Natalie Hardwick – Head of Digital Delivery, goodfood.com
Looking for slow cooker Christmas inspiration? Check out our easy festive feasts to make December entertaining an absolute breeze
We know you love slow cooker recipes, and that Christmas is one of the busiest times of year, so we put two and two together to bring you a selection of hassle-free feasts for December. To the uninitiated, slow cookers allow you to bung ingredients into a pot, plug it into the wall and let the gadget slowly make light work of cooking. Slow cookers are energy efficient, space-saving and often require minimum prep, so if don't already have one, you know what to add to your Christmas wishlist this year... See our easiest ever Christmas dinner for a hassle-free menu, as well as our complete collection of Christmas recipes, festive main course recipes and Christmas sides. For more comforting winter recipes see our winter one-pots, winter comfort food and slow cooker desserts. Make sure you've got the best kitchen kit for the job with our review of the best slow cookers. This guide was brought to you by Cook Smart, a campaign designed by Good Food experts to help you save money and reduce food waste. Dive into more Cook Smart content in our budget hub. Christmas recipes you can make in a slow cooker 1. Christmas turkey If you’re catering for a smaller crowd this Christmas, you can actually cook your bird in a slow cooker, freeing up crucial oven space. Our recipe uses turkey breasts bound into a parcel with string. The meaty bundle is then poached in a wine, bay and porcini liquor, which is used to make a turkey gravy to serve. You need to brown the meat first, so a slow cooker with a pot you can use on the hob would be handy here, but not essential. See our slow cooker dinner party recipes for more inspiration. 2. Slow cooker Christmas cake Why not make this year's Christmas cake in a slow cooker? You'll save on energy costs and be rewarded with a cake rich in plump dried fruit and cherries. It will keep for up to two months in a sealed cake tin. Try our air fryer Christmas cake or check out more Christmas cake recipes. 3. Christmas ham Pre-boiling a gammon uses up hob space and energy, so buying a joint that nestles neatly into your slow cooker means you can bypass the hassle. Once the ham is cooked through, finish it off in the oven with a glaze – our recipe uses ginger preserve, but marmalade, treacle or membrillo would all work instead. Read Tom Kerridge's 10 ideas for glazes here and for another inventive flavour twist, try our sticky slow cooker gammon in cola. 4. Slow cooker Christmas pudding Take the stress out of steaming with a slow-cooked Christmas pudding that's laden with fruits, nuts and spices. It can be made up to six months ahead of the big day and kept in a cool, dark place. Try our pressure-cooked Christmas pudding or check out more Christmas puddings recipes. 5. Christmas slow cooker beef brisket For melt-in-the-mouth tender beef, try this slow cooker beef brisket with star anise, cinnamon and rosemary for subtle festive flavours. Once cooled, the cooked brisket will keep frozen for up to three months, so why not get ahead and take the stress out of Christmas Day. Discover more slow cooker beef recipes. 6. Slow cooker turkey curry Using up leftover turkey need not be a challenge. You can throw any leftover veg from the big day into this slow cooker turkey recipe, too. Find out more leftover turkey recipe ideas here. 7. Slow cooker cheesy creamed greens Seasonal winter produce cavolo nero and leeks are elevated to creamy, cosy levels with double cream, Dijon mustard, grated nutmeg and salty parmesan. For more cheesy goodness, try our irresistible green veg gratin. 8. Spiced ginger beer slow cooker cabbage Let red cabbage shine this Christmas with ginger beer, festive spices and juicy apples. Taking only 15 minutes to prep, let your slow cooker do all the hard work as it simmers away for six hours. Alternatively try this simple sweet & sour slow cooker red cabbage. Try our top red cabbage recipes for more inspiration. 9. Festive pulled pork A batch of pulled pork is a good thing to have on standby when people are dropping in for a festive toast, not to mention when you have a hungry family to feed. This recipe allows the pork to cook at a glacial pace, which results in an extra-pulled, melting finish. Instead of apple and fennel, serve the pork with our Christmas coleslaw to act as a crunchy foil for all that tender meat. 10. Wintery duck tagine Looking for something to serve on Christmas Eve? One-pot recipes require minimum effort for maximum gain, allowing you to get on with important tasks like sprout-prepping and potato-peeling. This deluxe duck tagine is packed with festive flavours like cinnamon, dates and citrus. Serve with a simple couscous, then kick back and cruise into the feasting. 11. Slow cooker pork loin A succulent festive dish, our herby slow cooker pork loin recipe is accompanied by roasties, veg and a boozy honey-mustard gravy. For another winter warmer, try our slow cooker pork casserole. 12. Mulled wine The trick with mulled wine is not to let it get too hot as you’ll boil away the alcohol content, so making it in a slow cooker is an easy way to moderate the temperature. Slow cookers usually have a keep warm function, too, so your wine can stay toasty during your party. Why not try our slow cooker mulled cider next.? 13. Muscovado cheesecake with hazelnuts & blackberries Treat your guests to this sensational slow cooker cheesecake. With an oaty biscuit base, a velvety centre and zingy blackberry syrup, this dazzling dessert has all the makings of a celebratory showstopper. For sweet fiends, now try our no-bake cheesecake recipes. 14. Hot chocolate Relax at the end of the big day with a warming mug of hot chocolate. This slow cooker special is made from a mix of luxurious double cream and dark and milk chocolate. Top with marshmallows and chocolate gratings for an indulgent twist. For a boozy kick, add a splash of your favourite liqueur or spirit to each mug – it is Christmas, after all! See our round-up of hot chocolate recipes and boozy hot chocolates for more ideas. 15. Leftover turkey soup By the time the main event is over, we often crave hearty, nourishing dishes, and there’s nothing as nourishing as soup. This traditional recipe uses leftover roast chicken, but turkey works just as well. You can even throw a cooked carcass in and pull the meat off after. The bones will impart flavour, acting as a kind of instant stock. See more of our warming winter soups. 16. Slow cooker hot chocolate fondant cake Bringing together the best of both worlds – a self-saucing pudding and a fondant – this is a match made in heaven for any chocoholics. Can't get enough? Try our top desserts with chocolate. 17. Slow cooker turkey pho If you're bored of the same old Christmas turkey leftovers, try this slow cooker turkey pho. With a delicate, aromatic broth, it's made with your leftover turkey carcass to help get the most out of your meat. Alternatively, try our easy vegan pho. 18. Slow cooker sticky toffee pudding Start this sticky toffee pudding going in the morning and by the evening you'll have a warming, comforting classic ready to serve up with vanilla ice cream. It doesn't get much better than that. Try our gluten-free sticky toffee pudding if you need to avoid the flour. We also have plenty more slow cooker desserts. 19. Slow cooker spiced parsnip soup Using up leftover parsnips from your roast, this vegan soup takes just 15 minutes to prepare. It can also be frozen to be enjoyed at a later date. We have plenty more slow cooker soup recipes and vegan soup recipes where that came from. 20. Slow cooker fudge An easy Christmas gift to get the kids involved with, this festive fudge is flavoured with a mixture of milk and dark chocolate. Feeling inspired? Try more homemade Christmas gift ideas. More on slow cookers Best slow cookers to buy Video: How to use a slow cooker Family slow cooker ideas 10 top tips for using a slow cooker Genius everyday recipes for your slow cooker Are you a slow cooker devotee? We’d love to hear what you cook in yours…
A head of seasonal cabbage goes a long way – learn how to prepare and cook red cabbage with one of our delicious recipes.
