This creamy pasta recipe is the tastiest way to eat your leftover pumpkin
Make the most of pumpkins this autumn with our top 10 ways to use up leftovers after Halloween. Cook a creamy pumpkin pasta, a warming bowl of soup or bake a showstopping pie, the choice is yours!
You've carved a fun design and displayed it with pride, now, what to do with your Halloween pumpkin? Each year the Good Food team views Halloween as a great opportunity to turn leftovers into something delicious, from spectacular soups to comforting puds. This year, however, there is one recipe in particular that is grabbing our attention: our irresistible creamy pumpkin pasta. When puréed and combined with mascarpone and parmesan, the pumpkin flesh transforms into a silky, delicious pasta sauce, perfect for an autumnal dinner which also feels like a treat. Keep reading to uncover nine more dishes from our recipe archive, each celebrating the very best of this iconic gourd, including trending pumpkin soup and pumpkin pie ideas. Make more fabulous seasonal bakes and filling autumnal meals from our pumpkin recipe collection and leftover pumpkin collection. We also have our round-up of pumpkin carving ideas, pumpkin purée recipes and pumpkin recipes to make with kids, or go the extra mile with a fun family outing to one of the UK's best pumpkin patches. 1. Creamy pumpkin pasta Arguably the tastiest way to eat your pumpkin leftovers, our recipe blitzes pumpkin into a smooth purée and combines with mascarpone and parmesan to make a deliciously silky pasta sauce. It's so easy to rustle up, with rigatoni making the perfect match for the creamy sauce. When you're ready to serve, make sure to season and scatter with a blanket of parmesan for a dish that tastes like autumn in a bowl. 2. Creamy pumpkin & lentil soup Use soft pumpkin flesh to make a creamy pumpkin & lentil soup, topped with crunchy roasted pumpkin seeds. This wholesome seasonal bowlful makes a great family-friendly dinner, served with hunks of crusty bread or buttery garlic bread. Blitz your ingredients in a blender with crème fraîche for a silky smooth soup that packs plenty of flavour. 3. Classic pumpkin pie Fill your kitchen with mouth-watering seasonal aromas and treat yourself to a slice of classic pumpkin pie with pecan & maple cream. Use up your lantern carvings and create something delicious in the process. Enjoy a substantial slab with a dollop of cream for a dreamy dessert or afternoon pick-me-up. 4. Slow-cooker pumpkin soup Looking for ways to put your slow-cooker to good use? Put in a little effort the night before and you can have a velvety pumpkin soup ready as a starter for a special autumnal dinner with guests. This vegan recipe serves six generously, plus it's low in fat and calories. If your pumpkin or squash isn’t quite big enough to make up the required weight, you can supplement it with chopped carrots. 5. Pumpkin pasta alla vodka Indulge in something savoury with this vegetarain pumpkin pasta alla vodka, topped with sage leaves for a rustic finish. It's easy to make, plus it's a brilliant way of making the most of this majestic gourd. Vodka and chilli flakes provide a lovely deep flavour, too. 6. Squidgy pumpkin & ginger loaf A slice of our squidgy pumpkin & ginger loaf, with a warming cup of tea, is the perfect antidote to chilly evenings. This dense loaf, laced with black treacle, golden syrup and aromatic spices tastes even better having been left for a couple of days for the flavours to mature. Try a thick slice, smeared with butter. 7. Pumpkin hummus Turn your carved out pumpkin into a spooky centrepiece with our creamy pumpkin hummus. The nutty tahini, roasted garlic and earthy pumpkin make for a moreish dip – everyone will be going back for seconds of this simple, healthy snack. Serve it in the pumpkin shell for an eye-catching display. 8. Pumpkin pancakes Believe it or not, you can turn chunks of pumpkin into a mouth-watering brunch treat. Our pumpkin pancakes with salted pecan butterscotch are a seriously impressive stack. Soft, fluffy pancakes; salty, sweet sauce; crunchy pecans and a dollop of vanilla ice cream make for a truly decadent start to the day. Or, try our healthy pumpkin pancakes with fresh fruit and crème fraîche. 9. Pumpkin curry with chickpeas No one could turn down a bowl of our pumpkin curry with chickpeas and fluffy naan. Soft chunks of pumpkin make a great base for this veggie main, it also makes a delicious side dish paired with roast meat or fish. It tastes even better the next day after the flavours have had a change to intensify. 10. Pumpkin pie s'mores Merge two USA classics into one bite-sized treat. Our easy pumpkin pie s'mores with melty marshmallow filling and warming ginger biscuits are a gooey delight. Add a sprinkling of cinnamon for a hint of sweetness and spice. Enjoyed these recipes? Try our other autumnal dishes... Top 10 autumn recipes 10 autumn drinks you must try 10 new ways with pumpkin Our best ever vegetarian autumn recipes What's your favourite way to use up leftover pumpkin? Leave a comment below...
