The Warming Charm of The King’s Ginger: A Royal Tipple with Timeless Appeal

Santa unwinds with a glass of The King’s Ginger and a plate of mince pies in this cosy festive feature celebrating the warmth and charm of this iconic liqueur.

There are festive drinks, and then there are festive legends. 

The King’s Ginger sits firmly in the latter category, a bold, aromatic ginger liqueur originally created in 1903 specifically for King Edward VII. 

Designed to fortify His Majesty against Britain’s cold wintery weather, this golden spirit has become a firm favourite for anyone seeking warmth, indulgence, and a touch of royal flair in their glass.

Whether you’re mixing up cocktails for a Christmas party, strolling a crisp winter market, or simply settling in for a cosy evening at home, The King’s Ginger brings a luxurious heat that feels like slipping into a velvet smoking jacket by a roaring fire.

A Royal Recipe Born from Necessity

The story of The King’s Ginger begins with a unique challenge: how do you keep the King warm during brisk automobile rides in an open-top Daimler? 

The solution was a specially commissioned liqueur crafted with fiery ginger root and citrus oils, robust, invigorating, and perfectly suited to chilly Edwardian winters. And remember these were days before central heating had made inroads in even many country houses.

More than a century later, the recipe has evolved but still honours its origins: bold ginger warmth, zesty lemon brightness, and a smooth sweetness that makes it exceptionally versatile.

What Does The King’s Ginger Taste Like?

If you’ve never tried it, imagine a balance of:

Fresh, punchy ginger heat

Bright citrus notes that lift the sweetness

A warming finish that spreads slowly and luxuriously

It’s richer and more vibrant than many ginger spirits, making it ideal for both sipping and cocktail-making.

How to Enjoy The King’s Ginger

Part of this liqueur’s charm lies in its flexibility. Here are some popular ways to serve it:

1. Neat or on the Rocks

A small measure over ice delivers its full, warming depth, perfect for late-night winter relaxation.

2. The King’s Ginger Hot Toddy

A festive favourite:

50ml The King’s Ginger

Hot water

Lemon slice

A touch of honey (optional)

It’s aromatic, soothing, and ideal for cold evenings.

3. Christmas Fizz

Add a splash to prosecco or English sparkling wine for a luxurious seasonal twist.

4. The Modern Mule

Mix with ginger beer and lime for a refreshing yet fiery cocktail that works equally well in winter and summer.

5. Baking with Ginger Punch

Home bakers love to add a dash to festive bakes, gingerbread, fruitcake, mince pie filling, or even a drizzle over Christmas pudding.

A Fabulous Bottle for Gifting

The bottle itself is handsome and distinctive, instantly recognisable on the shelf. Its stylish, regal design makes it a brilliant Christmas gift, from the cocktail lover to the relative who “has everything”. It also pairs beautifully with hampers, winter picnic kits, and gourmet food selections.

Why The King’s Ginger Belongs in Your Festive Season

It’s not just a drink, it’s an atmosphere. A sense of heritage, comfort, and spirited indulgence. With its deep winter warmth and lively citrus top notes, The King’s Ginger manages to feel both traditional and contemporary.

Whether you serve it at a Christmas gathering or sip it quietly as snow begins to fall, it brings an unmistakable glow to the season.

And you can buy The King's Ginger from the That's Christmas 365 shop at this link https://amzn.to/4owHeOV

The History of Gingerbread: From Ancient Spice to Christmas Favourite

Few festive treats feel as timeless and comforting as gingerbread. 

Whether it’s shaped into biscuits, crafted into enchanting houses, or baked into rich loaves, gingerbread has become a much-loved part of Christmas across Britain and beyond. 

But where did this spiced delight come from, and how did it become so firmly linked to the festive season? 

The story stretches back thousands of years and weaves together culture, trade, celebration, and a dash of Christmas magic.

Ancient Beginnings: Ginger Arrives in Europe

Gingerbread begins with one key ingredient: ginger. This fiery root was first cultivated in ancient China and quickly spread along early trade routes. By the time of the Roman Empire, ginger was prized not only for its flavour but also for its supposed medicinal properties.

Romans were known to make early versions of gingerbread, spiced honey cakes thought to help with digestion. When the Empire fell, ginger remained a treasured ingredient, though rare and expensive.