Red cabbage (also known as purple cabbage) is a member of the brassica genus and a popular feature of many Christmas dinner spreads. This nutrient-dense vegetable is packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, getting its purple colour from a flavonoid called anthocyanin. There are a variety of ways to cook red cabbage but the most common are braising or pickling, as well as stir-frying. We've put together some red cabbage recipe ideas for you, from festive side dishes to standalone meals, plus the health benefits of red cabbage. How to cook red cabbage Watch our cookery team's video for how to make red cabbage with apples and aromatic spices. It's the perfect accompaniment to a roast dinner. See how to make it with our step-by-step video. View Green Video on the source website How to prepare red cabbage Choose the best red cabbage by selecting one that feels heavy, is bright and has crisp leaves. Avoid any that have puffy leaves or outer layers removed. Red cabbages are easy to prepare. Strip off the outer leaves, wash, then slice into quarters, cut out the hard central core on each, then chop or shred. Lock in the colour by adding a touch of vinegar when cooking red cabbage in water. This stops the lovely deep purple hue from running. Don’t be too heavy-handed with red cabbage. A lot of its frumpy reputation comes from it being over-pickled or boiled for an eon. Although it’s a sturdy vegetable it’s not invincible. Go raw. Lock in nutrients by eating your cabbage uncooked in salads. Just make sure you slice it very finely. How to freeze red cabbage Red cabbage freezes well, whether it’s cooked or raw, so it’s a great way to get ahead with prep. Freezing raw red cabbage Shred the cabbage Rinse it and pat it dry Pack it into freezer bags, squeezing out as much air as possible before sealing Freezing cooked red cabbage Let cooked red cabbage, such as braised or spiced versions, cool completely before freezing Spoon into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing Label with the date and freeze for up to three months To use, defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a pan until piping hot, adding a splash of water or butter to loosen if needed. Why is red cabbage purple? This variety of cabbage gets its purple-reddish colour from the flavonoid anthocyanin and the acidity level of the soil where it's grown. Top 10 red cabbage recipes 1. Pickled red cabbage Shop-bought pickled red cabbage can sometimes be too sharp and vinegary. Our homemade version uses less abrasive cider vinegar. As it keeps for a month, it makes a nice addition to a Christmas hamper. 2. Easy red cabbage Enjoy this easy recipe for red cabbage at Christmas, brought to life with the flavours of cinnamon and star anise. It's a great side dish at Christmas, along with all the traditional trimmings. 3. Chinese braised red cabbage Red cabbage can handle heavy flavours. This braised side dish teams it with star anise, soy sauce and ginger. It’s a great alternative dish for the Christmas dinner table. 4. Mulled red cabbage with clementines Enjoy all the flavours of everyone’s favourite festive tipple in this heathy side. Snuggle a clove-studded clementine into your cabbage during cooking for some real winter warmth. 5. Sautéed salted red cabbage with cranberries Try this beautifully simple two-step sautéed red cabbage. Salt the red cabbage overnight to soften it – this way, it will only need cooking for a fraction of the time. It still retains all the flavour and texture. 6. Red cabbage with apples & star anise Apples and red cabbage are perfect partners. This braised dish is laced with cinnamon and bay leaves, too. 7. Cider-braised cabbage wedges Make these cider-braised cabbage wedges up to three days ahead for a stress-free Christmas dinner. The dish makes an ideal accompaniment to festive turkey. 8. Pickled red cabbage with walnuts & apple Serve this festive pickled red cabbage with cold cuts and sausage rolls on Boxing Day and beyond. It also makes a fantastic side dish for Christmas Day. 9. Braised red cabbage This low-fat Christmas side dish is the perfect sweet-savoury combination. Or try one of our simple twists using preserved lemon, ginger wine and bacon. 10. Red cabbage with port, prunes & orange Flavour red cabbage with port, prunes and orange for an indulgent festive side dish that delivers two of your five-a-day. It can be made in advance and frozen for up to three months. Is red cabbage a must for you during the festive season? How do you like to serve it? We have more suggestions in our recipe collection.
Basins at the ready! We’ve rounded up our best ever Christmas puds, from family-friendly recipes for Stir-up Sunday to easy and alternative options.
Christmas pudding is an integral part of festive celebrations, but as loved as it is, some people find it too much, especially children. To solve this Christmas conundrum, we've brought you 15 top puds, from classic versions to lighter options and chocolate- and toffee-flavoured desserts. For more advice on Christmas desserts and what to make on Stir-up Sunday, visit our Christmas Kitchen. We’ve answered every festive question and rounded-up all the Christmas recipes you'll ever need. Read on to find our all-time greatest Christmas puddings to suit all tastes – and don't forget to watch our handy video guide on how to light a Christmas pudding. See our main collection of Christmas dessert recipes as well as our guide to make-ahead Christmas desserts. 15 homemade Christmas puddings 1. Classic Christmas pudding You don’t get much more traditional than this dark, sticky basin pud. Packed with raisins, candied peel, apples and almonds, it's drenched in brandy and given extra body with breadcrumbs. Make it in November to serve on the big day, with extra brandy for lighting, of course. 2. Mandarin-in-the-middle Christmas pudding Some people like to hide a coin in the middle of their pudding, but we prefer a juicy citrus fruit. Cooked until tender and drenched in orange liqueur syrup, the mandarin tucked in the centre of this pud is a true jewel in the crown of your Christmas table. 3. Last-minute Christmas pudding If you're reading this on Christmas Eve and panicking about pudding, our quick and easy recipe is the rescue remedy you need. It has all the hallmarks of a traditional Christmas pudding, but it's made with a jar of mincemeat. Just combine the ingredients in your basin and microwave it on the day – easy as (mince) pie! 4. Vegan Christmas pudding With a just few simple swaps, you can transform a standard Christmas pudding into a vegan one. In this recipe, suet is left out completely, while butter is replaced with dairy-free margarine. The rest of the ingredients are much the same as a classic pud, making this a great crowd-pleaser that caters for everyone. 5. Free-from Christmas pudding Our cranberry, maple and pecan pudding is dairy-, wheat- and gluten-free. The finished result is traditionally spicy and fruity, but less rich than standard Christmas puddings. It's given real vibrancy and zing with a fresh cranberry topping sweetened with maple syrup. 6. Guinness, treacle & ginger pudding It’s conventional to add a nip of spirit to your pudding, be that brandy, liqueur or whisky. This deep, dark recipe uses Guinness instead – it imparts a slightly tangy, malty flavour to the mix. Stem ginger adds pockets of sweet spiciness, while black treacle contributes body and intensity. This one can be left to mature for up to a year. 7. Next level Christmas pudding Give the classic Christmas pudding a refresh with this cherry, almond and fig version — packed with festive flavour and a touch of luxury. It’s wonderfully versatile too, so that you can fit it around your festive cooking plans. Try steaming it in advance and reheating on the day, or save time by using the microwave. 8. Brandy pudding People who find traditional Christmas pudding too heavy may prefer a slightly lighter version that has a less intense texture and flavour. This brandy pudding recipe includes pecans, candied peel, stem ginger and glacé cherries, and is served with a beautiful butterscotch sauce. 9. Cherry & pecan Christmas pudding Morello cherries take centre stage in this extra-fruity version of Christmas pudding. A splash of amaretto brings out the flavour of the blanched almonds, while halved pecan nuts add chunkiness to the texture. 10. Blitz-and-bake sticky toffee Christmas pud Part sticky toffee pudding, part carrot cake and part Christmas pud, this dessert is not only a universally appealing alternative to classic puddings, it’s also really easy to put together. Just use a food processor to blitz up the carrot and apple, then add the rest of the ingredients. It's baked rather than boiled, then served with a walnut toffee sauce and praline shards. 11. Chocolate & cherry Christmas pudding Tempt Christmas pudding dodgers to put aside their preconceptions and give this cocoa-flavoured pud a bash. It’s made with sweet cherries and dark chocolate as well are more traditional spices and raisins. Serve with a rich chocolate-brandy sauce – who would say no? 12. Sticky orange & marsala pudding The impressive finished effect of this Christmas pudding belies the fact it takes just 12 minutes to cook in the microwave. It's made with breadcrumbs, dried fruit, spice and booze like a classic Christmas pudding, but self-raising flour and eggs make it lighter, like a traditional sponge basin pud. 13. Slow cooker Christmas pudding Get ready for Christmas with this rich and sticky pud laden with fruits, nuts and spices. This slow cooker version takes the stress out of steaming, plus it's a great way of getting more use out of your slow cooker during the festive period. 14. Christmas sticky toffee pudding Switch up your traditional Christmas pudding with this sticky toffee version. It's a great modern twist on the classic festive dessert, and you can make the pudding up to a week in advance. 15. Gluten-free Christmas pudding Make a gluten-free version of Christmas pudding for a dessert that's packed with festive spices and fruit. It substitutes plain flour for gluten-free flour and also features gluten-free baking powder. What to serve with Christmas pudding For some, a liberal glug of cold cream is all that’s needed, but others prefer brandy butter. Try our classic version spiked with vanilla, or mix things up with brandy butter ice cream. If a boozy accompaniment isn’t for you, go back to basics and smother it in homemade custard. How to use up leftover Christmas pudding Give surplus pudding a new lease of life in one of our genius leftover Christmas pudding recipes. Whether you fancy serving up Christmas pudding strudel, an iced mousse, impressive soufflés or epic cheesecake, we have the recipe for you. Christmas dessert inspiration All our top Christmas pudding recipes Top 10 mince pie recipes Easy Christmas desserts Festive dessert recipes Make-ahead Christmas desserts 10 ways with leftover Christmas desserts Our top Christmas cake recipes What's your preferred Christmas pudding recipe? Leave a comment below...
