The Sweet History of Royal Icing and How to Make It for Your Christmas Cake

Royal icing is a classic staple in the world of baking, known for its smooth, glossy finish and ability to set hard, making it perfect for detailed decorations.

Its origins are steeped in regal tradition, and its versatility ensures it remains a favourite among bakers today. Let’s get into the history of this confectionery marvel and learn how to make it.

A Regal Past: The History of Royal Icing

The term "royal icing" dates back to the early 18th century, but its most notable historical connection is to Queen Victoria. Legend has it that the icing gained its royal moniker when it was used to decorate her wedding cake in 1840. The elaborate white icing symbolised purity and became a hallmark of opulence, setting the standard for wedding cakes for generations to come.

Before its association with the British monarchy, similar sugar pastes were used in European confectionery, particularly in Italy, where intricate sugar work was a sign of wealth and refinement. Over time, the technique evolved, and the addition of egg whites created the stable, pipeable icing we know today.

Royal icing's popularity soared during the Victorian era, thanks to advances in sugar refinement and the increasing availability of sugar to the middle class. It became a standard for decorating festive treats such as Christmas cakes, gingerbread houses, and biscuits, and it remains a beloved tradition for these occasions.

What Makes Royal Icing Special?

Royal icing is unique because it hardens completely when dried, making it ideal for intricate designs that hold their shape. It’s also incredibly versatile: you can use it to flood cookies with a smooth base, pipe delicate details, or construct gingerbread houses. The icing’s glossy finish adds a professional touch, elevating baked goods to edible works of art.

How to Make Royal Icing

Making royal icing at home is straightforward, requiring only a few ingredients. Here's a classic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients

2 large egg whites (or 4 tbsp of pasteurised egg whites if preferred for safety)

450g icing sugar, sifted

1 tsp lemon juice or vanilla extract (optional, for flavour)

Method

Prepare the Egg Whites

Place the egg whites in a clean, grease-free bowl. Beat them lightly with a fork or whisk until frothy.

Add the Icing Sugar

Gradually add the sifted icing sugar, one spoonful at a time, mixing on low speed with an electric mixer. This helps avoid creating a sugar cloud in your kitchen.

Mix to the Desired Consistency

Increase the mixer speed to medium and continue beating until the icing is smooth, glossy, and forms stiff peaks. Add the lemon juice or vanilla extract for flavour and beat briefly to incorporate.

Adjust Consistency as Needed

For piping, you want a stiff consistency that holds its shape.

For flooding (creating a smooth layer on biscuits), thin the icing by adding water, a few drops at a time, until it flows smoothly.

Use or Store

Transfer the icing to piping bags or an airtight container. If not using immediately, cover it with cling film touching the surface to prevent a crust from forming.

Tips for Perfect Royal Icing

Colouring: Use gel or paste food colouring to avoid altering the icing's consistency.

Drying Time: Allow 6–24 hours for decorations to fully dry, depending on thickness.

Storage: Royal icing can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature or a week in the fridge. Re-whip before use if it separates.

A Timeless Decoration

From its royal origins to modern-day masterpieces, royal icing continues to enchant bakers and sweet-toothed enthusiasts alike. Whether you're decorating Christmas biscuits, crafting an elaborate cake, or building a gingerbread house, this icing is a testament to the art of baking. With its history rooted in tradition and its versatility unmatched, royal icing remains a crowning glory in the world of confections.

Give this recipe a try, and add a touch of royal elegance to your next Christmas cake!

The History of the Empire Cake and how to Bake it, With a Christmas Twist

The Empire Cake, a classic British treat, carries a legacy that combines humble origins with enduring popularity. 

Emerging during the early 20th century, it was particularly favoured during times of scarcity, such as the interwar period and World War II, when frugality and resourcefulness were key in the kitchen. 

Its roots lie in the inventive use of leftover cake or biscuit crumbs, transformed into something new and delightful.

This cake was often associated with the spirit of the British Empire, symbolising unity through its blending of simple yet varied ingredients. The recipe evolved over time, becoming a cherished bake in many households and bakeries across the UK. Today, the Empire Cake is celebrated not just for its nostalgic appeal but also for its simplicity and rich, fruity flavour.