Medieval Europe: Gingerbread as a Delicacy

By the Middle Ages, ginger had made its way into the kitchens of Europe, including Britain. Medieval gingerbread bore little resemblance to the airy biscuits we know today. It was often a mixture of breadcrumbs, honey, and ground spices, pressed into moulds carved with intricate designs.

Gingerbread became especially popular at fairs, markets, and religious festivals. In fact, gingerbread shapes were often created as charms or tokens—hearts for lovers, knights for young men, even animals for children.

In England, gingerbread was so significant that towns like Market Drayton in Shropshire became renowned centres of gingerbread making, a tradition that continues today.

Royal Approval: Queen Elizabeth I and the First Gingerbread Men

The festive gingerbread figure owes much to the Tudor court. Queen Elizabeth I famously had her cooks create gingerbread biscuits shaped like her visiting dignitaries. These early “gingerbread men” were beautifully decorated and presented as personalised gifts.

This charming idea spread throughout Britain, and shaped gingerbread soon became a staple of festive banquets and celebrations.

Gingerbread and Christmas: A Perfect Pairing

So how did gingerbread become specifically connected to Christmas? There are several reasons:

1. Spices were luxury winter treats

In medieval and early modern Europe, spices such as ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves were expensive. Using them in baking was a way to celebrate special occasions, especially Christmas, the most important feast of the year.

2. Gingerbread fairs were winter traditions

Throughout Europe, winter markets and Christmas fairs were famous for stalls filled with gingerbread hearts, stars, and figures. These treats were easy to transport and lasted well in cold weather, making them ideal festive gifts.

3. Gingerbread houses added a magical twist

The tradition of gingerbread houses began in Germany, inspired in part by the Brothers Grimm tale Hansel and Gretel. Bakers began crafting elaborate little houses from spiced biscuit, decorated with sweets and icing. German immigrants later carried the tradition around the world, and it soon became a Christmas favourite.

4. Victorian Britain embraced festive baking

The Victorian era shaped much of our modern Christmas, including cards, trees, and many seasonal foods. Gingerbread biscuits, cakes, and decorative ornaments became common in British households—particularly once spices became more affordable.

Decorating gingerbread at home became a family tradition, and the scent of warm spices firmly established itself as part of the Christmas atmosphere.

Modern Gingerbread: A Festive Favourite

Today, gingerbread continues to evolve. From iced biscuits in school fairs to towering gingerbread houses in luxury hotels, gingerbread remains a symbol of creativity, warmth, and seasonal cheer.

Bakers experiment with shapes ranging from classic Christmas trees and reindeer to modern pop culture characters. And while recipes vary, the comforting aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and golden syrup remains instantly recognisable.

Why Gingerbread Still Matters at Christmastime

Gingerbread captures something special about Christmas:

Nostalgia – it reminds us of childhood baking, festive fairs, and cosy winter evenings.

Creativity – making gingerbread shapes or houses is a hands-on activity that brings people together.

Tradition – it connects us with centuries of winter celebrations across Europe.

Comfort – its warm spices make it the perfect companion to a mug of tea, mulled wine, or hot chocolate.

From ancient Chinese roots to medieval markets, Tudor courts, and Victorian homes, gingerbread has travelled a long way to become a Christmas classic. Its rich history and warm, spiced flavour ensure it remains part of the festive season for generations to come.

Butter Bike launches limited-edition Sage & Onion Stuffing Peanut Butter

I love peanut butter and I love the taste of the savoury delights of Christmas, so I was intrigued to learn of the latest offering from Butter Bike. 

Butter Bike, the specialist producers of bold, all natural nut butters, is unveiling a new limited edition Sage & Onion Stuffing Peanut Butter. 

Deep roast, hi-oleic peanuts meet sage, rosemary, garlic, some crispy onion and just a touch of flaked salt for a distinctive seasonal spread which is perfect for gifting or savouring yourself. 

Proudly made in the UK, this peanut butter is vegan, gluten-free, and packed with protein. It contains no added oils (including palm oil), no artificial flavours, and no refined sugar. 

It's a stand out peanut butter for foodies, trend-chasers, adventurous cooks and toast lovers - it really is a stocking filler like no other.

Serving suggestions 

Cheese twists, upgraded: Spread on puff pastry, twist, top with Parmesan, bake.