Make a homemade version of your favourite takeaway with our top fakeaway recipes – perfect for a family night in or for kicking off the weekend in style.
We've got sharing food for every mood, taste and cuisine craving. The Friday night takeaway signals the start of the weekend. Good Food has the perfect family favourite recipes for when you're ready for some serious comfort food with minimal fuss. For a burst of flavour, with both spicy and mild dishes, follow our Indian fakeaway recipes collection. Another typical tasty takeaway is Chinese and we have the perfect Chinese fakeaway recipes at your fingerprints, with classic sweet and sour flavours, salt and pepper chicken and a cracking chow mein. Other homemade possibilities include crispy and succulent fried chicken, a delicious range of chicken curry recipes and vegan takeaway recipes, which includes meat-and dairy-free versions of our favourites from international cuisine. Discover more homemade takeaway recipes. Our top 10 fakeaway recipes 1. Easy butter chicken This healthy version of a creamy chicken curry can be marinated the night before to get ahead of the prep work. Serve up this wonder-curry with fluffy naan breads, basmati rice, mango chutney or pickles and wedges of lime. Why not serve up our chunky aubergine pickle on the side and even top up your meal with our simple mango chutney naan breads. 2. Mozzarella stuffed crust pizza No Friday would be complete without a seriously cheesy pizza. Go the extra mile and create this mozzarella masterpiece at home, complete with oozy, chunky filled crust. 3. Classic Fish and chips You can't beat a classic. Try making your own fried fish at home with this . Pair with chunky, golden brown oven-baked chips or change it up with sweet potato fries. 4. Turkish kebabs with flatbreads and tomato chilli sauce Superbly spiced chicken kebabs are full of flavour and are a great build-you-own sharing meal. Wrap the kebabs in toasted cumin flatbreads, with a dollop of cooling yogurt and crunchy pickles. Pair with this fresh tomato chutney. 5. Singapore noodles with prawns Why not go for a low-fat, low-calorie stir-fry takeaway? It'll be on the table in 20 minutes and is packed with spices and flavour. Sprinkle over coriander and watch it fly off the plates. Try our healthier version of Singapore noodles with prawns. Expand your spread by adding pineapple, beef & ginger stir-fry or tofu, greens & cashew stir-fry. 6. Chicken katsu curry Got a craving for creamy curry sauce and golden brown crispy chicken? One sniff of our easy homemade katsu curry is sure to whet your appetite. Serve with crunchy veg ribbons, fluffy rice and lashings of our aromatic, creamy coconut sauce. Get more colourful curry inspiration with our favourite katsu curry recipes. 7. Classic Swedish meatballs Missing your favourite comfort food dish from homeware shopping pilgrimages? Make our classic Swedish meatballs for a filling family supper. Pair with cranberry jelly, greens and creamy mashed potato or a fresh potato salad. Try even more meaty classics or twists like brilliant burgers with our favourite Swedish meatball recipes. 8. The big double cheeseburger & secret sauce 9. Seitan & black bean stir-fry 10. Soy & chilli chicken with peppers & peanuts Like these? You might also enjoy... Chinese chicken with pancakes Mozzarella stuffed crust pizza Wrap-your-own spring rolls What's your favourite Friday night takeaway? Let us know in the comments below...
Your turn to cook the big Christmas meal? Let us take away the stress with this modern, time-saving celebration menu featuring our simplest festive recipes.
