The Essential Sauces, Chutneys and Pickles for Your Christmastime Larder

Discover the essential sauces, chutneys and pickles to stock in your Christmastime larder, perfect for roasts, leftovers, cheese boards and festive buffets.

Christmastime brings together family, friends, and, let’s be honest, a lot of food. 

Whether you’re hosting the full feast, putting on a Boxing Day buffet, or simply trying to stay prepared for unexpected visitors, your festive larder is your secret weapon. 

Stocking it with the right sauces, chutneys, and pickles ensures that even the simplest leftovers or cold cuts can be transformed into something delicious.

Here’s a handy guide to what every Christmas kitchen should have at the ready.

1. Cranberry Sauce – the Christmas Classic

No festive table is complete without cranberry sauce. Whether you go for smooth, whole berry or a homemade spiced version, this is essential for turkey, nut roasts and Boxing Day sandwiches.

Tip: A jar of cranberry relish with orange or port adds extra luxury.

2. Bread Sauce – Comfort in a Bowl

A very British staple and often overlooked. Bread sauce pairs beautifully with poultry, gammon and even roasted vegetables.

Top up your larder: Pre-made sachets store well, but a homemade batch can be frozen ahead of time.

3. Horseradish – Not Just for Beef

Fiery, fragrant and incredibly versatile. Horseradish is a brilliant partner for roast beef, cold cuts and smoked fish. It also lifts leftover mash when stirred through.

4. English Mustard and Dijon Mustard

Two mustards, two purposes:

English mustard for heat and punch

Dijon mustard for creaminess and subtlety

Perfect for glazes, roast dinners, cheese boards and sauces.

5. Apple Sauce – For Pork, Turkey and Beyond

Usually associated with pork, apple sauce is also wonderful with turkey crown, savoury stuffing and many vegetarian centrepieces.

If you spot an apple and cider version, even better.

6. Redcurrant Jelly – A Roast Dinner Hero

Redcurrant jelly doesn’t get the attention cranberry sauce does, but it should. It cuts through richness, pairs brilliantly with lamb and beef, and adds gorgeous flavour to gravies.

7. Chutneys for the Boxing Day Feast

Boxing Day practically demands a chutney or three. Stock up on:

Caramelised onion chutney for cheese and pies

Ploughman’s chutney for cold meats

Tomato and chilli chutney for a little festive fire

A good chutney transforms leftovers into a full meal.

8. Pickled Onions – A Festive Favourite

Crisp, sharp and irresistible on any buffet table.

The strong ones are perfect with Cheddar and pork pie; milder sweet pickled onions are brilliant with pâté or sandwiches.

9. Cornichons and Gherkins

Small but mighty. These sharp little pickles cut through the richness of cheese boards, charcuterie, cold ham and terrines.

Keep one jar of classic gherkins and one jar of cornichons for variety.

10. Piccalilli – A British Treasure

That tangy, mustard-yellow mixture of cauliflower, onions and other vegetables is unbeatable with gammon, sausages, pork pies and cheese.

It’s one of the most useful jars in your Christmas cupboard.

11. Mint Sauce – Not Just for Spring Lamb

A light and refreshing counterbalance to heavier dishes.

Lovely with lamb, of course, but it also perks up leftover roast potatoes.

12. Gravy Granules and Stock Concentrates

Even if you plan to make gravy from scratch, always have a backup.

Christmas is hectic—and nothing ruins the mood like discovering you’re short on gravy during service.

13. Sweet Sauces and Pouring Treats

Keep a small sweet section ready for puddings and festive bakes:

Brandy butter

Vanilla custard

Salted caramel sauce

Chocolate sauce

Perfect for mince pies, Christmas pudding and impromptu desserts.

14. Chilli Jam – The Modern Must-Have

A dollop of chilli jam makes everything better: cheese boards, sausages, roasted veg, and even brie-topped crackers on Christmas Eve.

If you’ve never tried it, Christmas is the ideal excuse.

A well-stocked Christmastime larder gives you flexibility, creativity and peace of mind. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in quiet leftover meals between festivities, the right condiments elevate every plate.

Prepare now, and you’ll glide through the season with flavour and flair.

Celebrate every festive moment with Costa Coffee’s NEW Christmas menu

NEW Dubai-Style Pistachio Tiffin and Butter Pecan Cookie Latte join the menu

Festive favourites for every ritual, including the returning Pigs & Blankets Toastie

Seasonal gifting range brings Costa Coffee magic home – with branded plushies!

Christmas starts early this Friday (24th October 2025), as the Nation’s Favourite Coffee Shop, Costa Coffee unwraps its NEW festive menu. 

Whether you’re dashing through the shops, catching up with friends, or simply craving a taste of the season, Costa Coffee’s festive range is ready to make every sip and bite feel like a celebration. 

