It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas. Who is coming to the Christmas feast? There's a touch of tension in the air. Why won’t the family make up their minds?
It’s often a bit awkward with families. Some live in different towns; there are the in-laws, siblings and cousins to consider. What are we going to eat? Why don't you all just bring a plate!
However, I’m not one for being caught short and the following recipes can all be prepared in advance.
Pavlovas are great — especially the store-bought ones as they keep for weeks without their topping. Instead of whipped cream, try piling scoops of salted caramel ice cream on top then drizzling with a little melted chocolate.
Meringues are a pantry staple. Sandwich together with whipped cream and pile in a tower on a serving plate then garnish with fresh berries. Or crumble into whipped cream together with mini marshmallows and fresh berries = ambrosia.
Crepes can also be prepared ahead — then frozen. They can be reheated in the microwave and served with flambéed stone fruit or filled with a mixture of lemon curd and cream fraiche, then rolled and topped with limonata ice cream.
Festive pumpkin pie
Banoffee cheesecake
Rosewater and raspberry meringues