The best leftover Christmas dessert ideas
Even after Christmas and Boxing Day, there's always room for dessert! Discover our clever recipes for leftover cake, stollen, panettone and Christmas pudding.
Christmas desserts are (quite rightly) often rich and indulgent – and after a day of festive feasting, the prospect of ploughing through mince pies and the last slices of Christmas pud may be more than you can stomach. Luckily, any untouched goodies from the big day leave way for many more treats in the days that follow. Maximize the joy of the season with our guide on what to do with leftover Christmas cake. Christmas pudding and cake will often keep for several months, provided they’re sealed and stored somewhere cool. However, other items, like enriched breads, have a much shorter shelf life. Turn them into desserts anew with our clever recipes, sure to help you keep the party going a little while longer. Browse our selection of indulgent desserts below, then check out our leftover Christmas pudding recipes for more inspiration. For more ideas on how to use up Christmas leftovers, take a browse through our family dinner ideas for Christmas leftovers. How to use... leftover Christmas pudding 1. Christmas pudding cheesecake Combine two classic desserts to make a luxuriously creamy cheesecake. Blitz leftover pud with brandy to make a purée, then fold it into the cheesecake mixture. Spicy, creamy and sweet, the crunchy ginger biscuit base and caramelised clementine topping make this a dazzling dessert sure to convert the most ardent Christmas pudding haters. 2. Rye Christmas pudding cookies Christmas pudding is so versatile it can even be incorporated into cookie dough. Rye flour gives these soft and buttery biscuits a deep nutty flavour, which balances perfectly with the sweet, fruity pudding. Sandwich the cooled cookies with clotted cream or ice cream to make a decadent dessert. 3. Christmas pudding ice cream Christmas pudding freezes well and can be turned into an ice cream as easily as stirring some pieces into fresh custard (which can be homemade or shop-bought). This version has a hint of almondy amaretto and is best served with hot toffee sauce. 4. Ginger & Christmas pud cheesecake with ginger sauce Not for the faint-hearted, this pudding combines leftover chunks of Christmas pudding with Jamaican ginger cake and stem ginger. Combine with a hot caramel sauce and you've got yourself one spicy pud to wake up the tastebuds. 5. Christmas pudding ice cream bombe Looking for something really special? Rework your leftover free-from Christmas pudding into a stunning ice cream bombe, drizzled in dark chocolate and topped with dried cranberries, glacé cherries and holly or bay leaves. This impressive dessert is gluten-free and can easily be made ahead and stored in the freezer. Perfect for a New Year’s Eve celebration. 6. Christmas pudding strudel Throw a box of ready-made filo pastry into your Christmas shopping trolley, then use it to wrap up your pudding leftovers for a Boxing Day centrepiece. This log is best served warm from the oven with brandy butter, festive ice cream or hot custard. 7. Christmas pudding trifle Need a speedy post-Christmas dessert? Rustle up this sumptuous trifle in just 15 minutes, featuring a base layer of Christmas pudding topped with Grand Marnier-steeped oranges, custard and whipped cream. For more ideas, watch our video on how to use up leftover Christmas pudding. 8. Vegan Christmas pudding brownies Just about everyone can enjoy these chocolate brownies, which have been given a festive makeover with the addition of crumbled shop-bought free-from Christmas pudding and dairy-free chocolate chunks. 9. Chocolate sundaes with pear & Christmas pud Put leftover Christmas pudding or cake to good use with these rich, boozy sundaes. Drizzled with chocolate orange sauce and topped with toasted hazelnuts, they’re a grown-up twist on a classic – and ready in just 20 minutes. Leftover Christmas cake 10. Festive baked Alaska Unlock the magic of leftover Christmas cake with our creative ideas. Since it’s packed with lots of fruit, nuts and booze, Christmas cake can keep for months on end. However, if you don’t want yours lingering on until summer, use it up in this meringue dessert. The combination of hot topping and cold ice cream is a treat for the senses. 11. Christmas cake soufflés Indulge in post-holiday delights with our leftover Christmas cake recipes. Reinvent your leftover fruit cake or Christmas pudding in these light and fluffy soufflés. Pour a warm caramel sauce into each pot and watch as they magically melt in the centre. Leftover mince pies 12. Mince pie brownies Bored of plain mince pies? This marvellous festive creation incorporates them into gooey chocolate brownies for an utterly moreish sweet treat. Once you've tried these squidgy squares, you won't go back. 13. Mince pie cheesecake Over-stocked on mince pies this year? Don't let them go to waste! Why not give them a delicious second life by adding into the base of this cheesecake. A stroke of culinary genius, if we do say so ourselves, plus a brilliant way to beat Christmas food waste. 14. Frozen custard sundae This simple sundae uses up leftover mince pies and panettone by layering them with no-churn ice cream. We've used shop-bought salted caramel sauce, and you can swap mince pies for Christmas cake, pudding or crumbled yule log, if you like. Bashed biscuits, such as ginger nuts or shortbread, or chopped nuts and chocolate truffles, can also be used instead of toasted panettone. Top with chocolate sauce or raspberry coulis, if you like. Leftover panettone 15. Panettone pudding Once this Italian fruit loaf is taken out of its decorative box, it goes stale quite quickly. Save it from the dustbin by soaking in a mix of eggs, cream and vanilla, then bake it. If that’s not decadent enough for you, serve with softly whipped cream. Bake your own panettone for Christmas with our best panettone recipes. 16. Panettone cherry ice cream bombe with chocolate sauce This six-ingredient panettone ice cream bombe is a brilliant way to use up leftover panettone. It makes a stunning centrepiece that’s sure to wow friends and family – yet takes less than 30 minutes to prepare. Slice through the layers to reveal a hidden cherry compote and vanilla ice cream centre, then drizzle with rich chocolate sauce for the perfect mix of hot, cold and utterly satisfying. 17. Crunchy almond panettone French toast Transform leftover panettone into an indulgent brunch by coating it in a spiced clementine and almond egg mixture before frying to make French toast. Drizzle in maple syrup and scatter over pomegranate and clementine slices for a final festive flourish. It's delicious served with yogurt or leftover brandy butter. Leftover mincemeat 18. Mincemeat banana bread Already the champion of leftovers, we've given banana bread a festive twist by flavouring it with mincemeat and mixed spice, then serving with a whipped cinnamon butter. Make it for a delicious breakfast or afternoon tea treat over the Christmas holidays. 19. Mince pie truffles Heading to a festive get-together and want to bring a thoughtful homemade gift? Try these mince pie truffles. They’re a clever way to use up leftover mincemeat after making your mince pies – and guaranteed to make you the most popular guest at the party. 20. Mincemeat cookies Empty that half-used jar of mincemeat in the back of the cupboard by making these Christmas cookies. Simply beat a few tablespoons of mincemeat into the dough, scoop onto baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes. These crunchy cookies make a great last-minute addition to a Christmas dessert spread, or an edible gift for a loved one. 21. Mince pie frangipane tart Combine a classic almond-infused bake with Christmassy mincemeat and tart cranberry sauce for a simple, festive treat. Enjoy warm with a drizzle of cream. 22. Christmas pavlova Transforming a jar of mincemeat into a pavlova might not be the first idea that springs to mind, but it's a winner. Fold mincemeat into a rum-infused cream, then spoon this over meringue along with clementines, pistachios, mint and dark chocolate. This would also make a great centrepiece for New Year's Eve. Find creative recipes that make the most of the ends of a jar of mincemeat with our 10 new ways with mincemeat. Leftover marzipan 23. Marzipan Eccles tarts Marzipan is a dry storecupboard ingredient that’ll last much longer than breads and cakes, but if you have a little left over and want to save the cupboard space, use it to enrich these Lancashire-inspired puff pastry bakes. 