recipes

Festive Kahlua & Bailey’s Chocolate Pudding Shots

Christmas chocolate Kahlua and Bailey's pudding shots served in small clear cups, topped with whipped topping and colorful Christmas sprinkles. The setting includes holiday decor with ornaments, red and green napkins, and a light dusting of powdered sugar. Warm lighting highlights the rich, chocolatey texture of the pudding and the festive sprinkles, creating an inviting holiday treat scene.

Festive Kahlua & Bailey’s Chocolate Pudding Shots

Creamy, boozy chocolate pudding shots with Kahlua and Bailey’s, topped with festive Christmas sprinkles – perfect for holiday celebrations!
Portions:12 shots
Cooking Time:15 minutes
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Equipment

Ingredients

  • ½ cup Red Velvet Bailey’s or regular Bailey’s
  • ¼ cup Kahlua coffee liqueur
  • 1 small box JELLO Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix
  • ¾ cup milk
  • 8 oz container Cool Whip
  • Christmas sprinkles for garnish

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Bailey’s, Kahlua, chocolate pudding mix, and milk until well combined.
  • Gradually fold in the Cool Whip, adding a little at a time, until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
  • Using a tablespoon, fill shot cups with the pudding mixture.
  • Garnish each shot with Christmas sprinkles and store in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to serve.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Wine Advice
Serve alongside a glass of bubbly Prosecco or Champagne to add a touch of sparkle to your holiday gathering.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 150 kcal | Carbohydrates: 15 g | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 8 g | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 12 g | Salt: 0.2 mg
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Course Alcohol / Chocolate / Dessert / Party Food
Cuisine International
Holliday Christmas

Festive Bay-Infused Turkey with Crispy Bacon & Rich Gravy

A beautifully roasted turkey with golden skin, topped with crispy bacon strips and fresh bay leaves, presented on a festive ceramic platter. Surrounding the turkey are holiday touches, including a small bowl of rich gravy, fresh herbs, and lemon slices. The scene is set with vibrant Mexican textiles and pottery, with warm lighting highlighting the turkey’s crispy skin and holiday presentation.

Festive Bay-Infused Turkey with Crispy Bacon & Rich Gravy

A deliciously seasoned roast turkey with bacon and a smooth, make-ahead gravy – perfect for holiday gatherings!
Portions:8
(including resting) 4 hours
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Equipment

  • Non-stick pan
  • Roasting tin
  • Large sheet of double-thickness foil
  • Jug
  • Hand blender

Ingredients

For the Turkey

  • 5-5.5 kg oven-ready turkey neck and giblets removed
  • ¼ quantity Sausage & Bramley stuffing optional
  • 1 large onion quartered
  • 1 lemon halved
  • A few bay leaves
  • 85 g soft butter
  • 10 rashers streaky bacon
  • 150 ml dry white or red wine

For the Gravy

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 1 carrot finely chopped
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 50 g plain flour
  • 300 ml strong chicken stock plus extra if necessary

Instructions

  • Make the Gravy (Can Be Done Ahead): Heat the olive oil in a non-stick pan and fry the chopped onion, carrot, and bay leaf for 10 minutes, stirring frequently until softened and golden.
  • While it cooks, mix the flour with 300ml cold water to make a smooth paste.
  • Remove the bay leaf, add the chicken stock, and then the flour mixture, stirring continuously until thickened.
  • Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently.
  • Blend with a hand blender until smooth.
  • Pour into a bowl, cover with cling film to prevent a skin, and chill.
  • Prepare the Turkey: Weigh the turkey to calculate cooking time: allow 40 minutes per kg for a 4.5-6.5kg turkey, then 35 minutes per kg over that weight.
  • This size turkey should take around 3 hours 20 minutes to 3 hours 40 minutes, plus 30-45 minutes resting.
  • Stuff & Season: Pack the stuffing into the neck end of the turkey, smooth the skin, and tuck it under for a neat finish.
  • Place the onion, lemon halves, and bay leaves in the cavity.
  • Spread the butter over the breast skin and layer the streaky bacon on top to protect and seal in the butter.
  • (This can be done the night before; bring to room temperature 1 hour before roasting).
  • Roast the Turkey: Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or gas mark 4.
  • Place the turkey on a large sheet of foil and transfer to a roasting tin.
  • Pour the wine into the cavity, season, then wrap the foil over the turkey and seal tightly.
  • Roast for the calculated time.
  • Finish Roasting: For the last 40 minutes, open the foil and remove the bacon (serve with the turkey or save for leftovers).
  • Pour off the cooking juices and baste the turkey with a little of the buttery oil that rises to the top.
  • Roast until golden and the thigh juices run clear.
  • (If using a thermometer, cook the thigh to 80°C and the breast to 75°C).
  • Let rest on a warm platter, covered with foil and tea towels, for up to 45 minutes.
  • Finish the Gravy: While the turkey rests, skim the fat from the pan juices and add to a jug.
  • Adjust with chicken stock to reach 600ml if needed.
  • Gently heat the gravy base, gradually add the pan juices, and cook until bubbling.
  • Season to taste.
  • Serve: Carve the turkey and arrange on a hot platter with some of the hot gravy poured over, or bring the whole bird to the table.
  • Leftover turkey can be frozen in the gravy for later use.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Wine Advice
Serve with a dry white wine, such as Chardonnay, or a medium-bodied red like Pinot Noir for a perfect pairing with the rich flavors of the turkey and gravy.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 929 kcal | Carbohydrates: 8 g | Protein: 93 g | Fat: 48 g | Fiber: 2 g | Sugar: 5 g | Salt: 1.8 mg
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Course Main Dish / Turkey
Cuisine England
Holliday Christmas