The ultimate leftovers sarnie: Smother over bread, pile in turkey, pigs in blankets, cheese and cranberry.

Boxing Day dip: Dunk pigs in blankets straight into the jar; drizzle over a chopped salad of cold roast potatoes and sprouts.

Festive 'nachos': Lightly salted tortillas with Sage & Onion Peanut Butter, melted brie, stuffing balls and cranberry.

Sweet Seasonal Specials 

Gingerbread Peanut Butter 

£6.50, 285g (butterbike.co.uk)

Just like your favourite festive cookie: this peanut butter is generously spiced and scattered with jewels of chewy crystallised ginger. Delightfully fiery, sweet and crunchy.

Try it on French toast; rolled in crêpes with plum compote; or generously dolloped on a hot, buttered crumpet.

Chocolate Orange Peanut Butter

£6.50, 285g (butterbike.co.uk)

Citrussy and aromatic, yet creamy and rich with cocoa, this smooth peanut butter is as moreish as its foil-wrapped inspiration. Best poured liberally over porridge on a wintry morning. Delicious on hot crumpets after a cold run or cycle!

Festive Peanut Butter Gift Trio

£18.95, 3 x 285g (butterbike.co.uk)

This beautifully presented gift box brings together Butter Bike's three festive favourites - full of smooth chocolatey goodness, sweet spices and its bestselling classic crunchy peanut butter. It includes: 

1 x Rugged Peanut Butter (285g)

1 x Limited Edition Chocolate Orange Peanut Butter (285g)

1 x Limited Edition Gingerbread Peanut Butter (285g)

The ultimate Christmas gift for the foodie in your life. 

 For more information, visit www.butterbike.co.uk or follow @butterbikeco on social media.

Butter Bike is also available from Not On The High Street, DELLI, Whole Foods London, Selfridges, and a wealth of independent delis, farm shops and speciality stores across the UK.

Caribbean Christmas: A Celebration of Sun, Song and Spice

When most of us think of Christmas, we picture frosty windows, mulled wine, and roaring fires, but across the Caribbean, Christmas is an explosion of sunshine, soca, and sensational food. 

With each island adding its own distinct flair, Caribbean Christmas traditions combine European influences with local ingredients, rhythms, and culture, creating one of the most vibrant festive seasons in the world.

A Joyful Season of Music and Community

In the Caribbean, Christmas is as much about togetherness and celebration as it is about faith. The season kicks off in early December with house cleaning and decorating, often using bright lights, tropical flowers, and handmade ornaments.

Churches fill with carol services and midnight masses, while streets come alive with parang in Trinidad and Tobago, a lively form of folk music with Spanish roots, featuring guitars, maracas, and cuatro.

Over in Jamaica, Christmas Day brings the sound of reggae and dancehall, and families gather for big parties where the music rarely stops. Meanwhile, in the Bahamas, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day are dominated by Junkanoo, a parade filled with colourful costumes, whistles, and drums — a joyous expression of cultural pride.

aribbean Christmas Feasts

Food takes centre stage during the Caribbean festive season. Every island boasts its own signature dishes, but one thing unites them all — the tables are overflowing with flavour.

Here are a few Christmas favourites from across the islands:

Jamaica

Curried Goat or Roast Chicken – The main course is often served with rice and peas, fried plantain, and callaloo.

Christmas Ham – Glazed with pineapple or brown sugar and cloves for a rich, smoky sweetness.

Gizzada and Sweet Potato Pudding – Traditional desserts that pair perfectly with a glass of sorrel.

Trinidad and Tobago

Pastelles – Cornmeal pies filled with seasoned meat, olives, and capers, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.

Ham and Turkey with Homemade Bread – Served with plenty of pepper sauce for heat.

Black Cake – A dense, boozy fruit cake soaked in rum and cherry brandy for weeks before Christmas.

Barbados

Jug Jug – A dish inspired by Scottish haggis, made with pigeon peas, guinea corn flour, and salted meat.

Great Cake The Bajan version of the black cake, filled with local rum and dried fruits.

Puerto Rico

Pernil – Slow-roasted pork shoulder marinated with garlic and adobo.

Arroz con Gandules –Rice with pigeon peas cooked in sofrito, a traditional Puerto Rican seasoning.