Christmas in every cup 

The star of this year’s festive drinks is the totally NEW Butter Pecan Cookie Latte, a delicious seasonal twist on a Latte. Topped with light whip and butter pecan cookie pieces, it transforms every coffee break into a little celebration. 

Alongside this newcomer, customers can rediscover their beloved festive favourites, each one capturing the magic of the Christmas season. 

Highlights include the returning Mint Hot Chocolate, Terry's Chocolate Orange® Hot Chocolate and the Black Forest Hot Chocolate, evoking the comfort of a long-awaited hug.  

Also returning is the Caramel Nutcracker Range, available as a Hot Chocolate, Latte, and Iced Latte, along with the classic Gingerbread Latte, which bring a joyful nod to childhood festive memories. 

For gingerbread lovers, Costa Coffee’s Barista Creations Gingerbread Latte Sachets deliver barista-quality comfort with a festive twist straight to your mug, and are available in major supermarkets. 

And for those on the move, from Thursday 23rd of October, the Caramel Nutcracker Range can be enjoyed at Costa Express machines nationwide, while the NEW Butter Pecan Cookie Latte, Hot Chocolate and Iced Latte are available exclusively at Costa Express machines in Shell service station locations.

This festive season, Costa Coffee invites everyone to embrace The Costa Christmas Catch Up with its limited-edition Christmas cups, available in all sizes in stores and in regular and large at Costa Express machines nationwide. Wrapped in the signature Costa Coffee red and adorned with charming outdoor winter scenes, each design reflects the warmth of festive moments shared together. These cups are made to celebrate connection, bringing a touch of seasonal cheer to every sip. 

Food for every festive ritual 

Costa Coffee’s festive food menu is back, packed with hearty toasties and irresistible sweet treats. 

For lunchtime bites, festive favourites return, such as the much-loved Turkey & Trimmings Toastie, Pigs & Blankets Toastie, Brie & Cranberry Toastie, Turkey Feast Sandwich, and the Brie, Bacon & Cranberry Panini. 

For those with a sweet tooth, Costa Coffee unveils a tempting new range. The NEW Dubai Style Pistachio Tiffin (available from Thursday 6th November) brings a rich fusion of chocolate, pistachio and festive crunch, while the NEW Caramel Nutcracker Cookie Sandwich layers hazelnut frosting and caramel between two dark chocolate cookies. 

What's more, the NEW Festive Spice Muffin is packed with fruit and sticky toffee sauce for the ultimate seasonal bite. And to make things even sweeter, each purchase will have a 25p donation to the Costa Foundation. 

And, of course, returning favourites are back to delight, from the Iced Penguin Gingerbread Biscuits (available from 6th November), Berry Red Velvet Mini Loaf, Chocolate & Caramel Nutcracker Cake, Gingernut Loaf Cake and Festive Bakewell Tart. 

Nishant Bhatia, Costa Coffee's Global Food and Beverage Innovation Director,told That's Christmas  365: “This Christmas, we’re bringing festive moments to life with a menu full of joy and indulgence. 

"From our brand-new Butter Pecan Cookie Latte and Dubai-Style Pistachio Tiffin to returning favourites like the Pigs in Blanket Toastie, every drink and bite is designed to make those Christmas catch-ups and family gathering feel extra special." 

Seasonal gifts for every coffee-lover 

Costa Coffee’s festive magic extends beyond food and drink with this year’s seasonal merchandise and gifting range: 

Festive Cups – From stainless steel and plastic travel cups to a classic ceramic design, perfect for sipping in style. 

Cappuccino Gift Set, Complete with a stencil, mug, and duster, a thoughtful gift for budding baristas. 

Costa Coffee Plushies – Cuddle up this Winter with branded plushies shaped like a Costa Coffee cup or a festive gingerbread character. 

Costa Coffee’s festive menu launches from Friday 24th October 2025 in stores nationwide. 

Download and join the Costa Club app today to enjoy exclusive rewards, effortless pre-ordering and meaningful moments, because every cup of Costa coffee is made with heart. Visit costa.co.uk/costa-club to find out more. 

To discover your nearest Costa Coffee or Costa Express machine and enjoy the Costa Coffee Christmas range this season, use Costa's branch locator https://www.costa.co.uk/locations/store-locator.

Pricing for Costa Coffee’s festive merchandise range: 

Festive 16oz Plastic Travel Cup - £6.50 

Festive 16oz Stainless Steel Travel Cup - £12.50 

Festive Ceramic Cup - £9.95 

Cappuccino Gift Set - £14.95 

Plushies - £7.50 

I must admit that my wife and I do love our Costa drinks and meals. Especially the festive offerings!

A Sweet Christmas Tradition: Learning to Make Confectionery for Gifting

Image courtesy Total Shape & Pixabay

As the air turns crisp and the nights grow longer, there’s something especially heart-warming about the festive season in the UK. 