Looking for a quick and easy Christmas dinner menu? Cookery writer Sophie Godwin has created the ultimate simplified menu for a stress-free day. With a range of time-saving techniques and showstopping flavour twists, this is the only festive menu you'll ever need. Embrace the art of the shortcut! In order to speed up your preparations, we've used a small turkey (no more than 4kg), which is cooked rapidly at a high temperature (200C/180C fan/gas 6), like a chicken. As it comes out of the oven hotter than usual, It needs longer to rest so the meat can relax and stay succulent. If meat isn't your modus operandi, take a look at our veggie and vegan Christmas menus. We've also got a gluten-free menu, as well as a healthy Christmas menu if you don't want to go too overboard this festive season. For time-saving tips, see our last-minute Christmas dinner menu or our quick Christmas menu. Whether you're feeding a crowd, six people or just the two this year, we've got you covered. Next, discover more easy Christmas dinners. Your timeplan to eat at 2pm View and print our at-a-glance infographic time plan. 11am Take your turkey out of the fridge. 11.30am Heat the oven. Prepare the rosemary butter and rub underneath the turkey skin. 12pm Put the turkey in the oven to roast. 12.15pm Boil the potatoes and root vegetables. Make the harissa & orange marmalade glaze. Chop the ingredients for the stuffing sprouts. 1pm Baste the turkey, pour in the white wine and nestle cabbage wedges around the bird. Return to the oven. 1.10pm Prepare the separate ingredients for the mackerel starter (or your goat's cheese tartines). 1.25pm Smash the roasties and put them in the oven. 1.30pm Check the turkey – take out to rest if the internal temperature has reached 75C. If not done, carry on cooking for a further 5-10 mins. Return the cabbage to the oven to finish cooking. 1.35pm Toss the roasted roots in the harissa glaze, then put in the oven. 1.40pm Make the gravy, cook the sprouts and keep warm. 2pm Sit down to eat the starter, with everything for your lunch ready to go. The dessert takes just 10 minutes to assemble, so you can do it once you've enjoyed the main course. Quick & easy Christmas dinner menu Christmas turkey There's no switching temperatures with this bird, just some serious roasting, flavoured with rosemary and garlic. The turkey is cooked high and fast like a chicken, giving it extra crispy skin. As it comes out of the oven hotter than usual, it needs longer to rest so the meat can relax and stay succulent. Smashed roasties Roasties really don't get easier than these smashed potatoes with just two ingredients. Boiling them for longer then smashing them makes for more surface area, meaning extra crispy bits for everyone! Harissa & marmalade roasted roots These easy roasted root veggies are cooked with aromatic harissa and a big dollop of sweet marmalade that leads to delicious, caramelised beauties. All they require is boiling for a couple of minutes, roasting and coating. Stuffing sprouts Stuffing meets sprouts in this super simple side dish. Anyone who's not totally sold on brilliant Brussels is sure to be won over by these golden toasted veggies. Peppered mackerel & pink pickled onion salad This mackerel starter with its quick pickled onion is impressive, and it takes little time as it's part of making your dressing. This can be assembled while your turkey's in the oven. For an alternative to fish, try our quick and easy goat's cheese, pear & walnut tartines. Black forest Christmas fool And finally, the easiest-ever chocolatey dessert. This indulgent Black Forest treat can be whipped up in ten minutes flat and requires no forward prepping. If you fancy a non-alcoholic version, feel free to substitute a can of cherries in syrup. Want to top off your menu with some simple prosecco cocktails? Get in the party spirit with these easy seasonal drinks. For more inspiration visit our Christmas dinner page, or browse our other Christmas menus... Complete Christmas menu: Classic Complete Christmas menu: Vegetarian Vegan Christmas menu Gluten-free Christmas menu Complete Christmas menu: Quick 2 hour Christmas menu Complete Christmas menu: For a crowd Complete Christmas menu: For two All our Christmas menus What are your easiest-ever Christmas shortcuts? Let us know in the comments below...
Enjoy a stress-free Christmas Day with our festive menu plan. Your guests will marvel at a glazed turkey crown, trimmings and tempting dessert.