5-Minute Velvet Cake

Alt Text: A slice of rich, dark brown velvety chocolate cake with a smooth, moist texture and a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. The cake is served on a rustic ceramic plate in a cozy setting, with soft natural lighting that highlights the cake’s inviting texture, perfect for a homemade dessert.

5-Minute Velvet Cake

A quick and delicious chocolate cake in just five minutes – perfect for a last-minute treat!
Portions:8 servings
Cooking Time:5 minutes
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Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • whisk,
  • Oven-safe baking dish

Ingredients

  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ¼ cup cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup milk
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 egg
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup boiling water

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Add the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
  • Stir in the boiling water until well combined; the batter will be thin.
  • Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Wine Advice
Pairs well with a sweet dessert wine or a cup of coffee for a delightful combination.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 200 kcal | Carbohydrates: 35 g | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 6 g | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 20 g | Salt: 0.4 mg
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Course Cake / Dessert
Cuisine International
Holliday Birthday / Christmas
Diets Vegetarian

Refreshing Pomegranate Mojito Mocktail

Tall glasses of pomegranate mojito mocktail with a vibrant pink-red color, garnished with fresh mint leaves, pomegranate seeds, and lime wedges. The glasses are arranged on a festive Mexican-style ceramic tray, surrounded by colorful textiles and pottery accents. Bright natural lighting highlights the refreshing colors and inviting details, creating a lively, festive atmosphere.

Refreshing Pomegranate Mojito Mocktail

A vibrant, non-alcoholic mojito with pomegranate, mint, and lime – perfect for festive gatherings!
Portions:6 servings
(plus freezing time) 10 minutes
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Equipment

  • Ice cube tray
  • Large jug
  • Rolling Pin
  • Small sieve

Ingredients

  • 3 tbsp pomegranate seeds
  • Large bunch of mint reserve half for garnish
  • 2 limes quartered, plus extra slices for garnish
  • 1 liter pomegranate juice
  • 500 ml lemonade

Instructions

  • Divide the pomegranate seeds among the holes in an ice cube tray, fill with water, and freeze until solid.
  • In a large jug, tear half of the mint leaves and add the lime quarters.
  • Using a rolling pin, gently bash the mint and lime to release their flavors.
  • Pour the pomegranate juice and lemonade into the jug and stir to combine.
  • Place the pomegranate ice cubes in each glass, then strain the pomegranate mixture over the ice through a small sieve.
  • Garnish with lime slices and reserved mint leaves.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Wine Advice
For a cocktail version, add a splash of rum to the jug before mixing.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 76 kcal | Carbohydrates: 18 g | Protein: 0 g | Fat: 0 g | Fiber: 0 g | Sugar: 18 g | Salt: 0 mg
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Course Cold Drinks / Mocktail / Party Food / Smoothies
Cuisine International
Holliday Christmas
Diets Vegan

Elderflower Lemon Fizz Cocktail

Lemon and elderflower fizz cocktails served in elegant glasses with sugared rims, each topped with lemon zest strips and a scoop of lemon sorbet. The drinks have a light, fizzy, golden color and are arranged on a vibrant Mexican-style ceramic tray, surrounded by colorful textiles, fresh lemons, and small pottery accents. Bright natural lighting highlights the fizz and festive presentation, creating a refreshing and cheerful scene.

