Innholdsfortegnelse for 2023 i Simply Christmas

SAVE! GET 20% OFF AT Kocktail TRY A WIDE RANGE OF FESTIVE COCKTAILS WITH SUPER SAVINGS AT READY-MIXED DRINKS STORE, KOCKTAIL.CO.UK If you love a cocktail, handmade by a professional bartender, then Kocktail is for you! Each bottle is mixed with the best ingredients so when you drink it at home, it tastes like it should. Choose from classic recipes to all-new festive ones. Use your exclusive discount code SC20 to buy ready to shake-and-serve bottles or gift boxes, perfect for under the tree or to get the party started! TERMS AND CONDITIONS The discount code is 20% off a customer’s entire order and is valid site-wide. End date is 23.59 on December 31 2023. This discount code can only be used once per customer and is not valid in…

We are witnessing a new era unfolding. Last year, King Charles III gave his debut Christmas speech and the family gathered at Sandringham, the King’s private Norfolk estate, for the first time since Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip died. Charles, a modernising monarch rooted in tradition, is at ease letting the younger generation step up. In another festive first, we saw the then four-year-old Prince Louis take part in the traditional Christmas Day walk to the Church of St Mary Magdalene (above). Just like his show-stealing appearance during the Platinum Jubilee, little Louis was a smash hit. The morning walk is the only time the world catches a glimpse of the royals chilling out at Christmas. However, this year may well signify a change of plans for the Prince and…

“The lead up to Christmas is a very busy time for posting gift vouchers out to loved ones. A pet photography session makes a wonderful gift as not only is it a fun experience for people to do with their pet but the resulting photographs serve as lasting reminders of the joy and love shared with our furry friends,” photographer, Alexandra Robins explains. “Pets hold a special place in our hearts, and capturing their essence and moments in time is truly priceless. My camera is set to photograph fast moving and excitable pets and this allows me to capture funny facial expressions as well as beautiful moments we could have easily missed. My favourite kinds of shot to catch are distracted puppies trying to chase leaves, the full speed action…

One of the wonderful things about Christmas is that it means something different to everybody. When friends, family and couples come together to celebrate on the big day, it’s wonderful to hear all the different traditions each family have – when they open presents, whether they watch the King’s speech, that must-watch festive movie and how early you can pop the cork on a bottle of fizz. Although it may require a little compromise to make a day that suits everyone, often new traditions are made. “At the first ‘Covid’ Christmas in 2020, sadly our usual family couldn’t all pile into our house,” says journalist Nicola Pearson, “so our kids decided they wanted gyoza (Japanese dumplings) for Christmas Eve tea as a change. Three years down and we’ve kept that…

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Christmas is a wonderful time to put some time aside for crafting. Handmade touches around the home are always appreciated, whether it’s unique decorations for the tree or a wreath for the door to welcome your visitors, while handmade gifts are a thoughtful way of showing someone how much you care. Crafting at this time of year is also great for escaping the busyness of the season and relaxing for a few hours. You can enjoy seeing your work take shape, and appreciate an hour or two of calm before the next festive engagement! In this mini magazine we’ve put together over 20 projects spanning sewing, papercraft, knitting and more. You’ll find décor ideas including an advent calendar, clay decorations and a tree skirt, plus gift ideas from leather bracelets…

These dainty Christmas pudding earrings are the ideal accessory for your festive outfit! Easy to stitch, they’d also make a fabulous present for someone special. If you’re new to embroidery, head to www.gathered.how to find a guide to all the stitches you’ll need for the project. YOU WILL NEED… • 10x10cm black felt fabric • 1 skein of stranded cotton in brown, dark brown, green, red and white • 7 cm diameter embroidery hoop (optional) • Black glitter felt (for backing) • Adhesive water-soluble stabiliser • Strong fabric glue • Two earring hooks or studs • Basic embroidery kit • Designed by Louise McCarney, @louise.elizabeth.mccarney MAKING THE EARRINGS Step 1 Transfer both pudding templates (the left and the right) onto your stabiliser, at least 2cm apart. Carefully cut around both…

Christmas drinks need a little pizazz, and this mug hug is a delightful way of making them both look good and stay hot for longer. The cute cross stitch motif could also be used for cards, gift tags, coasters and more. YOU WILL NEED… • Stranded cotton as listed in the key • Size 24 tapestry needle • 15x15cm 14-count white aida • Red thick wool felt • Fabric glue • Button • Basic sewing kit Notes • For stitching help, search ‘how to cross stitch’ on www.gathered.how • Designed by Lucie Heaton, stitched by Lisa Shaw MAKING THE MUG HUG Step 1 Follow the chart on the left, using the thread key provided and checking how many strands are required. Step 2 Cut around the motif leaving a two…

