inspiration. 6. Blackberry & hazelnut crumble flapjack These fruit-filled flapjacks work beautifully with any soft, seasonal berries – think sweet strawberries and cherries in the height of summer, or juicy blackberries as autumn approaches. Use foraged or shop-bought blackberries to make cheesecakes, jams and more with our blackberry recipes. 7. Healthy flapjacks Looking to reduce your sugar intake? Bake a batch of healthy flapjacks using dates and walnuts for a feel-good treat. These vegan snacks make the most of mashed bananas and dates as natural sweeteners. Discover more healthy savoury snack recipes as well as energy-boosting snack recipes. 8. Chocolate coconut flapjacks Give flapjacks a twist with coconut. These bars look as good as they taste, with a marbled chocolate top. Check out more desiccated coconut recipes for inspiration, from cakes and bakes to curries and chicken. 9. Apricot, honey & pistachio flapjacks Spend just five minutes in the kitchen mixing up a batch of our apricot, honey & pistachio flapjacks. These sophisticated squares use just six ingredients, including crunchy nuts and chewy dried apricots for extra texture. Resist diving into your dessert until it's fully cooled to make sure your slices stay whole. Try experimenting with different fruit and nut combinations to find your favourite. Add a burst of fruity sweetness with more of our dried apricot recipes. 10. Seeded cheese & chive flapjacks Flapjacks don’t have to be just for those with a sweet tooth. Our cheese and chive version makes a savoury snack that’s great for a quick on-the-go boost. In a rush but don’t want to skip breakfast? Discover more of our on-the-go breakfast ideas. 11. Ginger flapjacks Our ginger flapjacks are a little something special. Delicately flavoured with coconut and topped with a punchy layer of ginger, these are the ideal accompaniment to your afternoon cuppa. We use both ground and crystallised ginger to get a suitably spicy icing that balances the sweetness of the flapjack. 12. Mincemeat flapjacks Craving festive flavours but tired of the usual mince pies? These mincemeat flapjacks pack in all the Christmas nostalgia without the fuss of pastry – and they use just seven simple ingredients. 13. Coffee & walnut flapjacks Coffee isn't just for cake. Try our decadent coffee & walnut flapjacks for a grown-up treat that's sure to please. Give this classic flavour combo a twist with a dense, sticky flapjack base and buttery icing. A shot of espresso in the oat mix adds an extra level of flavour. Top each square with a whole walnut for a professional finish. Looking for easy bakes to impress at your next coffee morning? Check out our best coffee morning recipes. 14. White chocolate and raspberry flapjacks Treat someone to a batch of these white chocolate & raspberry flapjacks. The flapjacks are studded with tart freeze-dried raspberries and creamy white chocolate chips, then topped with fresh berries and a thick layer of white chocolate. 15. Chocolate orange flapjacks Use rich dark chocolate and light orange to make these fab flapjacks. Adding both the zest and the juice ensures a stronger, zingy flavour and a better consistency. Our chocolate orange flapjacks are a great weekend bake to enjoy with coffee at leisure. These chewy beauties are a surefire crowd-pleaser. Celebrate this heavenly combination with more chocolate orange recipes. 16. Lemon drizzle flapjacks If you're partial to a slice of lemon drizzle cake, you'll love our lemon drizzle flapjacks. This simple flapjack is the dessert mash-up of our dreams and you can make it in just two steps. The sharp lemon curd icing pairs perfectly with the sweet oaty base. Ideal for slicing and sharing with friends at an afternoon tea. Watch our video and learn how to make our next level lemon drizzle flapjacks. 17. Vegan flapjacks Flapjacks are often made with butter, but using dairy-free spread in this vegan flapjacks recipe means everyone can enjoy them. We've added chopped nuts and dried fruit, but use the vegan flapjack base as a starting point for vegan versions of any of these flapjack recipes, adding your own mix-ins. 18. Peanut butter & jam flapjacks Classic British flapjacks get an all-American makeover with this peanut butter & jam version. Get creative and use any flavour of jam you like, and swirl into the nutty base. 19. Carrot cake fridge flapjacks Perfect for a picnic, these carrot cake flapjacks have plenty going on. They're studded with nuts, seeds, cranberries and apricots, while the softened dates and honey add chewiness. A drizzle of soft cheese icing to finish gives that classic carrot cake feel. 20. Feelgood flapjacks Our feelgood flapjacks use honey for sweetness and mashed banana and apple to bind everything together, so you can cut down on fat and refined sugar. These fruity bakes are packed full of texture and flavour. Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a grating of orange zest for some extra spice and citrus flavour. They'll be demolished in minutes. Like these flapjacks? See more snacks and treats... Our ultimate snack collection The best lemon dessert recipes 6 fudge recipes to make at home What are your favourite flapjack recipes? Leave a comment below...