Coquito The island’s creamy coconut rum drink, similar to eggnog but distinctly tropical.

Festive Drinks with a Caribbean Twist

A Caribbean Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a festive tipple or two. Each island has its signature drink, and rum, of course, is never far away.

Sorrel Drink Made from hibiscus petals steeped with ginger, cloves, and sugar, then spiked with rum. It’s tangy, aromatic, and synonymous with Caribbean Christmases.

Ponche de Crème (Trinidad) – A rich, custard-like drink made from condensed milk, eggs, nutmeg, and rum.

Ginger Beer – Homemade and non-alcoholic, often enjoyed by all ages during the holidays.

Christmas Under the Sun

While many parts of the world bundle up against the cold, Caribbean families spend Christmas Day outdoors, enjoying picnics on the beach, cricket matches, or street parties. There’s an unmistakable spirit of joy, generosity, and gratitude that fills the air, often lasting well into January with Old Year’s Night celebrations.

For those dreaming of a warm, flavour-filled Christmas, the Caribbean offers a wonderful reminder that festive cheer comes in many forms — sometimes with palm trees instead of pine, and reggae instead of carols.

Recipe Cards: Bring a Taste of the Caribbean to Your Christmas Table

Sorrel Drink (Caribbean Christmas Punch)

Ingredients:

2 cups dried sorrel (hibiscus petals)

1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, sliced

5 cloves

1 cinnamon stick

6 cups boiling water

½–1 cup sugar (to taste)

½–1 cup dark rum (optional)

Method:

Place sorrel, ginger, cloves and cinnamon in a large heatproof bowl.

Pour boiling water over and leave to steep overnight.

Strain the mixture and sweeten to taste.

Add rum if desired, chill, and serve over ice.

Trinidad Black Cake

Ingredients:

500g mixed dried fruit (raisins, prunes, currants, cherries)

250ml dark rum + extra for soaking

250g butter

200g dark brown sugar

4 eggs

250g plain flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp mixed spice

½ tsp nutmeg

Method:

Soak the dried fruits in rum for at least a week (the longer, the better).

Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs one by one.

Stir in the blended fruit and remaining ingredients.

Pour into a lined cake tin and bake at 160°C (fan 140°C) for about 1½ hours.

Once cooled, brush with extra rum, wrap tightly, and store for up to a month to mature.

Coquito (Puerto Rican Coconut Eggnog)

Ingredients:

1 tin sweetened condensed milk

1 tin evaporated milk

1 tin coconut milk

½ cup white rum (or more to taste)

½ tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp vanilla extract

Method:

Blend all ingredients until smooth.

Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

Serve cold with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

Boost Your Immunity: Foods and Supplements to Keep Cold, Flu, and Other Bugs at Bay for Christmas

As the days grow shorter and colder, we enter the season of sniffles, coughs, and seasonal bugs. 

With Christmas and New Year around the corner, it's more important than ever to safeguard your health so you can enjoy the festive season without battling a cold or flu. 

Whilst vaccines and good hygiene are vitally important, a strong immune system can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to foods and supplements that can give your body the extra edge against winter infections.

1. Load Up on Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the most well-known immune-boosting nutrients, essential for stimulating the production of white blood cells, which are vital in fighting infections. Luckily, this vitamin is easy to find in a variety of fruits and vegetables:

Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are packed with Vitamin C, and a fresh glass of citrus juice is a great way to start your day.

Bell peppers have even more Vitamin C than most citrus fruits.

Kiwis, strawberries, and guava are also excellent choices and make delicious, seasonal additions to fruit salads or snacks.

If fresh options are limited, consider a Vitamin C supplement. For most people, 500-1000 mg per day can give a good boost, but consult your GP if you're considering higher doses.

2. Don’t Forget Zinc

Zinc is another powerful ally against colds. It can help reduce the duration of cold symptoms if taken at the first sign of illness. You can find zinc in foods like:

Red meat, poultry, and shellfish (especially oysters) are rich in zinc.

Pumpkin seeds, beans, and chickpeas provide a vegetarian-friendly zinc source.

For a preventive boost, consider a daily zinc supplement, especially during peak cold and flu season.