Christmas isn’t Christmas without a decorative jumper, and these little guys come with their own mini hangers too! They’re a great way to use up fabric scraps and embellishments from your stash, and are sure to become favourite festives. YOU WILL NEED… • 30x10cm wool felt in green, grey and purple • 20cm of thin crafting or garden wire for each jumper • A selection of small sequins and size 12 gold, silver and pink seed beads • Stranded cotton in neon pink, white, navy blue, peppermint, olive, yellow, lilac and violet • Gold metallic thread • Fabric scraps for stuffing • Iron-on pencil • Basic embroidery kit Notes • Everything apart from the whipped backstitch and French knots are sewn using three strands. The backstitch and knots use six…

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SERVES 10 PREP 30 mins plus 30 mins chilling COOK 35 mins 1 quantity of gluten-free shortcrust pastry (see below)5 tbsp wholegrain mustard1 egg, beatenHandful of poppy seedsCranberry sauce, to serve FOR THE SAUSAGEMEAT 500g minced pork2 slices of white gluten-free bread, crumbed3 tsp sage, dried or fresh150ml apple sauceSalt and pepper SHORTCRUST PASTRY (Makes 560g)300g gluten-free plain flour1½ tsp xanthan gum145g very cold butter in cubes1 tsp salt2 large eggs, beaten 1 In a large mixing bowl, mix the flour and xanthan gum. Add the butter cubes to the bowl and, using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until it has a breadcrumb-like consistency. You can also use a food processor. 2 Stir in the salt. Add the beaten egg and, using a knife, carefully cut it…

SERVES 8-10 PREP 20 min COOK 2 hours 5kg organic turkey200ml vegetable oil FOR THE DRY SPICE MIX Seasonings (from Tropical Sun)200g All purpose200g Chicken seasoning50g Dry jerk seasoning20g Pimento (whole)10 cloves50g fennel seeds FOR THE MIREPOIX 2 onions, sliced3 stalks celery, sliced15 cloves garlic, sliced75g ginger, sliced5 carrots, sliced3 leeks (white part), sliced2 red peppers, sliced½ bunch each thyme, rosemary10 bay leaves500g Tropical Sun Jerk Seasoning Paste2 scotch bonnet, sliced 1 Coat the turkey in the veg oil and then the dry mix, liberally. Leave to marinate overnight. 2 The next day chop the onion, celery, ginger, garlic, carrots, leek whites, scotch bonnet and red pepper and set aside. 3 Coat the turkey in the seasoning paste (to your taste), add all the vegetables in and around the turkey…

SERVES 4 PREP 20 mins plus cooling time COOK 1 hour 40 mins 1 tbsp sunflower oil1 onion, diced2 carrots, peeled and sliced2 celery sticks, diced1 garlic clove, crushedGenerous glug of red vegan wine2 bay leaves1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, thyme1 x 400g can of green lentils, drained/rinsed1 x 400g can of chopped tomatoes200ml hot vegetable stock700g Maris Piper potatoes, peeled and chopped2 rounded tbsp vegan butter1 tbsp vegan double creamGenerous splash of veganWorcestershire sauceSalt and black pepper 1 Heat the oil in a large pan over a medium heat and add the onion. Cook for 2-3 mins, then add the carrots and celery. After 2-3 mins stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in a generous glug of red wine, along with the herbs. Reduce for…

SERVES 2 PREP 20 mins COOK 25 min 2 tsp vegetable oil1 small onion, peeled and chopped3 rashers smoked streaky bacon, chopped250g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and sliced550ml chicken or veg stockA few fresh sage leaves (or 1 tsp dried sage)Salt and freshly ground black pepper15g sage and onion stuffing mix15g butter2 tbsp double cream 1 Heat the oil in a saucepan and gently fry the onion for 5 mins without browning. Add half the bacon and cook, stirring until the bacon is lightly cooked but not brown. 2 Add the sprouts, stock, sage, salt and pepper. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 10 mins until the sprouts are tender. Leave to cool slightly then use a stick blender to whizz until smooth. 3 Mix…