24. Mincemeat, marzipan & apple tarte fine Serve this festive French-inspired mincemeat, marzipan and apple tarte with a spoonful of crème fraîche to balance the sweetness. It’s a brilliant way to use up leftover mincemeat and any marzipan from decorating your Christmas cake – ideal for Boxing Day when you’re after a twist on tradition and something a little different from the usual festive bakes. 25. Marzipan & mincemeat apples For a lighter dessert option, serve baked apples with spoonfuls of mincemeat. Using only four ingredients, they're so easy to make – and if you crave more indulgence, pour over lots of custard or fresh double cream. Leftover stollen 26. Christmas stollen pudding Put this traditional Christmas bread to good use in a good, old-fashioned baked pudding. This recipe also uses up leftover amaretti biscuits for the topping, leaving regular bread & butter pudding with a serious image problem. Leftover biscuits and sweets 27. Christmas rocky road The best part about this festive rocky road? You can adapt it by using whatever treats you have. Transform any leftover Christmas sweets and biscuits into this no-bake rocky road in just 25 minutes. This is a great recipe for getting the kids involved, too. See more of our best rocky road recipes. Discover more festive dessert recipes: Christmas pudding recipes Stollen recipes Panettone recipes Christmas cake recipes Mince pie recipes Marzipan recipes Which desserts do you like to make with Christmas leftovers? Leave a comment below…
Discover the difference between gammon and ham, plus how to prepare and cook them. Also check out our best gammon recipes and leftover ham recipes
To some, snaffling a cold cut of ham from the fridge is one of the high points of the festive season. Once glazed and studded with decorative cloves, you have a real feast on your hands. And the best bit is that it just keeps on giving – even a small ham joint will keep a household in sandwiches for up to five days. There's a reason this cola ham with maple glaze is one of our most popular recipes at Christmas time. A gammon isn’t just for Christmas, either – it’s a good investment all year round, from picnic season to birthday parties and New Year’s Eve. Follow our guide on how to cook gammon steaks plus our ideas for top 10 gammon glazes and watch the masses flock. Also check out our extensive collection of Christmas ham recipes for more flavour-packed ideas. Cook with confidence Download the Good Food app to get full access to exclusive videos, plus handy tools like cook mode, timers and stay awake settings. Get 3 months for 99p What’s the difference between gammon and ham? Both gammon and ham are cuts from the hind legs of a pig. Gammon is sold raw and ham is sold ready-to-eat. Gammon has been cured in the same way as bacon, whereas ham has been dry-cured or cooked. Once you've cooked your gammon, it's then called ham. To make your Christmas ham, you’ll need to buy a gammon – choose smoked or unsmoked and on or off the bone, according to your recipe and preference. How to prepare a gammon joint Soaking the gammon in water to remove saltiness is generally a thing of the past, but check with your butcher or look at pack instructions to be sure. To start, weigh the meat to calculate cooking time. Roast gammon cooking time is generally 20 minutes per 450g, plus an added 20 minutes. Put the meat in a large pan, cover with cold water and bring to the boil, adding any flavourings you wish (cinnamon, bay, peppercorns, coriander seeds and onion all work well). Boil for half the calculated cooking time, periodically skimming and discarding any white froth that rises to the surface. Drain, reserving the stock if you like, and leave to cool a little. Remove the top layer of skin, leaving a thin layer of fat around the meat. If you're looking to upgrade your kitchen kit, here are some of our tried, tested and top-rated favourites that would be perfect for cooking gammon. View Affiliate Playlist on the source website How to cook a gammon joint Place in a foil-lined roasting tin, cover with more foil and roast for the remaining cooking time at 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Twenty to 30 minutes before the end of cooking time, brush with the glaze of your choice – a mixture of maple syrup and coarse-grain mustard is good. Cook uncovered until the glaze has caramelised. Consider serving with our maple-mustard glazed carrots and maple spiced parsnips. See this video guide for advice on how to glaze and roast a ham: View Green Video on the source website Best ham and gammon recipes Glazed gammon Add a sticky honey and mustard glaze to gammon for a delicious sweetness that contrasts with the saltiness of the meat. It's great for a celebration supper. Spiced Christmas gammon with membrillo glaze This Christmas ham recipe uses sweet and sticky quince paste, or membrillo. It also uses the time-honoured method of studding your joint with cloves. It’s simple enough: score the skin in a diamond pattern, then pierce the centre of each diamond with a clove. Air fryer gammon Put your air fryer to brilliant use with our air fryer gammon, brushed in a simple but satisfying mustard and maple syrup glaze. Slow-baked sticky gammon Bypass the pre-boiling stage and use an all-in-one slow-cooking method. This tropical-tinged gammon recipe is made with treacle, pineapple juice and allspice, and slowly cooked in the oven for four hours until butter-soft. Cola ham with maple & mustard glaze Cook your gammon in a couple of litres of cola to really ramp up the stickiness. Once you’ve boiled the joint in its soda bath, drain and transfer into a roasting tin, and glaze with a maple mustard mixture. Sticky maple-glazed ham with baked apple sauce The secret to this picture-perfect ham is slow-roasting it in a foil parcel in a spiced apple juice bath. The steamy environment allows the flavours to mingle beautifully. The whole thing is finished off with a maple glaze, whole baked apples and golden star anise. Leftover ham recipes Classic pub grub Who would turn their nose up at a traditional plate of gammon and mash? It’s ideal for the post-Christmas period, and makes a great simple supper all year round. The salty ham is paired perfectly with sweet apple and a punchy celeriac mash. Ham & watercress salad with clementine dressing Use up leftover festive ingredients such as ham, hazelnuts, cranberries and clementines in this light salad - perfect after a week of indulgence. Add to soup Pea and ham is one of the most incredible soup combinations. Our bright-green slow-cooker version uses only six ingredients and is garnished with ham shredded from a joint. Enjoy with crusty bread. Warming winter pies This sensational chunky pie utilises festive leftovers in fine fashion. Combine your ham with cranberries, pistachios and warm Christmas flavours such as nutmeg, mace and sage. It requires homemade hot water crust pastry, so it’s one for a good kitchen session. Soft soufflé omelette Whisks at the ready: give your omelette the soufflé effect to add a touch of refinement to a brunch table. But not too much – this version with leftover ham is best served with baked beans. Try one of our other Christmas ham recipes and find out what to do with your leftovers. Also, discover our how-to-cook bacon guide. Are you partial to a homemade ham? Share your recipe with us below...
Spare yourself hours in the kitchen with our time-saving Christmas dinner menu. From simple starters to alternative mains, this year's festive prep will be easier than ever
It’s perfectly reasonable to want to avoid hours chained to the stove on the big day. There are plenty of festive recipes that take minutes rather than hours, slashing cooking time and giving you more time to spend with your friends and family. The key to speedy delivery is minimal prep time, so we’ve tried to keep it short with our choices. We've compiled a selection of recipes for each course, so you can tailor your festive menu to suit the size of your festive gathering. For more inspiration, check out our quick Christmas recipes. Using your microwave is another great way to reduce cooking time, so check out our microwave Christmas recipes. Get a head start on your cooking to make Christmas Day a breeze. You can pop dishes in the oven or reheat them at your leisure by preparing them in advance. Explore our make-ahead Christmas recipes, ranging from delightful canapés to indulgent desserts. We also have many more helpful Christmas menus for all purposes and group sizes. If you want to keep Christmas special but within your means, check out our budget Christmas menu. If you’re running behind on Christmas prep, check out our last minute Christmas menu. Try our vegetarian or vegan Christmas menu options if you’re catering to guests who don’t eat meat. Whether planning a cosy celebration for two or hosting a lively gathering, we've