3. Boost Your Vitamin D Levels

In the UK, where sunshine can be scarce during the winter months, many people become deficient in Vitamin D. This vitamin plays a critical role in immune function, helping to prevent infections and fight viruses. Foods high in Vitamin D include:

Oily fish (such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines)

Egg yolks and fortified cereals

Mushrooms (especially those exposed to sunlight)

For many, a Vitamin D supplement is necessary during the winter. The NHS recommends adults consider a daily supplement of 10 micrograms (400 IU) during autumn and winter.

4. Probiotics: Support Your Gut Health

Did you know that a large portion of your immune system resides in your gut? Healthy gut flora help regulate immune responses and protect against harmful pathogens. Foods rich in probiotics can boost gut health and improve your immune defences:

Yoghurt, especially those with live cultures, is a good source of beneficial bacteria.

Kefir and kombucha also provide diverse strains of probiotics.

Fermented vegetables like sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles are tangy and immune-friendly.

Consider a probiotic supplement if you’re not a fan of fermented foods. Look for one with multiple strains and a high colony-forming unit (CFU) count for maximum benefit.

5. Spice It Up with Garlic and Ginger

Garlic and ginger are two pantry powerhouses that offer incredible immune-supporting properties:

Garlic is known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties, making it effective against colds. Try adding it to soups, stews, or even roasted veg.

Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It can soothe sore throats and aid digestion. A warming ginger tea with honey can help relieve early cold symptoms.

Both garlic and ginger supplements are available, but fresh options often provide the best benefit.

6. Go Green with Leafy Vegetables

Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that support the immune system. They’re rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and folate—all important for cell repair and protection. You can incorporate greens into smoothies, soups, or even as a side dish to keep your immune system in top form.

7. Add Elderberry and Echinacea for Extra Protection

Elderberry and echinacea are two herbal supplements often associated with fighting respiratory infections. Research suggests they may help reduce the severity and length of colds:

Elderberry is packed with antioxidants and is thought to combat viruses directly. Syrup or capsules are both convenient options.

Echinacea is often taken as a tea, tincture, or capsule and may help reduce inflammation and cold symptoms.

Always follow the dosage instructions and consult your GP if you have any underlying conditions before adding these herbs to your routine.

8. Hydrate with Herbal Teas and Bone Broth

Staying hydrated is key to keeping your immune system strong, as it helps flush out toxins and maintain mucus membranes in the respiratory tract. A few immune-boosting drinks to keep on hand include:

Herbal teas such as chamomile, peppermint, and green tea offer antioxidants and soothing effects.

Bone broth is nutrient-dense, providing amino acids and minerals that help support immune function and gut health.

If you’re feeling under the weather, warm drinks also help relieve sore throats and congestion.

9. Sleep and Stress Management

While not a food or supplement, quality sleep and stress management are vital for a strong immune system. Chronic stress and lack of sleep can lower immune defences, making it easier for colds and flu to take hold. Try practising mindfulness, meditation, or light exercise, and aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to keep your immune system resilient.

In Summary

With the right combination of nutrient-rich foods and well-chosen supplements, you can help your body fend off common colds, flu, and other infections this winter. As you prepare for a cosy Christmas and New Year, taking these small steps will ensure you’re well-protected and ready to enjoy the festivities in good health.

Disclaimer: This guide is meant for general health information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your GP before starting any new supplements, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take other medications.

Baking Special Breads for Christmas Week: A Festive Tradition

As the chill of December fills the air and the festive season begins, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread to warm up your home. 

Christmas week is a time for family, celebration, and indulgence, and what better way to mark the occasion than by baking a selection of special breads that can be enjoyed throughout the holiday?

Here are some delightful breads to add a festive touch to your Christmas week.

1. Stollen: A German Classic

Stollen is a rich, fruit-filled bread that’s synonymous with Christmas. Originating in Germany, this bread is traditionally packed with dried fruits, nuts, marzipan, and a blend of warm spices like cinnamon and cardamom. Dusted with icing sugar, Stollen resembles a snowy winter landscape, making it a perfect centrepiece for your Christmas table.

Ingredients:

500g strong white bread flour

100g caster sugar

10g salt

150ml warm milk

1 egg

100g unsalted butter

200g dried mixed fruits (such as raisins, currants, and sultanas)

100g marzipan

1 tsp ground cinnamon

Zest of 1 lemon and 1 orange

Icing sugar for dusting

Method:

Combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, egg, and butter until well combined.

Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the flour mixture to form a dough.

Knead for about 10 minutes, then add in the dried fruits, zest, and spices.

Let the dough rise for an hour in a warm place.

Once risen, shape the dough and place the marzipan in the centre, folding it over to seal.

Bake at 180°C for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown.

Once cooled, dust generously with icing sugar and serve with mulled wine or hot chocolate.

2. Panettone: The Italian Sweet Bread

Panettone is an Italian Christmas classic that has become beloved worldwide. This tall, sweet bread is light, airy, and studded with candied fruits, citrus peel, and sometimes chocolate. It’s perfect for breakfast on Christmas morning or as an afternoon treat with a cup of tea.

Ingredients:

600g strong white bread flour

100g caster sugar

10g salt

250ml warm milk

3 eggs

150g unsalted butter

200g mixed candied fruits

1 tsp vanilla extract

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tsp yeast

Method:

Start by dissolving the yeast in the warm milk and setting it aside for 5 minutes until frothy.

Mix the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.

Add the yeast mixture, eggs, butter, vanilla, and zest into the dry ingredients, forming a sticky dough.

Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.

Incorporate the candied fruits, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Allow the dough to rise for at least two hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape the dough and place it in a high-sided tin or panettone mould, then bake at 180°C for 40-45 minutes, until golden and risen.

Once cooled, dust with icing sugar or glaze with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.

3. Cranberry and Orange Spiced Loaf

This fruity, spiced loaf is a delightful addition to any Christmas spread. The tartness of cranberries combined with the zestiness of oranges creates a harmonious flavour, while the addition of cinnamon and cloves adds that warming, Christmassy vibe.

Ingredients:

500g plain flour

100g light brown sugar

1 tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp ground cloves

10g salt

100g dried cranberries

Zest of 2 oranges

300ml warm milk

100g unsalted butter

1 egg

Method:

Combine the flour, sugar, spices, and salt in a mixing bowl.

Mix in the milk, butter, and egg to form a dough.

Fold in the cranberries and orange zest.

Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.

Allow the dough to rise for about an hour, or until doubled in size.

Shape the dough into a loaf, place it in a tin, and bake at 180°C for 30-35 minutes.

Brush the top with melted butter once out of the oven, then allow it to cool.

Serve warm with butter or a tangy orange marmalade.

4. Irish Barmbrack: A Taste of Tradition

Though traditionally baked around Halloween, Barmbrack is a wonderful spiced fruit loaf that also fits perfectly into the Christmas week celebrations. It’s light, sweet, and best enjoyed with lashings of butter and a strong cup of tea.

Ingredients:

500g strong white bread flour

75g sugar

10g salt

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground nutmeg

200ml warm milk

1 egg

100g dried fruits

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tsp yeast

Method:

Mix the flour, sugar, spices, and yeast in a bowl.

Add the warm milk and egg, forming a dough.

Knead for 8 minutes, then fold in the dried fruits and lemon zest.

Let the dough rise for an hour, then shape into a round loaf.

Bake at 190°C for 35-40 minutes, until golden brown.

Once cooled, serve with butter and perhaps a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

Conclusion

Christmas week is the perfect time to bake something truly special. These festive breads add a personal and traditional touch to your celebrations, filling your home with warmth, wonderful aromas, and delicious flavours. Whether you’re gathering with family, hosting friends, or simply enjoying a quiet day by the fire, these breads are sure to bring joy to your tabl

Happy baking, and Merry Christmas!

Gran Stead’s for Christmas!

You really do need some Gran Stead's real non-alcoholic ginger wine in for the Christmas and New Year Season!

Alcohol free it may well be. But! It's not for the timorous! Gran Stead's has a bite and a kick more associated with a mule than with a so-called soft drink!

It has a traditional and proper taste of real ginger, like ginger drinks used to taste of, until they decided to go all chemical and 'nature identical' on us!

But there's none of that artificial nonsense with Gran Stead's! It gives you exactly what it says on the bottle!

It mixes well with other drinks so can be at home in a glass by itself or as part of a cocktail for Christmas.

It is also your editor's experience that it also helps should you get one of those nasty little Christmas time sniffles! Though warming it up to help make a nice hot toddy is a good idea, here.