Enjoy some time baking (and tasting) this season with these delicious desserts – from gingerbread bundt to speedy mug sponges SERVES 8-10 PREP 30 mins COOK 50 mins 250g unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing375g plain flour, plus extra for dusting1 tsp baking powder1 tsp bicarbonate of soda½ tsp salt4 tbsp ground ginger1 tbsp ground cinnamon½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg250g demerara sugar120g black treacle or molasses300ml whole milk3 large eggs120g pecans, roughly chopped FOR THE SAUCE 50g unsalted butter, cubed180g light muscovado sugar1 tbsp black treacle or molassesPinch of salt225ml double cream TO DECORATE Rosemary, thyme or pine sprigs, cranberriesCandles (optional) 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Butter and flour the inside of your 25cm bundt tin, or spray with non-stick baking spray. 2 Sift the flour, baking…

SERVES 2 PREP 15 mins COOK 1 min 60g chocolate hazelnut spread (plus 2 tbsp for serving)30g warm milk1 large egg white50g caster sugar40g plain flour (for gluten free flour, add a pinch of xanthan gum)¼ tsp baking powder½ tsp vanilla bean paste or vanilla extractChocolates and/or fresh berries, to decorate (optional) FOR THE FROSTING (OPTIONAL) 50g double cream70g cream cheese30g caster sugar20g chocolate hazelnut spread½ tsp vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract 1 In a small bowl, mix the chocolate hazelnut spread and warm milk together. Stir in the egg white and sugar, mixing until combined. Add the flour, baking powder and vanilla and mix until the batter is smooth. 2 Divide the batter between two mugs and microwave for 1 minute on high power. Keep an eye on…

Cheers! Give your best tumblers a polish and raise a glass to the season with an impressive festive cocktail (or two) SERVES 1 35ml Devon Distillery SloeD20ml Campari20ml sweet vermouthLuscombe Sicilian Lemonade 1 Stud a long slice of orange peel with cloves. Don’t be shy with the cloves. 2 Put the sloe gin liqueur, Campari and sweet vermouth in a mixing glass with ice and stir for a good 15 seconds. 3 Strain into a rocks glass with the studded orange and lots of ice, and top with Luscombe Sicilian Lemonade. 4 Give the drink one last little stir for luck and to get the cloves working. Open Fire and Christmas punch recipes courtesy of Luscombe Drinks, luscombe.co.uk…

SERVES 1 1 orange3 tbsp fresh cranberries100ml cranberry juice1 star anise3 cloves100g sugar1 tbsp curaçao1 tbsp cognacCubed iceChilled Champagne, to finish 1 Zest the orange using a peeler, then juice it, straining off any seeds or bits of pulp. 2 To make cranberry syrup, add the cranberries, orange and cranberry juices, anise, clove and peel to a small pot along with the sugar and warm gently. Stir to dissolve the sugar then remove from the heat. When cool, fish out the spices and peel but leave the cranberries in. 3 Put the cognac and curaçao in a mixing glass filled with ice. Add 1 tbsp of the cranberry syrup and stir. Strain into a flute, add one or two cranberries from the syrup and top with the Champagne.…

SERVES 1 FOR THE SUGARED CRANBERRIES 300g granulated sugar, divided454g whole fresh, cranberries FOR THE MERRY MARGARITA 1 sprig fresh rosemary, plus more for garnishing6 fresh or frozen cranberries1 tsp agave syrupIce, for the glass and cocktail shaker60 ml reposado tequila (blanco or añejo tequila also works)15 ml Cointreau (or other orange liqueur)30 ml cranberry juice15 ml fresh lime juice3 sugared cranberries, for garnishing 1 To make the sugared cranberries, first place a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet. In a medium pot, combine 100g of the sugar with 120ml of water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Stir in the cranberries until coated. 2 Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cranberries to the prepared wire rack. Let them dry for at least 1 hour. 3…

MAKES 1 45ml sloe gin22.5ml St-Germain elderflower liqueur15ml freshly squeezed lemon juice7.5ml honey syrup (see right)English sparkling wineIce, cubedLemon twist and edible flowers 1 Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. 2 Add all the ingredients except the sparkling wine. 3 Shake vigorously to combine and chill. 4 Strain into a Collins glass filled with ice. 5 Top with English sparkling wine and stir once to combine. 6 Garnish with a twist of lemon and edible flowers. FOR THE HONEY SYRUP 540ml water540ml runny honey 1 Heat the water and the honey together gently – it’s important you do not let it boil. 2 Once the honey and water are well combined, cover and simmer for 5 minutes. 3 Decant into a sealable, sterilised bottle or container. 4 Allow to cool…

Whether you’re that person who starts prepping for Christmas in the January sales, or you’re more of a ‘no festive music till December!’ type, we can all agree that a little planning goes a long way. At Simply Christmas, we’re all about a happy medium, and imagining what this year’s festivities could look like is a real pleasure, especially when you have time to make the magic happen. GO WITH THE FLOW We may have Christmas traditions that remain a constant each year, but within that there’s always a mix of different people, events, weather and trends. Courtney Rogers, Founder of CIJ Group and a gifting expert, keeps on top of these festive trends each year. We asked her what 2023 will bring. “As we reflect on the challenges of…