got you covered with our festive menus. Delight in our Christmas menu for two, perfect for an intimate affair, or impress a crowd with our Christmas menu for a crowd—each designed to bring festive cheer to your table. Christmas morning Base your breakfast around eggs or whip up some speedy pancakes. Both cook in minutes and provide a suitably savoury start to a day of serious feasting. Combine fried eggs, avocados, chutney and cream cheese in our breakfast naans for a flavoursome breakfast that takes just 10 minutes. It also counts as one of your 5-a-day, setting you up for some serious indulgence later. Get more quick breakfast inspiration For one (can easily be doubled to serve more)... Kimchi scrambled eggs (Ready in 8 mins) Cheese omelette (Ready in 10 mins) Marmite & gooey cheese crumpet soldiers (Ready in 10 mins) Overnight oats (Prep 10 mins) Eggy bread (Ready in 10 mins) Soft-boiled eggs (Ready in 4-7 mins) For two... Herb omelette with fried tomatoes (Ready in 10 mins) Sardines on toast (Ready in 7 mins) Air fryer fried egg (Ready in 8-10 mins) Cinnamon porridge with baked bananas (Ready in 13 mins) Three-minute blender banana pancakes (Ready in 3 mins) For four... Cheesy scrambled egg croissants (Ready in 10 mins) Protein overnight oats (Prep 10 mins) Breakfast egg wraps (Ready 12 mins) Smoked salmon tartines (Ready in 10 mins) Oat & chia porridge (Ready in 14 mins) Prosciutto, cranberry & brie croissants (Ready in 10 mins) Find more quick Christmas breakfast recipes to begin the festivities right. Christmas dinner Starters Get ahead with dishes you can make in advance or serve an array of luxurious products, such as smoked salmon and fine cheeses – a classic cheat’s choice. Smoked salmon dishes are always a popular choice and can be whipped up in a few minutes. For a light veggie starter, try our zingy halloumi, carrot & orange salad with a punchy mustard and honey dressing. This easy, colourful dish is ready in just 20 minutes and adds a vibrant start to your menu. Try our other speedy starters For two... Seared garlic seafood with spicy harissa bisque (Ready in 15 mins) Potted crab (Ready in 12 mins) Triple cheese & tarragon-stuffed mushrooms (Ready in 15 mins) Beetroot, bacon, cranberry & grain salad (Prep 5 mins) For four to six... Baked camembert (Ready in 25 mins) Roasted red pepper soup with crispy croutons (Ready in 27 mins) Broccoli caesar salad (Ready in 10 mins) Cucumber prawn cocktail cups (Ready in 15 mins) Crab & beetroot pâté (Ready in 12 mins) Hot-smoked salmon & beetroot platter (Prep 10 mins) For eight... Smoked salmon flatbreads (Ready in 8 mins) Raclette (Ready in 25-28 mins) Smoked trout & radish remoulade tartines (Ready in 25 mins) Check out our guide to quick Christmas starters for inspiration on more speedy starters. Main courses A huge joint of meat is always going to take hours roasting, so think outside the box when it comes to your choice of cut or alternative centrepiece. These festive mains can be prepared and cooked in an hour or less, so there'll be no need to watch the oven all day. For one (can easily be doubled to serve more)... Cranberry & lentil bake (Ready in 30 mins) Turkey schnitzel with rocket & pomegranate salad (Ready in 15 mins) Pea & ham pot pie (Ready in 40 mins) For two... Herb & garlic baked cod with romesco sauce & spinach (Ready in 30 mins) Roasted duck breast with plum sauce (Ready in 35 mins) Creamy salmon, leek & potato traybake (Ready in 40 mins) One-pan pigeon breast with spinach & bacon (Ready in 20 mins) Lemon dressed salmon with leek & broad bean puree (Ready in 30 mins) For four... Christmas poussin (Ready in 45 mins) Pot-roast pheasant with cider & bacon (Ready in 1 hour) Honey-roasted duck with creamed cauliflower (Ready in 1 hour) Spiced salmon with traybaked sag aloo (Ready in 55 mins) For six... Roast rack of lamb with rosemary (Ready in 50 mins- 1 hr) Rain-or-shine leg of lamb (Ready in 45 mins) Smoked salmon & spinach gratin (Ready in 50 mins) Herby cheese roulade (Ready in 45 mins) Bay-crumbed salmon with creamed spinach & wild mushroom (Ready in 55 mins) For eight... Clementine & vodka-baked salmon with beetroot crème fraîche sauce (Ready in 1 hour) Seared beef, spelt & butternut salad (Ready in 50 mins) Side dishes Prepare a delicious array of sides, each of which can be on the table in 20 minutes or under. From stir-fried festive cabbage to crushed olive oil potatoes, our speedy shortcuts mean you can enjoy all the trimmings with less hassle. For two... Kale salad (Ready in 20 mins) Braised cavolo nero (Ready in 20 mins) Sweet potato mash (Ready in 12 mins) Roasted asparagus (Ready in 17 mins) For four... Stir-fried festive cabbage (Ready in 20 mins) Roasted cauliflower (Ready in 30 mins) Tenderstem broccoli with sesame (Ready in 10 mins) Air-fryer pigs in blankets (Ready in 17 mins) Pan-roasted kale with lemon (Ready in 11-13 mins) Sautéed cabbage (Ready in 20 mins) For six... Air fryer broccoli (Ready in 15 mins) Air fryer brussel sprouts (Ready in 13-20 mins) Cranberry, orange & rosemary sauce (Ready in 20 mins) Microwave caraway & pomegranate red cabbage (Ready in 25 mins) Fried brussels sprouts (Ready in 20 mins) Hot honey carrots (Ready in 20 mins) Microwave brussels sprouts (Ready in 10 mins) Microwave cauliflower cheese (Ready in 25 mins) Dessert If you've neither the time nor the patience to cook a traditional Christmas pudding or an intricate baked Alaska, our super-speedy sweets will save the day. You can whip up one of these elegant parfaits, mousses or meringues in just 10 minutes or under – guests need never know how little time they took! For two... Banana mug cake (Ready in 6 mins) Vegan chocolate banana ice cream (Ready in 5 mins) Microwave Christmas mug cake (Ready in 8 mins) Blackberry & lemon fool (Ready in 10 mins) Chocolate & hazelnut ice cream sandwiches (Ready in 5 mins) For four... Vanilla, apple & ginger biscuit fool (Ready in 10 mins) Banoffee trifles (Ready in 5 mins) Easy chocolate mousse (Ready in 7 mins) Beer tiramisu (Prep 10 mins) Almond & apricot trifles (Ready in 10 mins) Amaretti affogato (Ready in 5 mins) For six... Black forest Christmas fool (Ready in 10 mins) Coffee granita (Prep 10 mins) Affogato (Prep 5 mins) Baileys banana trifles (Ready in 10 mins) After-dinner mint cream (Ready in 10 mins) Snacking If anyone gets the munchies between meals, a simple spread of quick bites, sandwiches and dips will bridge the hunger gap in no time. For one (can easily be doubled to serve more)... Date & walnut cinnamon bites (Ready in 5 mins) Pan-fried camembert sandwich (Ready in 5 mins) Chocolate-drizzled popcorn (Ready in 13 mins) For two... Mini saltimbocca sandwiches (Ready in 10 mins) Gochujang tuna melt (Ready in 11 mins) Chorizo & red pepper hummus (Ready in 10 mins) Avocado with Virgin Mary dressing (Ready in 5 mins) For four to six... Smoked salmon & rice salad (Ready in 10 mins) Smoked trout & horseradish pâté (Ready in 5 mins) Ricotta & spring onion dip (Ready in 5 mins) Choc & ginger dippers (Ready in 7 mins) Feta & cucumber bites (Ready in 10 mins) For a crowd Quick and easy party nibbles (Ready in 1 hour) Drinks Whether your guests are going booze-free or fancy a classic festive tipple, we've got plenty of quick drinks you can mix up in 15 minutes or fewer. All that's left to do is grab a glass and join in the evening's festivities. For one... Whisky mac (Ready in 2 mins) Classic negroni (Ready in 5 mins) Piña colada (Ready in 5 mins) Spiced piña colada mocktail (Ready in 15 mins) Irish coffee (Ready in 5 mins) For two... Sloe Royales (Ready in 2 mins) Hot toddy (Ready in 5 mins) Amaretto espresso martini (Ready in 5 mins) For four... Eggnog (Ready in 10 mins, plus 2 hours chilling) Spiced Bloody Marys (Ready in 5 mins) Sazerac (Ready in 10 mins) Mulled wine cocktail (Ready in 12 mins, plus 2 hours chilling) For six... Easy mulled wine (Ready in 15 mins) Gin-free G&T (Ready in 10 mins, plus 2 hours infusing) Bellini (Ready in 5 mins) Mimosa recipe (Ready in 5 mins) Festive rum & ginger punch (Ready in 10 mins) Cinnamon butter rum (Ready in 9 mins) For a crowd... Mulled pear & cranberry punch (Ready in 10 mins) Christmas cosmopolitan (Ready in 5 mins) Want a plan that takes all the stress out of Christmas dinner? Try our easiest ever, next level or budget menu plans, complete with timeplans, pre-loaded shopping lists (to print out or use for online shopping) and all the recipes you'll need for the big day. Find more Christmas menus... Vegetarian Christmas menu Vegan Christmas menu Gluten-free Christmas menu Classic Christmas menu 2-hour Christmas menu Christmas menu for a crowd Christmas menu for two All our Christmas menus How do you handle cooking a big meal under time pressure? Share your tips below...