Recipe for Empire Cake

Ingredients

For the Cake:

175g (6 oz) self-raising flour

150g (5 oz) butter or margarine (softened)

150g (5 oz) caster sugar

3 medium eggs

1 tsp baking powder

50g (2 oz) ground almonds (optional, for added texture)

100g (4 oz) dried mixed fruit

50g (2 oz) glacé cherries (halved)

1 tsp vanilla extract

Zest of 1 lemon

For Decoration:

200g (7 oz) icing sugar

2–3 tbsp lemon juice (or water)

A handful of glacé cherries or sprinkles

Method

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 170°C (150°C fan)/Gas Mark 3. Grease and line a 20cm (8-inch) round cake tin.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder into the mixture. Gently fold it in with a spatula, followed by the ground almonds (if using).

Incorporate Fruits: Toss the mixed dried fruit and glacé cherries in a little flour (to prevent sinking) and fold them into the batter. Add the lemon zest for extra zing.

Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared tin and level the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Decorate: Mix the icing sugar with enough lemon juice to create a thick yet pourable icing. Drizzle over the cooled cake and decorate with glacé cherries or sprinkles as desired.

Serving Suggestions

Empire Cake is perfect for afternoon tea or as a lunchbox treat. Its combination of buttery richness and fruity bursts makes it universally appealing. For a seasonal twist, you can replace the dried fruit with cranberries and add a hint of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a Christmas version. 

The Empire Cake is more than a dessert; it’s a slice of history that reflects the resourcefulness and creativity of British bakers. Whether you’re making it for the first time or reviving a family tradition, it’s a recipe that deserves a spot in every kitchen.

And in the best traditions of all bakery TV programmes, here's one we prepared earlier! Or, at least, one my wife iced and decorated this afternoon!

Hot tubs and air fryers on the Aldi Christmas Tree

Aldi is unveiling limited-edition Christmas baubles to celebrate some iconic Festive Specialbuys.

Kitchen gadgets, garden tools and household items form part of new handmade Christmas decoration range from supermarket

Aldi’s Specialbuy Baubles are based on the most popular and random items sold, including the heated airer, chainsaw and air fryer.

Three-quarters (77%) of Brits admit to buying a Specialbuy having only gone in store for a food shop

The limited-edition festive decorations will be available for lucky customers to win

By Sunday 8th December half of the nation will have put up their tree and decorations

An air fryer, chainsaw and inflatable hot tub, all in the form of Christmas baubles, are the latest festive must-haves this December.

Aldi has unveiled its stunning collection of Specialbuy Baubles ahead of Christmas trees being put up across the nation this week.

A poll of 2,000 Brits by the supermarket reveals half the nation (50%) will have put up and decorated their tree by Sunday 8th December, with seven in ten (70%) Brits admitting to loving putting their Christmas decorations up when the time comes.

Additional bauble designs that make up the festive decoration set include a heated airer, pressure washer and kayak.

The baubles, which have been carefully crafted in 3D-printed resin and hand-finished with glitter and gemstones, are based on the most popular items sold by the supermarket.

Aldi’s air fryer range has become a shopper favourite since being introduced to the middle aisle in 2021 and often sells out within 24 hours. The winged heated airer is also in high demand, with Aldi selling nearly 70,000 over the past two years.

The pressure washer and petrol chainsaw have also been consistent best sellers in the DIY range for the past three years, proving the nation’s love for a quirky gardening middle aisle item. The inflatable hot tub has repeatedly sold out whenever it’s been available in Aldi’s middle aisle.

Aldi’s study also revealed the shopping habits of the nation when it comes to the supermarket’s Specialbuys.

Over three-quarters (77%) of Brits admit to coming out of a store with a Specialbuy purchase, having only popped in for a quick food shop.

Aldi’s ‘middle aisle’ items provide a huge range of choice for shoppers, ranging from gardening gear to kitchen gadgets and miscellaneous must-haves.

Further research conducted by the supermarket has shown that a whopping 90% of shoppers visit the middle aisle when doing their weekly shop regardless of whether they buy anything.

Nearly two-thirds (64%) of the nation look forward to visiting the middle aisle when they shop, and 84% have gone into a store just to see what’s on offer.

Julie Ashfield, Md of Buying at Aldi UK, says: “At Aldi, we know our Specialbuys are one of the reasons shoppers love to visit our stores, as they never know what they’re going to find whilst doing their weekly food shop.