2015 With Charlotte’s birth in May, this was their first Christmas as a family of four. 2016 A candid shot snapped during their Canada Royal Tour in September of that year. 2017 A relatively formal studio portrait by Chris Jackson, one of the family’s trusted photographers. 2018 Taken at Anmer again, and Louis’s first Christmas card appearance. 2019 A fun prop this year – a vintage motorbike and sidecar snapped at Anmer Hall. 2020 (Above left) Posing in front of a woodpile, the then-Cambridge family went for a casual rustic look. And we fell for Charlotte’s Penelope Chilvers Tassel boots. Kate is a long-time fan of the brand. 2021 A sweet pic from their family holiday to Jordan. Kate spent the years 1984-1986 living there, when her father worked for…

Around the start of December, as the advent calendars are opening, another family tradition has begun – highlighter pen on the double festive edition of Radio Times. It’s a 20th-century tradition that shows no sign of dying out, despite the way we consume television now, with shows on demand across multiple devices. “I have the luxury of taking two issues home, leaving one out for the family and another to highlight the things I want to see,” confesses Shem Law, editor, who joined Radio Times in 2001 as art director. “I tend to seek out the older, nostalgic films, rather than the big new ones,” citing The Great Escape as a personal favourite. “I might not get round to seeing everything I’ve highlighted but really it’s all about the anticipation…

Whether you’re shopping for curious kids, green-fingered grandparents, treasured friends or your significant other, we have a bumper selection of unique, feel-good options they’ll love. Turn the page for extra-special, personalised gifts, then browse our pick of thrilling experiences and days out, beautifully designed additions for the home and garden, letterbox-friendly goodies for far-flung friends, tasty treats and toys galore. There are even more affordable options in our extra gift magazine! Altogether, that’s over 200 bright ideas that’ll give Santa a run for his money……

Claiming the final spot on the calendar, the month of December is traditionally considered a good time to take stock. But then the schedule fills up and the festivities are upon us. By the time the fireworks have faded and the last champagne cork pops, we’re well into January. Expectations of a brighter future are at an all-time high and the rush to start afresh is impossible to resist. Oh, the possibilities! Many of us think of January 1st as being a public holiday devoted to nursing hangovers, eating leftovers, weeping at bank balances and setting bold resolutions. After all, there’s a big push on that particular day to change yourself. Look slimmer, work harder, do better – all with the aim of creating a new you. When we reflect…

Make a baby’s first Christmas just that bit more special with this sweet Santa hat. Not only will it keep heads nice and toasty, but it will also make festive photos even more cute. And siblings don’t need to be left out of the fun – find our children’s Santa hat pattern at www.gathered.how. YOU WILL NEED… • Valley Yarns Northfield (70% merino wool, 20% alpaca, 10% silk, 50g/113m), 1 ball each of: Yarn A Natural (01) Yarn B Wine (06) • 5mm circular needle, 30cm long • 5mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) for top of hat • Stitch marker • Pom-pom maker Tension • Yarn used knits as aran to this tension: 18 sts and 27 rows to measure 10x10cm over st st using 5mm needles Measurements • To fit…

Wreaths have long been a traditional item for festive decoration, but unlike the usual foliage version, this one can be used year after year. YOU WILL NEED… • 12x115cm of Fabric A for the braid • 30x115cm of Fabric B for the braid and loop cover • 40x115cm of Fabric C for the braid and holly leaves • 16x16cm of Fabric D for the berries • Dark green stranded cotton • Toy stuffing • 60cm ribbon (optional) • Erasable fabric marker • Matching thread • Basic sewing kit Notes • Use a 5mm seam allowance • Download the templates from bit.ly/simplychristmas2023 • Finished size: 36x36cm • Designed by Jessica Entwistle, @jessjellybgood MAKING THE WREATH Step 1 From Fabric A cut one braid strip using the template. Step 2 From Fabric…