Elderflower Lemon Fizz Cocktail

A refreshing, sparkling cocktail with lemon, elderflower, and Prosecco – perfect for celebrations!
Portions:6 glasses
Cooking Time:10 minutes
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Equipment

  • Large jug
  • Serving glasses
  • Plate

Ingredients

  • 75 ml gin
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • 2 tsp caster sugar plus extra for decoration
  • 50 ml elderflower cordial
  • 750 ml bottle Prosecco
  • 4 tbsp lemon sorbet

To Decorate

  • 2 tbsp caster sugar
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Strips of lemon zest

Instructions

  • To create a sugar rim, pour the extra caster sugar onto a plate and the lemon juice into a small bowl.
  • Dip the rim of each glass in the lemon juice, then dip in the sugar to coat.
  • In a large jug, combine the gin, lemon juice, 2 tsp caster sugar, and elderflower cordial.
  • Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
  • Add the Prosecco and lemon sorbet to the jug, stirring gently to combine.
  • Pour the cocktail into the prepared glasses, and add a few strips of lemon zest for garnish.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Wine Advice
For a non-alcoholic option, substitute Prosecco with sparkling elderflower or lemon soda for a refreshing mocktail.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 168 kcal | Carbohydrates: 16 g | Protein: 0 g | Fat: 0 g | Fiber: 0 g | Sugar: 16 g | Salt: 0 mg
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Course Alcohol / Cocktails / Party Food
Cuisine England
Holliday Christmas / New years eve

Warm Spiced Mulled Cider

Glass mugs of hot mulled cider with a warm, amber hue, garnished with orange zest, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. The mugs are arranged on a rustic Mexican-style ceramic tray, surrounded by vibrant textiles, cinnamon sticks, and whole spices, creating a cozy holiday atmosphere. Warm natural lighting highlights the cider’s rich color and festive details, perfect for a Christmas gathering.

Warm Spiced Mulled Cider

Cozy up with a warm glass of spiced mulled cider, perfect for festive gatherings and chilly evenings!
Portions:8 servings
Cooking Time:45 minutes
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Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1.5 liters dry cider
  • 7 tbsp Calvados
  • 400 ml apple juice
  • 75 g dark brown sugar
  • Zest of 1 orange pared into strips
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 2 cinnamon sticks broken in half
  • 1 tbsp allspice berries

Instructions

  • Pour the cider, Calvados, apple juice, and dark brown sugar into a large saucepan and gently heat to begin mulling.
  • Add the orange zest, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and allspice berries.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  • Keep on low heat for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse fully.
  • Ladle the mulled cider into glass mugs and serve warm.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Wine Advice
Serve as an alternative to wine at festive gatherings, or alongside a dry white wine for those looking to complement the spiced cider.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 120 kcal | Carbohydrates: 15 g | Protein: 0 g | Fat: 0 g | Fiber: 0 g | Sugar: 15 g | Salt: 0 mg
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Course Alcohol / Beverage / Hot drinks / Party Food
Cuisine England
Holliday Christmas

Smoked Salmon & Cucumber Bites with Lemon Crème Fraîche

Fresh salmon and cucumber twists featuring thin strips of beetroot-cured smoked salmon wrapped around crisp cucumber slices, topped with a dollop of crème fraîche, lemon zest, and black pepper. The twists are arranged on a vibrant Mexican-style ceramic plate, surrounded by colorful textiles and pottery accents. Bright natural lighting enhances the fresh colors and textures, creating an elegant and inviting appetizer presentation.

Smoked Salmon & Cucumber Bites with Lemon Crème Fraîche

Elegant smoked salmon and cucumber bites with a refreshing lemon crème fraîche – perfect for festive gatherings!
Portions:15 twists
Cooking Time:15 minutes
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Equipment

  • Serving plate
  • mixing bowl

Ingredients

  • ½ cucumber halved lengthways and deseeded
  • 100 g beetroot-cured smoked salmon cut into thin strips
  • 1 ½ tbsp crème fraîche
  • Squeeze of lemon juice
  • Lemon zest for garnish
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Slice the cucumber diagonally into pieces about 0.
  • 5-1cm thick.
  • Twist a strip of smoked salmon around each cucumber slice and arrange on a serving plate.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the crème fraîche, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
  • Dollop a small amount of the lemon crème fraîche mixture on top of each salmon and cucumber twist.
  • Just before serving, sprinkle with a bit of black pepper and lemon zest for garnish.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Wine Advice
Serve with a crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Champagne for a refreshing pairing with the smoked salmon.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 18 kcal | Carbohydrates: 0 g | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 1 g | Fiber: 0 g | Sugar: 0 g | Salt: 1 mg
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Course Appetizer / Fish / Seafood / Party Food / Snacks / Starters / Vegetables
Cuisine England
Holliday Christmas / New years eve
Diets Pescatarian

Spicy Chorizo & Prawn Skewers with Garlic Dip

Chorizo and prawn skewers featuring golden-brown mini chorizo sausages and plump, harissa-seasoned prawns, arranged on a colorful Mexican-style ceramic platter. A small bowl of garlic mayo-yogurt dip garnished with parsley is placed nearby. The scene includes vibrant Mexican textiles and pottery, with warm lighting highlighting the rich textures and colors, creating an inviting appetizer presentation.

