Prepare for a stress-free Christmas party with these easy and festive bakes.
Advent fairings
Traditionally baked for the St Ives fair in Cornwall on the Saturday before Advent Sunday, these little pig-shaped biscuits have an endearing history. With the fishing season ended, and the fisherman all feeling flush from their catch and readying themselves for the festivities ahead, the fair was one of the highlights of the year. Cornish fairings were sold by the pig-pie man (no doubt with spare pastry to roll) to young men who bought biscuits for their sweethearts.
This recipe makes about 12.
Brussels sprouts, blue cheese and chestnut tartlets
Classic Christmas combination of savoury flavours here, use any seasonal vegetables and cheese you have to hand if you prefer, but it must be said that this trio takes some beating.
Makes about 8 tartlets, or one 22cm tart-tin.
Homemade Cheese Straws
Nothing beats a cheese straw and this recipe is a doddle to prepare. These cheese straws smell outrageously good when they bake, so you won't want to wait to take a bite!
Makes about 12
Spiced Christmas tree biscuits
These tempting treats are designed to hang from the tree like a bauble, but you can also package them up in a box with ribbon - they'll make a thoughtful Christmas gift.
Makes 30-15 biscuits.
Ready to decorate for Christmas? Make sure your kitchen or dining room looks festive with one of these pretty Christmas tablecloths.