Decorating your tree shouldn’t stop at ornaments and tinsel – go all out this year and treat it to a fancy fashion accessory. This fun, mid-century inspired tree skirt is adorned with bright sparkly shapes, adding extra colour and showing off your gifts underneath to the max. Plus, it’ll also catch all those pesky falling needles if you’re a real-tree purist. YOU WILL NEED… • 200x90cm pale pink felt • Matching sewing thread • Pom-pom trim • Heat transfer vinyl (we used HappyFlex in Pastel Pink and Pastel Mint, HappyGlitter in Pale Yellow and Fluo Orange and HappyFlock in White, available from www.happyfabric.co.uk) • Greaseproof paper Notes • Download the templates from bit.ly/simplychristmas2023 • Designed by Hayley Chapman, www.happyfabric.co.uk MAKING THE TREE SKIRT Step 1 Using the tree skirt template,…

YOU WILL NEED • White and red card • Brown, red, white and green paper • Christmas papers • Circle and hole punches • Pinking shears • Craft knife or scissors • Star dies • Heart punch • Buttons and gems • Ribbon and metallic twine • Silver glitter • gel pen • Glue pen • Small metal bells • Designed by Julie Gibbs, jules-alwayswithaheart.blogspot.com MAKING THE WAISTCOAT GINGERBREAD MAN Step 1 Use the template to cut out two gingerbread men in white card. Cover the outside with brown paper and the inside with dotty paper. Use strong glue to attach both shapes at the top of the head. Step 2 Cut a waistcoat from patterned paper (we used a zigzag pattern) and stick it to the card front. Top…

SERVES 15 puddings PREP 5-10 minutes COOK 45 minutes 1 packet sage and onion stuffing mix1 Jazz apple, diced15 frozen Yorkshire puddings125g sliced roast turkeyDijon mustard, for brushing1 jar cranberry sauceA few sprigs of fresh thyme 1 In a heatproof bowl, combine the stuffing mix and diced apple. Prepare the stuffing according to the pack instructions, then spread evenly across a large baking dish and cook until extra crispy on the outside. Once cooked, set aside to cool slightly. 2 Place the Yorkshire puddings on a baking tray and heat according to the instructions. At the same time, warm through the roast turkey in the microwave or oven, and slice or pull apart into smaller pieces. 3 Once the Yorkshire puddings are fully heated, remove them from the oven and…

SERVES 3-4 PREP 30 mins COOK 30 mins 500g Brussels sprouts, halved2 tbsp olive oil2 tbsp Tropical Sun Coconut Treacle1½ tsp Tropical Sun Smoked Paprika100g hazelnuts, roughly chopped50g cup dried cranberries, soaked in hot water for 20-30 mins50g cup pomegranate seedsSalt and pepper to taste 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C. Add the sprouts to a baking tray and drizzle with olive oil, 1 tbsp of coconut treacle, salt and pepper. Toss to coat all the sprouts in the seasoning. 2 Roast for 15 mins, then add hazelnuts and roast for another 15 mins until they start to turn golden brown. 3 Remove the tray from the oven, drizzle on the remaining treacle and sprinkle with the cranberries, pomegranate seeds, and some black pepper. Serve and enjoy! This recipe is…

SERVES 4 PREP 20 mins CHILL 30 mins FOR THE AVOCADO CREAM 1 avocadoJuice and zest of ½ lemon1 tsp vanilla extract5g powdered sugar25g coconut oil, melted150g coconut yoghurt FOR THE BISCUIT LAYER 120g digestive biscuits50ml espresso, cold15g cacao nibs FOR DECORATION Cocoa powder 1 Combine all ingredients for the avocado cream together in a food processor until thoroughly mixed and it resembles a cream-like texture. Let it set in the fridge for 30 minutes. 2 To make the biscuit layer, crush the biscuits into 1cm pieces. Mix them well in a bowl with the espresso and cacao nibs. 3 Assemble the tiramisu in 4 small bowls or glasses by alternating layers of biscuit and cream. Finish by sprinkling the top with cacao powder, using a small sieve. Recipe courtesy…

SERVES up to 12 PREP 20 mins COOK 1 hour 10-15 mins 200g boiling water2 tbsp instant coffee160g unsalted butter, at room temperature and diced, plus extra for greasing3 medium eggs, at room temperature280g dark brown soft sugar⅛ tsp salt1 tsp vanilla bean paste100g whipped cream350g plain flour, plus extra for dusting3 tsp baking powder50g dark rum or sambuca liqueur Icing sugar, for dusting150g ground almonds 1 Set the shelf in the lower half of the oven so that the top of the bundt tin sits just below mid-point. Preheat it to 160°C/Gas mark 3. Grease the tin with butter and dust it with flour, tapping off the excess. 2 Pour the boiling water in a medium bowl, dissolve the coffee and add the butter so that it melts in…