“This Christmas, we wanted to celebrate our wonderful middle aisle in a festive and fun way. From hot tubs to air fryers, these baubles are a must-have for Specialbuy fans. Shoppers looking to get their hands on a pack of these limited-edition baubles will need to be quick, because as with all Aldi Specialbuys, once they’re gone, they’re gone!”

Aldi’s Specialbuy Baubles come complete in special festive brand packaging and showcase just some of what’s on offer in Aldi supermarkets this Christmas.

To enter the competition to win a pack of Aldi’s limited-edition Specialbuy Baubles, shoppers should email specialbuybaubles@aldi.co.uk with their full name and address before 8th December. Those who email will also be entered into a draw to win a £5 Aldi voucher.

For more information, please visit www.aldi.co.uk/specialbuybaubles

Two Turtle Doves….’: How Tesco and the RSPB are working together to help the Christmas mainstay thrive on UK farms

The recovery of the Turtle Dove, a vital part of the popular Christmas song, ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ could soon be accelerating across farmland in East Anglia after the launch of a new partnership between Tesco and the RSPB.

They'll work hand-in-hand to provide dedicated conservation and habitat advice, with an aim to support over 300 farmers and landowners in East Anglia to adopt nature-friendly farming approaches. 

The area is one of Tesco’s key regions for sourcing fresh produce, and the partnership will create vital habitats for Turtle Doves and other at-risk bird species, such as Lapwings and Stone Curlews.

Expert advisors will offer backing to farmers, including those who suppl Tesco, and local community owned land with advice on creating and enhancing spaces for nature including tree planting and hedgerow laying, creating and restoring ponds, establishing grass and scrub buffer strips, and adding flower-rich field boundary areas.

Providing good quality wildlife habitats not only improves biodiversity and supports a range of species, but also support farm resilience by boosting pollination, offering natural pest management, and improving soil health, allowing it to hold water for longer which can provide protection against extreme weather caused by drought and flooding.

Advisors will also signpost farmers on how to access existing funding opportunities to achieve this, such as the recently updated Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI).

The Turtle Dove is the UK’s only long-distance migratory dove and is an indicator species of good farmland biodiversity. 

The birds rely on small seeds from low-growing flowering plants for food, tall dense thorny scrub or hedgerows for nesting, and access to fresh drinking water in order to thrive. 

Since the late 1960s they’ve suffered the most extreme decline of any bird species in the UK, but there is evidence the tide is turning with the first exciting signs of recovery. 

With a hunting ban in place in western Europe since 2021, that population has already increased by 25%. Now, ensuring the UK landscape is ‘Turtle Dove Ready’ with plenty of high-quality habitat for these birds to breed, is a top priority.

Speaking about the launch of the new partnership, Ashwin Prasad, Tesco’s Chief Commercial Officer said:  “The UK food industry relies on healthy soils, clean water supplies, and abundant biodiversity, so it’s vital we play our part in protecting and restoring nature in our supply chain, including in East Anglia, a key sourcing region for much of our UK-grown fresh produce. 

“Our farmers and suppliers in East Anglia want to do as much as they can to help protect and restore nature in the area, so we’re delighted to be working in partnership with the RSPB on such a crucial project. They will bring a huge amount of expertise and experience, and I’m sure will play a pivotal role in encouraging many of these at-risk species back to the farmland of the region.”

Katie-Jo Luxton, Director of Conservation at the RSPB, added: “In our lifetimes, nearly half of our farmland birds, mammals, amphibians, insects and invertebrates have disappeared, along with 97% of our wildflower meadows. 

Thankfully, dedicated nature-friendly farmers and conservationists are already taking action to bring habitats and wildlife back across the UK, but support for their actions from across the supply chain - from consumers to supermarkets - will be crucial if we are to deliver at the scale nature needs. 

We know we can’t reverse the tide for nature without farmers, and we’re looking forward to working together with Tesco, their suppliers and farmers, and community groups to help wildlife flourish in our countryside once more.” 

G’s, which has farms across England, including East Anglia, is a key supplier of fresh produce to Tesco. They are already seeing the benefits of protecting and restoring nature on their farms.

Peter Sargeant, MD of G’s Fresh in Norfolk said:  “At G’s Norfolk Farms we have created a unique habitat combining large scale salad and vegetable production, while allowing wildlife to flourish. 