Staying in on New Year's Eve this year? Our extra-special recipes will help you see in 2023 in style. Discover our favourite ideas
Whether you are celebrating New Year's Eve or Hogmanay, cooking at home on New Year’s Eve is a quiet, but no less special way to see in the new year. As you'll save on a restaurant meal, drinks, taxis and more, you can justify splashing out on premium ingredients, whether that's a platter of oysters or the best cheeseboard money can buy. After all, 31 December is a night to treat yourself. Find inspiration from drinks to vegetarian options in our helpful New Year’s Eve menu. We've rounded up our most luxurious, indulgent and memorable meals to serve up on New Year's Eve – we're talking feasts that are so good, they're worth staying in to enjoy. Read on to discover our celebration recipes for dining before the clock strikes midnight. If you're having a New Year's Eve party at home, be sure to serve up some of our favourite New Year's Eve party cocktails and keep your guests satisfied with our New Year's Eve party food. If you’re keeping it close with just the family then we have our family New Year’s Eve recipes that will satisfy kids and grandparents alike. The best New Year's Eve dinner ideas 1. Squash & blue cheese wellington This is a true celebratory classic, and we have plenty of wellington inspiration if you're planning to make one for New Year's Eve. There's the classic beef version, as well as twists such as pork, veggie, vegan and sausage in our ultimate wellington collection. And yes, the sausage version is essentially a giant sausage roll, a dish we'll always welcome with open arms. 2. Spicy clam & kale linguine Silky pasta with fresh steamed shellfish makes a great meal for two, and is quick to make, so you'll have more time to enjoy yourself. Ask your fishmonger for advice on what's in season in December – expect clams, oysters and mussels – and pair your pasta with a wine, like a bright white with mineral notes to complement the seafood. 3. Spiced duck breasts with sticky clementine sauce Make the most of your air fryer to make this stylish dinner with seasonal clementines, dried apricots and honey. Scale it up if you're serving a crowd or keep it as a special dinner for two, then find out our top tips for how to cook duck breast. 4. Twice-cooked beef short ribs A joint of slow-cooked meat makes an impressive centrepiece when entertaining. Our roast beef recipes include a classic, showstopping bone-in rib joint and prosciutto-wrapped fillet, but if you fancy shaking it up, try serving beef short ribs. This thriftier cut is slow-cooked until tender, then served with dripping carrots and fancy gravy. 5. Old Delhi-style butter chicken Curry is the perfect one-pot meal to cook for a special night in, as it can be easily scaled up or down depending on the size of your crowd. Our comprehensive collection of curry recipes includes regional Indian dishes, vegan satay curry and comforting dhal. Our choice for New Year’s Eve is this epic Old Delhi-style butter chicken, because any dish that involves ghee and cream is truly worthy of celebration. 6. Slow-baked sticky gammon Ham is a popular choice at Christmas time, but it can be enjoyed for almost any special occasion. Our sticky gammon recipe is a cross between a traditional festive ham and pulled pork. Serve with buns or rice, plus a sweet pineapple chutney to cut through the rich glazed meat. 7. Lobster mac & cheese It’s almost impossible to improve on a classic macaroni cheese, but the relatively neutral base makes it perfect for adding some interesting, flavourful ingredients. On New Year's Eve, try a luxurious version made with lobster tails – nobody needs to know they came from the freezer aisle. For more inspiration, browse our macaroni cheese collection for more traditional versions, plus a vegan mac. 8. Whole roast cauliflower Cauliflower is a versatile ingredient that soaks up plenty of flavour. Take it to another level with festive pomegranate jewels and thick, creamy yogurt. For a veggie version, try our whole roast cauliflower with red wine & grains. Serve with a selection of colourful winter salads or tapas sides. 9. Smoky aubergine & pepper tagine This is the perfect prep-ahead vegan dish. You can make a batch of our aubergine and pepper tagine ahead of time to save yourself from too much work on the day, then put extra portions in the freezer for a rainy day. Why not serve with some of our quick and easy flatbreads to mop everything up. 10. Slow-roasted lamb shoulder Lamb shoulder is great, because most of the prep is done in advance – a low oven simply cooks the meat slowly while you get on with other things. Rosie Birkett’s lamb shoulder recipe uses a shallot, anchovy and multi-herb marinade, and is served with a lemony gremolata for freshness. If you have any leftovers, serve Rosie’s lamb shoulder & smoky aubergine flatbreads on New Year’s Day for a take on Turkish lahmacun, a dish that takes the concept of pizza to a whole new stratosphere. 11. Squash steaks with chestnut & cavolo nero pilaf Go meat-free and make our vegan-friendly butternut squash ‘steaks’. This recipe uses seasonal ingredients, including robust chestnuts and leafy cavolo nero, plus warm cumin and cinnamon to ramp up the flavour. Dairy-free coconut yogurt adds coolness and contrast to finish. This dish looks extra-special, but is an absolute cinch to put together. 12. Stuffed bolognese pasta bake This Good Food magazine cover star caused a stir with readers and social media fans, and for good reason. It combines bolognese sauce with a pasta bake, and the results are magic. The pasta shells are stuffed with a mascarpone and mozzarella mixture to give the dish a deliciously cheesy element, as every good pasta bake should have. 13. Chicken terrine with leeks & apricots Impress your guests with this elegant chicken terrine, layered with tender leeks and sweet apricots. It makes a fantastic starter or a light yet flavour-packed main, perfect alongside a crisp white roll to spread it on. The best part? You can prepare the terrine up to three days ahead, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the evening with your guests. A little effort upfront goes a long way in delivering a truly special dish. 14. Next-level porchetta Create a showstopping centrepiece with this budget-friendly porchetta, perfect for feeding a crowd. This succulent rolled pork joint is ideal for special occasions and serves up to ten, making it a great choice for celebrating at home. Even if a night out isn’t on the cards, you can still gather your loved ones around the table for an unforgettable meal that’s sure to kick off the year on the right note. 15. Easy salmon coulibiac This stunning fish and rice dish, wrapped in crisp filo pastry, looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to make. By using ready-made filo and a pouch of cooked brown rice, you’ll save both time and effort, making it the perfect choice for a stylish yet stress-free New Year’s celebration. Ideal for impressing guests without the hassle, it's a simple way to welcome the year with flair. More New Year’s Eve inspiration... New Year’s Eve menu plan Alternative wellington recipes for NYE The best ever New Year’s Eve party food Top New Year’s Eve cocktails Cocktail recipes and tips 10 gin and tonics with a twist How will you be celebrating on 31 December? Leave a comment below...
Serve a traditional Christmas dinner menu filled with classic dishes, including smoked salmon starters, roast turkey with all the trimmings and Christmas pudding.
We’re all for breaking with convention and trying something new on special occasions, but sometimes only classic dishes will do on Christmas Day. We’ve put together a menu of our favourite traditional festive recipes for inspiration. This menu serves eight, but we’ve also included alternative options if you’re catering for less or more guests. Our helpful Christmas portion planner will make sure you serve the perfect amount. For even more inspiration, see our Christmas dinner hub and more Christmas menu ideas. The festive season is just around the corner… it’s time to beat the rush and get your Christmas wine sorted. We believe Good Food deserves great wine, so we've partnered with Laithwaites Wine to help you discover the perfect wine pairings for Christmas dinner and beyond. Discover festive wines for every merry celebration here. Classic Christmas dinner menu Christmas morning ideas Bake this Middle Eastern-inspired loaf to serve for a festive brunch. To make things extra-indulgent, spread thick slices with our moreish honey & tahini butter. Twisted spiced bread with honey & tahini butter Breakfast casserole Cured salmon build-your-own bagel board Gingerbread pancakes Mushroom brunch Brioche breakfast bake with crispy bacon See more Christmas breakfast recipes Christmas dinner ideas Starters Perfect pâté, parfait & pickles Pâté, terrine or parfait are perfect make-ahead starters. Take them out the fridge just before serving and put on a serving platter with toasts or, for even less hassle, oatcakes or crackers. Our homemade fig chutney is also a sweet and sticky accompaniment. Port & chicken liver pâté Chicken liver pâté Smoked salmon, dill & lemon pâté Duck & pork terrine with cranberries & pistachios More Christmas pâté recipes Prawn cocktails Breathe new life into prawn cocktail, a classic Christmas starter. With the addition of some Cajun spices, it's a flavour-packed modern twist. Rainbow prawn cocktails Cucumber prawn cocktail cups Classic prawn cocktail Prawn cocktail squares Prawn cocktail cups See more prawn cocktail recipes Smoked salmon Keep things light before the onslaught of roast dinner with all the trimmings. Stocking smoked salmon in your fridge is a wise choice at Christmas. Make a canapé classic of salmon & herb blinis, which you can rustle up in less than 20 minutes using four ingredients. Smoked salmon with horseradish crème fraîche & beetroot Smoked salmon, leek & dill tart Hot smoked salmon & beetroot platter Smoked salmon pâté with tear & share brioche buns Gravadlax with celeriac & fennel salad Pastrami-cured salmon See more festive smoked salmon recipes Christmas soup Serve a warming bowl of soup for a light yet satisfying Christmas starter. Try our creamy celeriac soup, or if you're feeling extra luxurious, our celeriac, hazelnut & truffle soup. Capture more seasonal flavours by blitzing chestnuts and parsnips into a silky-smooth blend and topping with crispy bacon pieces. Celeriac, hazelnut & truffle soup Spicy roasted parsnip soup Vegan leek & potato soup Mushroom soup Chestnut, bacon & parsnip soup Cauliflower soup See more Christmas soup recipes Traditional turkey ideas For some, there will never be a centrepiece that can replace turkey. If you want to stay traditional, make our classic roast turkey recipe with a rich red wine gravy. Placing pancetta under the skin will keep the meat beautifully succulent and add a hint of saltiness. If you're serving fewer people, a turkey crown can often be more suitable than a whole bird. We've added flavour and moistness to our turkey crown with a dry-brining recipe. If turkey isn't your thing, roast beef with Yorkshire puddings should fit the bill without straying too far from tradition. Roast