Chiu Chow smacked cucumber

Enjoy this spicy smacked cucumber with steak, if you like, or as an appetiser. ‘Smacking’ the cucumber allows the marinade to be absorbed into the flesh

Blackberry jelly

Pair this versatile blackberry jelly with a sharp cheddar, or spread over scones with cream. Make sure you use ripe, juicy berries

Greengage jam

Gather up gorgeous greengages to make a beautiful jam. Using fruit before it’s very ripe has a higher pectin content, so opt for these over softer options

Blackcurrant no-churn ice cream

Balance out the tang of blackcurrants with the sweetness of condensed milk and double cream in this no-churn ice cream. It makes a creamy, fruity pudding

Redcurrant jam

Have a glut of redcurrants? High in pectin, they’re a great ingredient for jams and jellies. If you prefer a seeded jam, simply omit sieving the fruit

Iced finger buns

These picture-perfect iced buns are ideal for an afternoon tea spread or a weekend baking project. Fill with jam and cream for a traditional treat.

Soy sauce caramel milkshake

Add a little soy sauce to a caramel milkshake for a savoury, salty edge. The flavour profile is less sweet overall, making it a perfect milkshake for grown-ups!

Chocolate biscuit wreath cake

Serve this stunning wreath as an alternative to Christmas cake. It makes a showstopping centrepiece dessert, and components of it can be made in advance

Homemade honeycomb

Combine golden syrup, sugar and bicarbonate of soda to make our moreish homemade honeycomb. Simple to make, it’s a lovely gift for friends at Christmas time

Cookie dough truffles

Make Christmas extra special with these cookie dough truffles. They’re the perfect gift for family and friends, or serve with coffee after a festive feast