Spicy Chorizo & Prawn Skewers with Garlic Dip

Juicy chorizo and prawns spiced with harissa and served with a creamy garlic dip – an easy, flavorful appetizer!
Portions:12 skewers
Cooking Time:20 minutes
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Equipment

Ingredients

  • 12 mini chorizo sausages or cooking chorizo cut into 12 pieces
  • 12 raw shelled prawns
  • 1 tsp harissa
  • ½ garlic clove crushed
  • 2 ½ tbsp mayonnaise
  • 2 ½ tbsp Greek-style yogurt
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or gas mark 6.
  • Place the chorizo on a baking tray and cook for 12 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, in a bowl, mix the prawns with the harissa to coat them evenly.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the crushed garlic, mayonnaise, and Greek-style yogurt to make a creamy dip.
  • After 12 minutes, turn the chorizo on the tray and add the prawns.
  • Cook for an additional 3 minutes until the prawns are pink and cooked through.
  • Sprinkle the parsley over the cooked prawns.
  • Thread each skewer with one prawn and one chorizo sausage.
  • Serve the skewers warm with the garlic dip on the side.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Wine Advice
Pair with a chilled Spanish Albariño or a dry rosé for a light, refreshing complement to the spicy chorizo and prawns.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 87 kcal | Carbohydrates: 1 g | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 7 g | Fiber: 0 g | Sugar: 1 g | Salt: 0.5 mg
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Course Appetizer / Fish / Seafood / Party Food / Pork / Snacks / Starters
Cuisine Spain
Holliday Christmas / Picnic

Pesto & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Twists

Golden, twisty cheese straws with a pesto cream cheese filling, arranged on a colorful Mexican-style ceramic platter. The cheese straws are crisp, twisted, and flaky, with a small bowl of pesto nearby. The setting includes festive Mexican textiles and pottery, with warm natural lighting highlighting the rich colors and textures, creating a cozy and inviting appetizer presentation.

Pesto & Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Twists

Golden, flaky puff pastry twists filled with creamy pesto and cheese – perfect for parties or snacking!
Portions:24 twists
Cooking Time:35 minutes
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Equipment

Ingredients

  • 100 g cream cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh pesto
  • 320 g sheet puff pastry
  • Flour for dusting
  • 1 egg beaten

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or gas mark 6.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and pesto until smooth.
  • Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut in half lengthwise.
  • Spread the cream cheese and pesto mixture over one half of the pastry, then place the other half on top, pressing gently to create a sandwich.
  • Cut the layered pastry in half lengthwise to create two long rectangles.
  • Then, divide each rectangle into strips about 1cm thick.
  • Twist each strip and arrange on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
  • Brush the twists with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Wine Advice
Pair with a light, crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the pesto flavors.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 78 kcal | Carbohydrates: 7 g | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 6 g | Fiber: 0 g | Sugar: 0 g | Salt: 0.2 mg
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Course Appetizer / Cheese / Party Food / Snacks / Vegetables
Cuisine Italian
Holliday Christmas / New years eve / Picnic
Diets Vegetarian

Prosciutto-Wrapped Parmesan Polenta Bites

Golden, crispy polenta chips wrapped in prosciutto and lightly topped with grated Parmesan, arranged on a colorful Mexican-style ceramic platter. A small bowl of tomato ketchup for dipping is placed nearby, surrounded by festive Mexican textiles and pottery. Warm natural lighting enhances the crispy textures and vibrant colors, creating an inviting appetizer presentation.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Parmesan Polenta Bites

Savory polenta bites wrapped in prosciutto, baked until golden, and topped with Parmesan – a perfect party snack!
Portions:18 chips
Cooking Time:45 minutes
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Equipment

Ingredients

  • 250 g ready-made block of polenta
  • 90 g pack prosciutto
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 25 g Parmesan grated
  • Tomato ketchup for serving (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or gas mark 6.
  • Cut the polenta into 18 chunky chips and the prosciutto into 18 strips.
  • In a large bowl, toss the polenta chips with olive oil and a good grind of black pepper to coat.
  • Wrap each polenta chip with a strip of prosciutto and place on a baking tray.
  • Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the wrapped chips.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden, turning the chips halfway through baking at the 15-minute mark.
  • Serve warm with tomato ketchup on the side, if desired.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Wine Advice
Pair with a light, dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio to enhance the Parmesan and prosciutto flavors.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 32 kcal | Carbohydrates: 3 g | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 2 g | Fiber: 0 g | Sugar: 0 g | Salt: 3 mg
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Course Appetizer / Cheese / Party Food / Snacks / Starters / Vegetables
Cuisine Italian
Holliday Christmas / Picnic