turkey Roasted garlic & herb turkey crown Jerk turkey Perfect pancetta & roast shallot-stuffed turkey Brined roast turkey crown Cider roast turkey See more turkey recipes Watch our video on how to carve a turkey: View Green Video on the source website Side dishes and trimmings Serve your centrepiece with all the trimmings. It wouldn’t be Christmas without the much-debated Brussels sprouts, but parsnips, carrots and potatoes are all solid choices, along with one of our favourite parts of Christmas: pigs-in-blankets. Brussels with chestnuts & sage Garlic mashed potatoes Honey-roast carrots Triple-cooked roast potatoes Crisp honey mustard parsnips Christmas spiced red cabbage Bacon, sausage & prune rolls Caramelised shallot mash See more Christmas sides Sauces Elevate bread sauce by adding buttery, crisp onions. It's an ideal condiment for the Christmas dinner table or to serve with your Sunday roast. Bread sauce with flaked almonds & caramelised shallots Crispy onion & bread sauce Brown butter bread & onion sauce Vegan bread sauce Port & cranberry sauce with juniper Make-ahead gravy Simple cranberry sauce See more Christmas sauces Christmas dessert ideas Christmas pudding Love it or hate it, a fruity basin pudding embodies the spirit of Christmas. Serve with rich and luxurious brandy butter. Classic Christmas pudding Vegan Christmas pudding Christmas sticky toffee pudding Individual chocolate, pear & amaretti puddings Lighter Christmas pudding See more Christmas pudding recipes Christmas trifles Take trifle to the next level for the festive season. Make the jelly with raspberries and enrich the custard with clotted cream for ultra indulgence. Retro trifle Banoffee-tirami trifle Next level sherry trifle Chocolate orange trifle Chocolate brownie trifle Eggnog trifle See more Christmas trifle recipes. Christmas drink ideas A bottle of fizz will serve a crowd if you add some juice or fresh fruit to the glass. Alternatively, get your spices melding and stir up some fragrant mulled wine. We also have a mocktail version for non-drinkers. Amaretto fizz Bellini Cranberry sangria Easy mulled wine Pomander spritz Peppermint mojito Non-alcoholic mulled wine See more Christmas drink recipes Want a plan that takes all the stress out of Christmas dinner? Try our easiest ever, next level or budget menu plans, complete with time plan, shopping list (to print out or use for online shopping) and all the recipes you'll need for the big day. If you're still stuck for inspiration, visit our Christmas dinner page or browse more Christmas menus... 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
We love cider chilled in summer, mulled for winter and in pint-sized portions all year round. Use the tangy drink in a variety of sweet and savoury recipes
Cooking with cider? Whether you’re partial to a cloudy cidre Breton, prefer a can of flavoured fizzy stuff, or avoid it like the plague, cider is certainly a drink worth talking about. The large range of products that fall under the umbrella category of cider are incredibly distinct, meaning with a little digging, most people will find something to suit their palate. But, if you’re firmly in the ‘no’ camp, cider can still be enjoyed in cooking – in fact, some people would say it’s the best way to showcase its flavour. Not sure what to match it with? Follow our lead with these winning combinations... If you've got a glut, try our pear recipes and apple recipes. Looking for cider recommendations? Find out the best cider taste tested, then discover our ways to cook with beer, learn about types of beer and read our vegan beer taste test. What food does cider pair well with? Cider can be paired with a variety of foods, including both sweet and savoury. When it comes to savoury, cider works well with meats such as pork and chicken due to their milder flavour. For cheese, a classic combination is cheddar and cider, but it can also be served with creamier varieties such as brie and camembert. Think about the acidity of the cider too – drier ciders work well with heavier meals as the acidity cuts through the fat. Seafood is also a great choice with cider as an alternative to a dry white wine. As you might expect, any dessert made with apples pairs well with cider, and in general most fruit desserts can work with cider too. Creamy, rich desserts, for the reason mentioned above, also complement cider well. Caramel desserts are a great combination too, think toffee apples! Sparkling cider works well with both sweet and savoury, and in particular its carbonation helps to cut through richer dishes. 20 cider recipes 1. Sticky cider onion hot dogs Cooked in cider, these hot dogs take on an irresistible sweet and sticky flavour that your barbecue guests will love. Now find out our hot dog topping ideas and more hot dog recipes. 2. Chicken, leek & cider pie Use leftover roast chicken to make a comforting, creamy pie with cider, apples and leeks. Make the most of a shop-bought puff pastry sheet to make assembly a breeze. 3. Cider & onion soup with cheese & apple toasts Try Tom Kerridge's ingenious twist on French onion soup with cider and crumbly cheese toasts. Apple matchsticks and thyme leaves make an impressive-looking yet easy topping. Now discover our most popular soup recipes. 4. Twice-cooked pork belly with cider sauce Looking for a budget entertaining option? With just a handful of ingredients you can wow your guests with an impressive dinner party main. Serve with our burnt butter cabbage and crackling potato cake for soaking up the delicious cider gravy. Next try our crisp cider-braised pork belly. 5. Caramelised apples with cider Apple and pork make a winning combination when it comes to Sunday lunches. Serve these caramelised apples alongside your roast pork for a delicious upgrade to your meal. Find more Sunday lunch ideas. 6. Spiced apple cider cake Juicy Bramley apples are brought into the cake batter, along with apple cider, to be a deliciously moist batter. Spices from allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger and cloves make sure it's a highly flavoured addition to your afternoon tea. Try our best ever apple cake recipes. 7. Slow-cooked pork, cider & sage hotpot By slowly cooking your pork, not only does it make it more tender, it also allows you to use a cheaper cut of pork. This recipe makes the most of diced pork shoulder alongside leeks, dry cider, parsley, sage and potatoes. Find out more about how to buy cheap cuts of pork and how to cook pork shoulder. 8. Pork, apple & cider casserole This Normandy-inspired recipe combines pork shoulder or cheeks with smoked bacon lardons, Braeburn apples and dry cider for a Normandy-inspired recipe. Serve with creamy mash and greens. 9. Creamy pork & pear cassoulet For a simple-to-prep yet flavour-packed weeknight dinner, this cassoulet with pork loin, cider and double cream more than fits the bill. Try more easy midweek meals. 10. Cider-braised cabbage wedges Dry cider, balsamic vinegar and a mixture of warming herbs and spices make this easy braised cabbage with meltingly soft, caramelised onions. Perfect to serve alongside a roast, try more ways with braised red cabbage. 11. Pork, cider & artichoke stew When Jerusalem artichokes are at the peak of their seasonal goodness in winter, use them in this pork and cider casserole for a sweet and nutty flavour upgrade. Feeling inspired? Try more Jerusalem artichoke recipes. 12. Chicken & cider fricassée with parsley croûtes It’s understandable why chicken is the most popular search term across goodfood.com – its versatility and ease of cooking mean it can be teamed with a spectrum of sauces and seasonings. Cider, mustard and herbs are a holy trinity of flavours, now try our cider, mustard & herb chicken. 13. Sticky cider & mustard sausage wheel with box grater salad We’re huge fans of flavour contrast, and pork and apple might just be one of our favourite combinations. Add this novel recipe to your campsite repertoire – cider, honey and mustard are reduced to a sticky glaze to coat a cartwheel of sausage. Serve with a contrasting rustic slaw and add an extra layer of nighttime insulation with help from a steaming mug of hot caramel malted milk. 14. Roast pork with cider gravy Gravy sometimes needs a helping hand, and if yours lacks the necessary pizzazz, a glug of booze will usually provide a remedy. Cider sits in the middle ground between light, tangy white wine and rich, deep red, and it goes without saying that it complements roast pork a treat. Next try our herb-studded roast loin of pork with apple & cider. 15. Normandy fish stew When it comes to gaily sloshing alcohol into savoury dishes, we usually apply a lighter touch when it comes to fruits of the water world. However, firm white fish, such as cod or pollock, has a neutral flavour that, depending on your palate, can require a bolstering from bold accompaniment choices. A fish stew is an ideal canvas for throwing in cider in place of wine, then experimenting with seasoning, herbs and vegetables. 16. Steamed mussels with cider, spring onions & cream Apply the same principles to cooking with mussels. Try replacing the more traditional white wine in ‘moules mariniere’ with the same amount of cider. Let the alcohol burn off while steaming the shells open. Cream, ailiums and herbs all make sound additions – just make sure you serve plenty of bread to soak up the irresistible cooking liquor. Next try our mussels with red onion, cider and crème fraîche. 17. Rabbit pie Whether you’re a fan of plump birds like grouse, pheasant and partridge, or prefer dense, iron-rich venison, game is about as meaty as you get. Balance out all that primal flavour with a slightly sweet sauce. Cider has enough of an acidic tang to cut through the buttery meat, while its fruity undertone is just the right side of sweet once reduced during cooking. Next discover our pheasant, leek & bacon pie. 18. Cider-braised cabbage & leek hotpot Add a new dimension to steamed vegetables by cooking them in cider. Preserve the apple flavour by adding the liquid at the end of the cooking process, allowing the alcohol to cook off slightly but leaving a decent boozy hit. The method can be used for most green leaves – try Savoy, red or white cabbage, curly kale or chard. 19. Cider fondant potatoes Mastering the fondant potato carries you one step further to being a professional-standard chef. This restaurant favourite is an underrated, but highly decadent, way to serve your spuds. Once you’ve basted your potatoes in a butter glaze, transfer to the oven and add cider to reduce to sticky sauce. 20. Cider roast turkey Team the classic flavours of Christmas with fruity cider – the drink matches perfectly with warm spices, winter fruit like quince or cranberries and roasted meat. Roast your big bird in a bath of cider – it’ll steam the meat while cooking, plus with help from leeks and carrots, makes a delicious base for gravy. If you’re still hankering for cider after that, try our mulled cider and then discover our twists on classic roast turkey. Are you a fan of cider and do you ever use it in cooking? We’d like to hear your recipe ideas…
Looking for a dessert to warm the cockles and put a smile on your face? These feel-good comforting puddings are easy enough for cosy nights in.