SERVES 1 35ml Hattiers Resolute Navy Strength Rum15ml Chestnut Liqueur15ml freshly squeezed lime15ml runny honeyLuscombe Hot Ginger Beer 1 Combine all ingredients except the Luscombe Hot Ginger Beer in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. 2 After a good shake to dissolve the honey, strain into an ice-filled tumbler and top with ginger beer. 3 Garnish with a chunky lime wheel.…

SERVES 1 120ml cava to top30ml gin30ml Grand Marnier orange liqueur90ml freshly squeezed Valencia or blood orange juice (or a combination of both)Ice, cubedDehydrated orange slice 1 Fill a wine glass with cubed ice. 2 Add all the ingredients except the cava. 3 Stir gently to combine and chill. 4 Top with cava and stir gently once more. 5 Garnish with a dehydrated slice of orange. Both recipes on this page are taken from World Cocktail Atlas by Olly Smith (Quadrille, £22). TIP As an added bonus, if you have a cold or sore throat, this works really nicely heated up with a little extra hot water and the juice of half a lemon. A dash of whisky also helps! Add some cloves and a cinnamon stick to make a…

BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL We love the rich shades in this tinsel bauble with contemporary abstract design. £11.99, artwow.co BOLD ROPE There’s so much to love about this versatile rope sign in eye-scorching neon coral. £12, punkandpoodle.co.uk STARSTRUCK Give your room an inviting glow with this star lantern in rich Venus Orange. £16.95, paperstarlights.com BACK TO NATURE Bring the outdoors in with cute toadstool ornaments to enhance your tablescape. £19.99, giselagraham.co.uk ROSE TINTED This recycled glass bauble will look exquisite in the twinkle of your fairy lights. £7.95, paperhigh.com WOODLAND WARMTH Bring warm orange themes into your home with the John Lewis Christmas Cottage range. From £3.50, johnlewis.com FAB FOREST Handmade from birch, these Aztec-style trees are ideal for contemporary schemes. £12 (set of 3), rocketandfox.com BERRY FESTIVE This simple, rustic…

Kate’s carol service for all In 2021, the then Duchess of Cambridge launched the ‘Together at Christmas’ carol service at Westminster Abbey. Televised by ITV on Christmas Eve, the pre-recorded event has become part of the countdown to Christmas. Who can forget Kate wowing the world with her piano playing at the inaugural service! The idea for this inclusive royal carol service was spearheaded by the Princess of Wales, in collaboration with The Royal Foundation, and for the last two years running it has seen a large number of the royal family attending. The service recognises the selfless efforts of people, families and communities across the UK, many of whom are in the 2,000-strong congregation. Last year’s was especially poignant as it was dedicated to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth…

1. Avoid costumes – most pets don’t enjoy being dressed up (but that’s fine because they’re adorable just as they are!) 2. Stick to your pet’s usual routine to help them feel calm and relaxed. For instance, go for walkies at their usual time and stick to usual meal times. 3. It can be a good idea to provide your pet with a quiet space before the Christmas festivities begin and ahead of any guests arriving. If it all gets a bit merry for them, they can retreat to a small room or a den you’ve built that’s tucked out of the way with plenty of hiding places. 4. Make an ‘on the day’ plan for Christmas Day so that your day is as safe and stress free as possible…

Make this your greenest Christmas ever, with festive crafts inspired by nature in this limited edition from BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine • DIY wreath ideas• Festive pots made easy• 75 seasonal crafts• Simple step-by-step advice• Tree ornaments• And much more… ON SALE in selected supermarkets, WHSmith, local stores and online from 7 September (for a limited time only) BUY NOW online magsdirect.co.uk/gw-special-editions…

Advent calendars are a must to get in the mood for the Christmas season and this gorgeous 3D design is a fabulous budget option. All you need is a few sheets of white card and some Christmas themed papers. The little boxes are great for tucking sweet treats and chocolates into. YOU WILL NEED… • 12x12in patterned papers • 12x12in sheets of strong white card • Strong glue • Scissors • Decorative elements such as die-cut shapes, sequins and buttons • Designed by Vicky Sheridan, @blushcrafts MAKING THE ADVENT CALENDER Step 1 Cut a 11x11cm piece of white card. Score all four sides at 3cm. Make a flap at each corner by cutting up the fold to where the score lines intersect. Glue together to make a box. For the…