"Across our 1,400ha farm, we have c.10% of our total farm in uncropped areas, with 70 miles of native fen species, willow and alder hedgerows and 80 miles of interconnected watercourses and ditches which and provide a natural habitat for biodiversity and Fenland birds to thrive. 

"We've been able to monitor good populations of farmland specialist indicator species of grey partridge, corn bunting, yellow wagtail, whitethroat, lapwing and skylark across the farm as well as breeding barn owls, kestrels and marsh harriers. 

"We're very proud to host one of the UK’s largest populations of breeding Nightingales that return not only to the farm but the same bush year after year.”  

The partnership is the latest to be announced as part of Tesco’s Nature Programme, a series of initiatives and partnerships which will help to protect and restore nature in some of Tesco’s key sourcing landscapes.

Support will also be provided to the RSPB’s Big Give Christmas Challenge 2024, a 1-week matched fundraising campaign aimed at raising funds to support Operation Turtle Dove. 

The partnership, will see Tesco support the RSPB through social shares and engagement, increasing the reach and awareness of the Big Give and Operation Turtle Dove to its followers.

By offering dedicated advisory support to farmers and landowners, informed by the RSPB’s world-class conservation expertise, the project will enable the scaling-up of existing programmes to support biodiversity and address the impact of agriculture on nature. 

A fantastic Christmas gift to not only our Turtle Doves but everyone of us!

How to Avoid the Classic Christmas Turkey Disaster

Christmas dinner is the centrepiece of the festive season, but every year, countless households unintentionally spoil the feast by mishandling the turkey. 

Whether it’s buying a substandard bird, failing to thaw a frozen one in time, or undercooking it, mistakes can lead to a less-than-merry meal—or worse, food poisoning. 

The good news is that these pitfalls are entirely avoidable with proper planning and care. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensuring your turkey is both safe and delicious this Christmas.

The Basics: Fresh vs. Frozen

Before you even think about how to prepare your turkey, you need to decide whether to go fresh or frozen. Both have their pros and cons:

Fresh turkeys: These are convenient if you have limited freezer space and can often taste better due to the lack of freezing. However, they require prompt cooking to avoid spoilage.

Frozen turkeys: These are often more affordable and can be bought well in advance, making them a great option for planners. The downside? They take time (and patience) to thaw correctly.

Proper Handling: Fresh Turkeys

A fresh turkey may sound like less hassle, but it requires careful handling:

Keep it cold: Your turkey should be refrigerated at 0–5°C. Place it on a tray or dish to catch any drips and avoid cross-contamination.

Use it quickly: Fresh turkeys should be cooked within two days of purchase. Don’t leave them lingering in the fridge!

Avoid washing: Rinsing raw poultry can splash harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter onto nearby surfaces. Instead, pat it dry with paper towels.

Proper Handling: Frozen Turkeys

Frozen turkeys are a brilliant option, but they need to be treated with care to ensure they’re safe to eat. Here’s how:

Plan for thawing: A large turkey can take days to thaw properly. The rule of thumb is to allow 24 hours of fridge thawing time for every 2kg of bird.

Thaw safely: Always thaw the turkey in the fridge. Never defrost it on the counter, as this encourages bacteria to grow. If you’re short on time, you can defrost it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.

Check for readiness: Before cooking, ensure the turkey is fully thawed. The breast and cavity should be soft, with no ice crystals remaining.

Cooking: The Golden Rules

The way you cook your turkey will make or break your Christmas dinner. Follow these guidelines for success:

Stuff wisely: If you’re stuffing the bird, do it just before cooking. Pre-stuffing can lead to bacterial growth. Better yet, cook the stuffing separately to ensure it’s heated evenly.

Cook thoroughly: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey. It should reach 74°C in the thickest part of the breast and 82°C in the thigh.

Rest it: Once cooked, let the turkey rest for at least 20–30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier bird.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Leaving the giblets in: Always remove the giblets before cooking! They’re often hidden in the cavity, so don’t forget to check.

Undercooking: Pink meat isn’t festive. Use a thermometer to guarantee doneness.

Not planning ahead: Whether it’s forgetting to thaw the bird or running out of fridge space, poor planning can derail the day.

The Takeaway

Your Christmas turkey doesn’t have to be a source of stress or disappointment. With a little forethought and proper care, you can serve a meal that your family and friends will rave about. By safely handling and correctly cooking your turkey, you’ll avoid the pitfalls that turn festive cheer into culinary calamity.