There are desserts, and then there are puddings. Puddings transcend the realms of ‘sweet course that ends a meal' to occupy a higher food plane, one that warms you from within and leaves you feeling deeply comforted. Often, the urge for pudding comes at unexpected times after an evening meal, on those nights when a pang for something sweet takes hold. To serve those emergency situations, we’ve not only rounded-up our most comforting puddings, but we've specifically chosen recipes that can be ready in under an hour (in some cases, less than 20 minutes). But, beyond that – because we are truly committed to last-minute pudding problem-solving – we’ve picked recipes with minimal ingredients, some of which use common storecupboard staples, like canned fruit and ready-made cheats. So, put on your comfies, plant yourself on the sofa and bring on the hug-in-a-bowl – here are our top 10 most-warming pudding recipes that are guaranteed to hit the spot. For more ideas, see our nostalgic traditional pudding recipes or the indulgent British classic, queen of puddings. And, don't forget our decadent self-saucing pudding recipes. Try our best ever family puddings, or take a trip down memory lane with our best school dinner puddings. For food ideas during the colder months, check out our comfort food recipes, including more of our comforting dessert recipes. There's more where that came from with indulgent baking recipes and seasonal ideas for warming winter desserts. If you're feeling extra-autumnal or want to host a dinner party this season, try out our top 10 autumn recipes. Best comforting puddings 1. Coconut, rum & raisin rice pudding We love rice pudding on many levels, not least the whimsical nostalgia factor. This dish is also one of the most inclusive on our list, as it's gluten-free. While we love a bowl of canned rice pudding with a dollop of jam, this deluxe version takes it to another level. The base includes butter, coconut milk and double cream, all perked up by a rum syrup. Serve hot or cold, or try out other comforting rice puddings in our collection. If you'd like a comforting vegan version, try our vegan rice pudding with pear & berry compote. 2. Caramel apple pie Transport yourself to America with this apple pie recipe. For the best results, make your pastry – buttery, crisp and well worth the effort. Inside, the apples are lifted by a rich caramel, their tartness balanced by just the right touch of sweetness. Let your pie cool for at least 2 hours before serving with your choice of homemade vanilla custard or homemade vanilla ice cream. 3. Peach cobbler Continuing the retro theme, behold our traditional peach cobbler. To make this 50-minute fruity feast, bake canned peaches with spices before topping them with dollops of cinnamon-infused dough. Bake until the scone-like topping is golden, then serve hot with ice cream. We have other easy fruit cobblers and a wide range of seasonal plum and apple puddings. 4. Easy chocolate molten cakes A spongey outer and indulgent gooey centre are the best qualities for a chocolate molten cake. Make a batch of these puddings after dinner to treat guests to homemade chocolatey goodness. For other easy recipes for chocolate lovers, try our mug cake recipes. Or, check out our collection of chocolate cakes and desserts. 5. Apple & almond crumble pie Combine two classics to make the ultimate feel-good pudding. It delivers in flavour and texture, with double pastry and stewed apples being the stars of the show. It's super-easy to make, too, and doesn't take much time at all, so it's great for last-minute guests or a spontaneous post-dinner sweet treat. Serve with custard or ice cream. We have a selection of apple pies to try and some of the best apple crumbles, too. Berries and other seasonal stewed fruit would be lovely as well – check out more in our crumble collection. 6. Next level sticky toffee pudding If you're looking for the ultimate light pudding of your dreams, look no further than this next level sticky toffee pudding. It contains dates, a splash of rum, pecans, rich muscovado sugar and winter spices to usher in the new season. Enjoy this with ice cream or clotted cream and loads of toffee sauce. We have other flavour pairings and twists on the classic in our collection of sticky toffee pudding recipes. Don't let your vegan diet make you miss out on this British staple – try our vegan sticky toffee pudding. 7. Bakewell pudding Try making this egg-based pud for a warm and cosy alternative to the bakewell tart. Made using only 10 ingredients, including shop-bought pastry, it's an easy option that's not too expensive. Serve warm with ice cream, if you like. 8. Salted caramel chocolate torte Salted caramel is a trend that doesn’t seem to be abating anytime soon. A touch of salt complements the sweet caramel, which cuts through the rich and bitter dark chocolate. With a crisp and buttery biscuit base, this indulgent chocolate torte is one for true chocolate lovers, and is elegant enough for a dinner party. If you want a chocolatey vegan option, check out our beautifully dense vegan chocolate cake. 9. Lemon drizzle sponge pudding Go all out with this lemon drizzle sponge pudding. It's cheap and quick to make, and is even self-saucing thanks to the clever recipe. Serve with cream or custard for extra indulgence. For everything lemon-flavoured, try out our lemon cake recipes, from drizzle cakes and traybakes, to cheesecakes and crumbles. 10. Chocolate & salted caramel waffle bread & butter pudding Comforting and warm, this exciting twist on a classic pudding is worthy of celebration. Make a chocolate & salted caramel waffle bread & butter pudding for friends and family, and watch it become a favourite. To use up ready-made waffles or learn to make your own, check out our waffle recipes. Or, use soy milk to make this vegan date & chocolate bread & butter pudding. 11. Lemon & raspberry doughnut pudding If you’re of the opinion that doughnuts are indulgent enough on their own, look away now. This genius bake combines shop-bought jam doughnuts with ready-made custard, lemon curd and fruit. This is a bit of an outlier, as it takes a shade over an hour to make, but it’s so easy to assemble, we’re sure you’ll forgive us. 12. Sticky banana, date & pecan skillet pudding Make a warming sticky banana skillet pudding with zero waste in mind. Blitz whole bananas – skins and all – into a smooth batter with the rest of your cake ingredients, then scatter over chopped pecans for crunch. Bake until golden and gooey, then serve straight from the pan with scoops of vanilla ice cream for an effortless dessert that’s perfect for sharing with a crowd. No-oven pudding recipes Want a pudding fix but don't want to turn on your oven? These clever dessert recipes are cooked using alternative methods, like microwave and slow cooker. Slow-cooker treacle sponge The best slow-cooker desserts Top 10 microwave desserts Air-fryer doughnuts Our top no-bake desserts Make our slow-cooker sticky toffee pudding More pudding recipes The best rice pudding recipes Our top chocolate puddings Easy puddings Summer pudding recipes Sponge pudding ideas Steamed pudding inspiration Microwave puddings What's your favourite comfort food pudding? Share your recipes in the comments below.