Christmas involves an extra level of pampering. Whether you want to get away from the hustle and bustle, prep for fancy nights out, or use them as pretty stocking fillers, these artisan-inspired soaps will create instant spa vibes. YOU WILL NEED… • 1kg Crystal Clear Melt and Pour Base • 1kg Crystal White Melt and Pour Base • Wooden lollipop stick • Isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol • Spray bottle • Three loaf moulds For the ombré soap • 15ml Christmas spice fragrance oil • 1kg Zenicolor Pro pack For the marbled soap • 15ml cranberry fragrance oil • EcoSparks Reflections pink mica-based glitter For the lavender soap • 15ml lavender essential oil • 20g dried lavender flowers • All items sourced from Soap Kitchen, www.thesoapkitchen.co.uk • Designed by Moira…

Bored with baubles? Putting a twist on tradition, these DIY decs will transform your tree in a fabulously bold way! YOU WILL NEED… • Polymer clay in red, brown, white, copper, light green, dark green and black (we used FIMO in Ruby Quartz, Cognac, Translucent White, Pearl Rose Gold, Leaf Green, Jade Green and Black) • Fine glitter in red and bronze • Three eye pins • Baking tray • Baking parchment • Bakers’ twine • Craft knife • • Designed by Emily Ashbourne, www.makeeshop.co.uk MAKING THE DECORATIONS Step 1 Pre-heat the oven to 110°C (230°F), or to the temperature advised by the manufacturer. Step 2 To make the pretzel, roll a sausage shape approximately 40cm long using the brown clay. Cut small chunks from the white clay to create…

Fabulous fine-dining gifts to give to food-loving friends and family this Christmas…

SERVES 4 PREP 45 mins COOK 45 mins FOR THE PARCELS 500g pumpkin or butternut squash, diced into 5cm cubesSmall red onion, finely choppedGarlic clove, peeled and gratedSprig of fresh rosemary410g can of green or puy lentilsA handful of black olives, pitted200g feta cheese, crumbled8 sheets pre-made filo pastry1 egg yolk1 tbsp truffle oilSea salt and pepper TRUFFLE ‘AVONAISE’ 1 avocado, pit and skin removed4 tbsp truffle oil2 tsp truffle tapenade 1 Preheat oven to 200°C/gas mark 6. Put the pumpkin cubes onto a lined baking tray and drizzle with 1 tbsp of truffle oil. Bake for 30 minutes until soft. 2 Combine all the other ingredients together (except for the pastry, egg and truffle oil). Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the roasted pumpkin and divide into four…

SERVES 4 PREP 10 mins COOK 45 minutes 2 tbsp vegetable oil100g vegan bacon rashers, diced½ Jazz apple, finely diced4 vegan sausages50g shredded vegan cheese60g grated vegan parmesan (save half for topping)1-2 tbsp unsweetened plant milk (optional)Salt and pepper300g Portabellini mushrooms 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/gas 4. If using frozen sausages, thaw them first, and if they are in casings, peel these off before using. 2 Heat the oil on a medium heat in a large frying pan, and once hot, cook the bacon pieces for 3-4 minutes until crispy. Add the diced apple and cook for another 4-5 minutes until softened. 3 Crumble in the sausages and add the shredded vegan cheese and half of the vegan parmesan. Stir everything together until the cheese has melted, adding 1-2…

SERVES 6 PREP 10 mins COOK 55 mins 3 rounded tbsp hazelnuts, chopped and blanched1 medium celeriac, peeled and chopped into chunks1 onion, quartered1 carrot, peeled and choppedSunflower oil800ml vegetable stock1 sprig of fresh rosemary200ml vegan double cream, plus extra to servePinch each of sea salt and black pepperFlat-leaf parsley, to serve 1 Add the hazelnuts to a dry pan and toast over a medium heat for 3-4 mins until fragrant and light golden. Set aside. 2 Preheat the oven to 180°C. 3 Arrange the celeriac, onion and carrot in a roasting tray. Drizzle with oil, then roast in the oven for 40-45 mins until tender. If the edges of the vegetables are becoming browned, place a sheet of kitchen foil loosely over the top to avoid further browning. 4…

SERVES 4-6 PREP 20 mins COOK 35 mins FOR THE FILLING 3 large white potatoes120g plain flour (cornflour if gluten free)1 tsp garlic powder1 tsp each dried rosemary, sage1 tsp smoked paprikaSalt and pepper to taste FOR THE ‘BLANKET’ 1 large carrot1 tbsp tamari1 tsp smoked paprika 1 Roughly chop the potatoes, add to boiling water with a pinch of salt and simmer for 15 mins. 2 Add the flour, herbs and seasoning to a large bowl and whisk together. 3 Once the potatoes have softened add to the flour mix, mash until a mouldable texture forms, shape into rough sausage shapes and place onto a greased baking tray. Place in a preheated oven (200ºC) with a dash of olive oil and bake for 20 mins. 4 Prepare the carrots…

