HB’s top 5 tips

TO PRESENT HOME-COOKED CHRISTMAS DISHES LIKE A CULINARY PRO

EMBRACE THE PRETTY

Shop for pretty, edible flowers to place on top of your dessert creations. They’re the crowning glory! Our favourite of the moment is ‘Salade de Fleur’ from Essential Ingredient.

WHEN IN DOUBT, DUST IT!

Imperfections in cakes and other desserts can be easily hidden with the help of a good shaker or icing sieve. Depending on your dish, choose icing sugar or cocoa powder. Try using a stencil or doily to dust a pattern on top.

ADD A GOLDEN TOUCH

Edible gold leaf – available from cake decorating stores – is the ultimate in foodie bling. Using a soft paintbrush, take a leaf and brush it onto a cooled surface. Turn to page 214 for inspiration.

MAKE GLAZE EASILY

Everybody loves a home-baked Christmas ham, but you needn’t make everything from scratch. Try melting down a top-quality fruit jam or chutney for a quick and tasty glaze.

GET CREATIVE

Invest in a good piping bag set. To create an impressive effect, try topping a pie with piped mash, or finishing off a dessert with piped meringue, icing or cream.