Here’s to a perfectly roasted turkey and a joyous Christmas dinner!

Preventing Food Waste This Christmas: Tips to Reduce and Reuse

The festive season is a time of joy, family, and indulgence. 

But behind the celebrations lies a sobering statistic: every Christmas in the UK, 263,000 turkeys, 740,000 portions of Christmas pudding, and over 7.5 million mince pies are thrown away. 

These numbers are staggering, not just in terms of wasted food but also in the resources, energy, and money lost in producing it.

This Christmas, let’s make a conscious effort to reduce food waste while still enjoying the magic of the season. Here are some practical tips to help you shop, cook, and share sustainably.

1. Plan Your Meals Wisely

Before heading to the shops, take stock of what you already have in your cupboards, fridges or freezers. Plan your Christmas meals with a shopping list based on realistic portions per person. Overbuying often leads to waste, so think carefully about how many people you’re hosting and whether they’ll actually eat that third helping of pudding.

2. Get Creative with Leftovers

Christmas leftovers are the gift that keeps on giving! Transform turkey into delicious sandwiches, soups, or curries. Mince pies can be crumbled into trifles or served warm with cream for a quick dessert. Christmas pudding can be reinvented into ice cream or baked into muffins. Websites like Love Food Hate Waste are full of inspiration to help you turn leftovers into new meals.

3. Store Food Properly

Storing food correctly can significantly extend its shelf life:

Freeze anything you can’t eat immediately, from turkey meat to leftover sauces.

Use airtight containers for baked goods like mince pies.

Keep vegetables like carrots and parsnips in the fridge crisper drawer to keep them fresh.

4. Offer "Doggy Bags" to Guests

If your guests loved the meal, they’ll likely appreciate taking some leftovers home. Invest in reusable containers or paper bags so you can share the feast and prevent waste.

5. Donate Unopened Extras

If you realise you’ve bought too much, consider donating unopened, non-perishable items to a local food bank. Many UK charities, such as the Trussell Trust, accept festive food items to support those in need.

6. Compost Scraps

Inevitable scraps like vegetable peelings or fruit skins can be composted instead of thrown away. Composting reduces the amount of waste sent to landfill and creates nutrient-rich soil for your garden.

7. Rethink Portion Sizes

It’s tempting to cook a mountain of food to ensure no one goes hungry, but most people won’t miss a second or third dessert option. Serving moderate portions can also help guests savour each dish rather than overindulging and leaving food unfinished.

8. Love Your Freezer

A freezer is your best ally in reducing waste. Cooked turkey, stuffing, and even puddings freeze well for future meals. Be sure to label containers with dates and contents for easy access later.

9. Spread Awareness

Food waste isn’t just a personal issue; it’s a societal one. Share tips with friends and family, and encourage conversations about sustainability during the holiday season. Small changes, collectively, can lead to significant impacts.

A Christmas to Remember

By being mindful of food waste this Christmas, you’ll save money, reduce your environmental footprint, and make the festive season even more meaningful. After all, the true spirit of Christmas lies in generosity and care—not just for each other but for the planet too.

Let’s make this Christmas one to remember—for all the right reasons!

What steps will you take to reduce food waste this holiday season? Share your tips and ideas below!

Statistics from https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/insights-and-media/insights/blogs/cutting-festive-season-food-waste-making-sustainable-changes-from-farm-to-fork

"Explore our merry and shimmering Christmas collections!" invites Dunelm

Dunelm, dubbed The Home of Homes, is inviting people to make their way to their nearest branch or to visit their website to help source all their Christmas requirements from a new rug for the room that grandma will be staying in to new kitchen gadgets and requirements through to a new dining table and chairs right through to Christmas gifts, decorations and much, much more, besides.

Debbie Drake, who is Design Director at Dunelm said: “I’m delighted to share our Christmas collection, and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as we do. 

"This year, we’ve worked hard to provide more choice than ever before. Maximalism is having a moment, and we’re playing into that with our vibrant and playful Merry & Bright look – but every one of our four themes has a sense of abundance that feels inherently festive. 

This season is a time for layering and indulgence, and for choosing new decorations to add to already-treasured collections – pieces we hope will bring joy to Christmases at home for many years to come. After all, we are The Home of Homes.”

https://www.dunelm.com