SERVES 6-8 PREP 30 mins plus resting COOK 2 hours FOR THE STUFFING 6 small shallots, peeled2 large pears, peeled, cored and chopped75g bacon lardons or thick rashers, snipped1 pack fresh parsley2 tsp thyme leaves1 tsp rosemary75g butter225g breadcrumbs225g cooked chestnutsSalt and pepper1 egg, beaten FOR THE TURKEY 2kg turkey crown1 tbsp thyme leaves75g butter, softened1 lemon, grated zest and juice14 rashers unsmoked streaky bacon FOR THE GRAVY 3 tbsp plain flour3 tbsp port or red wine450ml turkey stock2 tbsp light soy sauce1 tbsp elderberry jelly 1 To make the stuffing, place the shallots, pears, bacon, parsley, thyme and rosemary in a food processor or blender and blitz briefly. 2 Melt the butter in a saucepan, add the shallot and pear mixture and cook for 4-5 minutes. Add the breadcrumbs…

SERVES 8 PREP 30 mins COOK 40 mins 2 sheets of puff pastry75g cup butter75g icing sugar1 tsp vanilla extract2 tsp rum or brandy, or 1 tsp almond extract1 large egg, plus 1 yolk15g double cream¼ tsp salt75g ground almonds15g custard powder1 tsp milk 1 Using a sharp knife and a 23cm cake tin as a template, cut a disc from each pastry sheet. Transfer discs to a baking tray, cover and place in the fridge to chill. Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C fan. 2 In a bowl, cream together the butter, icing sugar, vanilla and salt – plus alcohol or flavour – until light and fluffy. Add an egg and mix well. Stir in cream, if using. Add ground almonds and custard powder and mix to a paste. 3…

MAKES 9 PREP 20 mins (plus resting time of 30 mins) COOK 24–26 mins 220g plain flour90g unsalted butter, cold60g dark soft brown sugar60g walnut pieces½ tsp baking powder¾ tsp ground cinnamon1 medium egg, cold1 tsp vanilla bean paste120g apricot jamIcing sugar, for dusting 1 Put the flour, butter, sugar, walnuts, baking powder and cinnamon in the bowl of a food processor and blitz for about 1 minute, until the mixture has the texture of fine sand. Add the egg and vanilla and blitz again to form a dough. Turn it out onto a clean and dry worktop, pat it down with the palm of your hand then, using a straight-edge scraper, lift one side and fold it over. Repeat the patting and folding a few times until the mixture…

SERVES 12 PREP 30 mins COOK 40 mins 250g plain flour75g caster sugar90g vanilla sugar (caster sugar stored with vanilla pods)1 pinch salt3 medium eggs125g unsalted butter250ml whole milk20g cornflour1kg apples (eg. Granny Smith)150g marzipan 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line and grease a 25cm springform cake tin. 2 For the pastry, sift the flour and salt. Add caster sugar, 10g vanilla sugar, 1 egg and the butter. Mix with your hands until smooth. Roll out onto a floured surface slightly larger than the tin and transfer the dough to the tin, leaving about a 4cm rim. 3 Peel, core and slice the apples, to about 5mm thick. Spread over the base. 4 For the filling, mix the cornflour, the rest of the vanilla sugar and some of the…

SERVES 1 30ml vodka60ml Baileys Irish Cream liqueur30ml ginger syrup (from a jar of stem ginger)115ml single cream or nut milk of your choice1 cup crushed ice Ginger biscuits, crushed 1 To decorate the rim of the glass, pour a little ginger syrup into a saucer and place the crushed ginger biscuits in a separate saucer. Dip the rim of a Martini glass in the syrup, then dip it into the crushed ginger biscuits. 2 Combine all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker and shake for a few seconds, then strain into your glass. This recipe is taken from The Book of Gingerbread by Helena Garcia (Quadrille, £16.99).…

SERVES 4-6 400ml can coconut milk500ml dairy-free milk of your choice, but preferably oat or almond75g maple syrup, or more to taste1 tsp vanilla extract½ tsp ground cinnamon¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg, plus extra to dustingPinch of ground cardamomPinch of salt2 tbsps bourbon (optional)2 tbsps white rum (optional)Ice, to serve (optional) 1 Blitz together all the ingredients in a blender until thick and foamy. 2 Chill in the refrigerator, then pour over ice in glasses. 3 Alternatively, gently heat in a saucepan until warm, adding a little more maple syrup if you prefer it sweeter, then pour into mugs. 4 Grate a little nutmeg over the top of the drinks before serving. TIP For added convenience, this drink can be made the day before and the alcohol stirred through just…