For many of us, Christmas is a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing meals, and exchanging thoughtful gifts. This year, why not add a personal touch to your gift-giving by learning to make confectionery? 

There's something undeniably special about receiving homemade treats, crafted with care and attention. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, the art of making sweet delicacies at home is a rewarding experience.

A New Tradition: Handmade Christmas Sweets

In a world where shop-bought goods often dominate, the act of creating something by hand stands out. Confectionery, in particular, has a magical appeal. The shimmer of boiled sweets, the silky texture of chocolate truffles, and the satisfying snap of brittle – these treats evoke a sense of nostalgia and indulgence. Plus, they make fantastic, budget-friendly gifts that can be tailored to suit the preferences of your friends and family.

Learning to make your own Christmas confectionery not only taps into festive traditions but also allows you to explore a creative side that might be otherwise overlooked during the hustle and bustle of the season.

Getting Started: Basic Equipment

Before getting into the wonderful world of confectionery, it’s worth noting that a few key pieces of equipment can make the process smoother. These items are likely to be found in most kitchens, but a quick check is advisable:

Digital thermometer: Essential for getting sugar to just the right temperature for caramel, toffee, or fudge.

Saucepan with a heavy bottom: Prevents sugar from burning during cooking.

Silicone spatula: Ideal for mixing without the worry of melting or sticking.

Baking tray and greaseproof paper: Perfect for setting chocolates or hard sweets.

Simple Sweets to Start With

If you’re new to making confectionery, it’s best to start with recipes that are forgiving and fun to make. Here are a few ideas to get your sweet journey started:

1. Fudge

A quintessential British treat, fudge is relatively simple to make and can be flavoured in many ways, from classic vanilla to festive flavours like cinnamon or rum and raisin. With just a few ingredients – sugar, butter, condensed milk, and a bit of flavouring – you can create something rich and creamy that everyone will love. Remember to stir constantly and use a thermometer to ensure the perfect set.

2. Peppermint Creams

These no-cook, melt-in-your-mouth sweets are ideal for beginners. With just icing sugar, condensed milk, and peppermint extract, you can whip up a batch in no time. Dip half in chocolate for an extra indulgent touch, and they’ll look especially festive wrapped in cellophane or placed in small gift boxes.

3. Honeycomb (Cinder Toffee)

The crackling, bubbly texture of honeycomb is as fun to make as it is to eat. All you need is sugar, golden syrup, bicarbonate of soda, and a dash of water. Be ready with your saucepan and a greased tin to pour it into, as it sets quickly. Break it into shards once cooled and dip some in chocolate for added luxury.

Adventurous Options for the Enthusiast

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it might be time to tackle more complex confections. These recipes require a little more attention to detail, but the results are worth the effort.

1. Turkish Delight

This delicate, floral-scented treat makes a unique and elegant gift. While it does take a bit more patience – boiling sugar to the correct temperature and allowing it to set overnight – the soft, jelly-like cubes rolled in icing sugar make for a memorable homemade gift.

2. Chocolate Truffles

Rich, creamy truffles are an indulgent favourite and surprisingly simple to make once you get the hang of tempering chocolate. Flavour your ganache with liqueurs like Baileys, or mix in crushed nuts or sea salt for a sophisticated twist. These can be rolled in cocoa, dusted with icing sugar, or coated in melted chocolate for a polished look.

Presentation: Wrapping Your Creations

Part of the charm of gifting homemade confectionery is in the presentation. Once your sweets have cooled and set, consider how to package them to make them look as lovely as they taste. Simple ideas include:

Cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon.

Small tins or boxes lined with tissue paper.

Glass jars with a handwritten label.

For a more sustainable option, you could also wrap your sweets in greaseproof paper and tie them with biodegradable twine. Personalised tags or small cards with the recipe add a thoughtful touch, especially if you’re gifting to fellow food lovers.

Tips for Success

Measure Accurately: Confectionery is a science, so using a scale to measure your ingredients will ensure consistent results.

Be Patient: Allow plenty of time for your sweets to set and cool properly. Rushing this part of the process can lead to sticky, unmanageable treats.

Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t come out exactly as planned. Experiment with different flavours and techniques, and soon you’ll find your stride.

Final Thoughts

Learning to make confectionery for Christmas gifting brings a deeper connection to the festive season. It allows you to slow down, get creative, and enjoy the process of making something with love. Whether you stick to simple, nostalgic favourites or take on more advanced recipes, homemade sweets offer a personal and delightful way to spread holiday cheer. And who knows? It might just become your favourite new tradition.

So, dust off that apron, get your ingredients ready, and let your kitchen be filled with the sweet scents of Christmas!

I'll be making some of these for my wife. Well, except for the Chocolate Truffles due to my wife's chocolate allergy!