Since I cannot be the only person in this position, and since I would never suggest anybody attempt a visit to 'the shops' at this late stage, here's a quick selection of ideas should you be needing them. I am doing the biscotti this afternoon, so don't think I'm all mouth and no trousers about this.
My criteria is simple: multiple gifts from one kitchen session, easy-to-grab-from-the-local-shops ingredients and less than an hour to make from start to finish. Hope you are soothed!
This year's biscotti are flavoured with orange and contain hazelnuts and almonds - use whatever nuts you fancy in this recipe, and don't bother with the egg wash. I mean, do you really have time?
Make some jam. Grab a bag of frozen berries from the freezer of the supermarket and some jam sugar, and you're good to go.
Macarons are so much easier than you think. Don't be scared. Not for the faint-hearted, but cheap and impressive.
This gingerbread is the best recipe on my blog for Christmas gift giving. Help yourself. Treacle can be a pain to find - use golden syrup, or at a push, marmalade. You'll just have orange gingerbread instead. Who wouldn't like that?
If you have the power tools (a blender will do), make some peanut butter. I would love a jar of this!
Am I crazy to suggest this ice-cream? Flavoured with spices and brandy, it would be a great Christmas gift. Just package it up in paper cups with lids. Brilliant. No ice-cream maker required.
Have a wonderful Christmas if I don't get to post again beforehand!
Mr. P, I'm in the mood to make biscotti. And I'm with you - who has time for an egg wash? I never bother, even when I have oodles of time on my hands.
ReplyDeleteI've never heard of Lamingtons before. But I've looked it up on the Internet and found out that they're Australian sponge cake cubes. Your pictures look quite delicious and I'm going to try them next time. Thank you for the inspiration.
ReplyDeleteA happy and healthy new year 2013 for you and your family.