Last-minute Christmas recipes

A simple, quick and indulgent dessert you can rustle up in 10 minutes. If you want to make a non-alcoholic version, use a can of cherries in syrup instead

This quick microwave Christmas pud, which uses shop-bought mincemeat, takes just 35 mins - simply combine the ingredients and cook on the day for a last-minute dessert

The easy roast turkey is cooked high and fast like a chicken, giving it extra crispy skin. It needs longer to rest so the meat can relax and stay succulent

We all know a few die hard chocolate fans - make them one of these hot choc stirrers as a gift and they'll never want to use powdered cocoa again

Make a cosy night in even more indulgent with this meltingly good quince paste, spicy sausage and cheese toasted sandwich - the perfect winter pick-me-up

Make a Christmas pud in half the usual time by using a pressure cooker. You'll save both energy and effort, and be rewarded with a deliciously moist dessert

There's nothing better than soft, buttery carrots to go along with your favourite roast. You can keep this side simple or tweak it with our delicious twists

This simple syrup makes a lovely homemade gift and adds a festive flavour to drinks and desserts - stir into hot chocolate, warm apple juice or Prosecco, or drizzle over ice cream

These low-fat, gluten-free canapés can be put together in just 10 minutes - perfect as a last-minute party nibble

This simple gravy compliments delicately flavoured turkey meat and is quick enough to make at the last minute

Treat your guests to a Christmas punch. It's a blend of prosecco, gin liqueur and apple juice, together with festive clementine and ginger

James Martin's stunning seafood starter is guaranteed to impress at any dinner party - layer with beetroot, orange and tangy horseradish cream

These colourful, spiced sweet and sour pickled onions add piquancy to a ploughman’s, or a sharp finish to Mexican food - an ideal edible gift to make ahead and pop in a homemade hamper

The classic combination of apples and cheese is given a lift with thin slices of sweet fruitcake - a great festive party canapé or buffet treat

Also known as miracle fudge, this indulgent sweet treat is made in minutes in the microwave, and makes for an ideal last-minute edible gift – no sugar thermometer required

Make a large cake using a 600ml mug or halve the mixture to make one small cake instead of two. Enjoy with brandy butter or custard

This simple canapé is easy to assemble and has only three ingredients, yet looks great as part of a party platter or buffet

This super simple, yet delicious, side dish has just three ingredients - perfect for no-fuss entertaining or with a laid-back Sunday roast

This easy roast turkey recipe with sage and onion butter and a rich gravy won't let you down on the big day, perfect for feeding a crowd on Thanksgiving

Beautifully bite-sized canapés to hand round at your next party - just five ingredients and ready in 15 minutes

For a simple, smart starter, just mix mayo with garlic, herbs and a squeeze of lime and serve with seafood and brown bread

This fresh idea for your Christmas sprouts is a good source of both vitamin C and folic acid

Give your roasties a little style and originality with rosemary, garlic and chipolatas