Juggling the kids' excitement at opening presents with trying to cook Christmas dinner is no easy task, so make it super simple with our no-fuss menu. Achieving the perfect turkey roast with all the trimmings doesn't have to mean sweating over a stove for hours when you know all the festive hacks. The other advantage of this approach is that you'll have more time to spend with your loved ones. Our menu serves around four people, so it's ideal for the average family. Get more speedy festive inspiration with our quick Christmas recipes, 10 quick Christmas breakfasts, quick Christmas canapé ideas and quick Christmas gift recipes for last-minute gifting. 2-hour Christmas dinner menu Easy turkey crown You cannot fail to get a golden-brown finish with this easy turkey crown that cooks in just 1 hour 30 minutes (after only 10 minutes' prep). We've used the traditional glaze you would get on a ham to give the turkey this beautiful colour and of course, plenty of festive flavour. Baste it a few times during cooking for a stunning Christmas centrepiece. With the time you save on the main event, you may want to check out our 10 quick Christmas starters. All-the-trimmings traybake While your turkey is in the oven, spend 15 minutes prepping your veggies for a festive traybake. By roasting your sprouts with the potatoes, pigs in blankets and root veg, you'll also save time on washing-up after dinner. We use spoonfuls of sticky caramelised onion chutney along with traditional seasonings to create a subtly spiced, sweet flavour. Stir-fried festive cabbage With the veg and the turkey both cooking in the oven, you're free to assemble our 20-minute stir-fried red cabbage. With cranberry sauce, red wine and orange, this dish is bursting with seasonal flavours that are as vivid as the colour they bring to the table. This side dish also makes a fresh and zingy, healthy addition to an otherwise rich, no-stress roast. Black Forest Christmas fool For the final festive flourish, whip up our indulgent Black Forest fools, which you can make ahead before putting the turkey in the oven, or even just after eating it. With a grand total of 10 minutes prep time, it's up to you. As well as being quick, these creamy puds use storecupboard ingredients – and if you want to make a non-alcoholic version, use a can of cherries in syrup instead of kirsch. You may also want to browse other quick desserts. Want a plan that takes all the stress out of Christmas dinner? Try our easiest ever or next level menu plans, complete with timeplan, pre-loaded shopping list (to print out or use for online shopping) and all the recipes you'll need for the big day. What's your ultimate cooking shortcut? Leave a comment below, then check out more Christmas menus... Vegetarian Christmas menu Vegan Christmas menu Gluten-free Christmas menu Quick Christmas menu Classic Christmas menu Christmas menu for a crowd Christmas menu for two Easiest ever Christmas menu Next level Christmas menu Budget Christmas menu
Stir up one of our top celebratory cocktails to ring in New Year's Eve with a bang. Try a festive version of a classic negroni or the ever-popular espresso martini and raise a glass to the new year.
Pop the prosecco, crack out the cocktail shaker and dust off that bottle of whisky you've been saving. Choose your favourites from our top dazzling New Year's Eve drinks and celebrate in style with cocktails and mocktails to suit every taste. Pair your drinks with the best nibbles from our canapé selection and stunning main courses from our New Year's dinner ideas. Finish off with one of our delectable dessert recipes to round out the evening and get even more inspiration with our complete collection of New Year's Eve cocktail recipes. 1. Singapore sling Inject tropical flavours into your New Year's Eve cocktail menu with a classic Singapore sling. Mix festive cherry brandy with bitters, herbal liqueur and fruit juice to make this eye-catching, gin-based tipple. Make the most of any bottles going spare with our best ever gin cocktail recipes. 2. Winter whiskey sour Give the confirmed classic a festive makeover with our winter whiskey sour. This simple recipe is a must-try for bourbon fans. Sweet and sour notes are perfectly balanced with a splash of fresh citrus and dash of sugar syrup. Add some edible gold glitter for extra sparkle. Need help choosing your bourbon base? Read our review of the 10 best bourbon whiskies – taste tested. 3. Festive negroni If a negroni is your cocktail of choice, try this spice-laced version. Our festive negroni is made with cinnamon, star anise and bay leaves for a new twist on the Italian classic. After tasting one, it'll be hard to go back to the original. 4. Peppermint mojito There's nothing wrong with keeping the festive vibes going into the new year. Combine the classic mojito with Christmassy peppermint in this candy-cane-inspired peppermint mojito cocktail. To prep for a party you could make some mint syrup in advance. Don't forget the colourful candy canes to garnish. 5. Pomegranate martini mocktail Make the most of this seasonal fruit in our pomegranate martini mocktail – a blend of pomegranate juice, non-alcoholic gin and orange juice. It's a good alcohol-free option for any guests not on the booze this New Year's Eve. Discover more of our mocktail ideas that'll please everyone. 6. Mulled orange wine Put a stylish spin on the classic winter cocktail with mulled orange wine. Make a big batch with seasonal fruit and warming whole spices for a crowd-pleasing drink that will go down a treat. 7. Black Russian Our coffee-laced black Russian is the perfect after-dinner pick-me-up. It can be served short or as a long drink topped up with cola. And because there are no syrups in the recipe you won't need to prepare anything in advance. Try another caffeinated cocktail in the form of our upcycled white Russian, made with cream, vanilla, rum and coffee grounds. Kick your evening up a notch with even more coffee cocktail recipes. 8. Grapefruit spritz Cut through all that Christmas feasting with a sharp grapefruit spritz, a drink bursting with citrus flavours. Garnish with a twist of grapefruit zest to bring a touch of summer to your celebrations. Raise a glass to our favourite easy cocktail recipes for stress-free entertaining. 9. Espresso martini Always a favourite, our espresso martini is easy to make and will help keep you going until midnight. The recipe calls for freshly brewed espresso, a dash of coffee liqueur and a simple sugar syrup. Make sure you really give this a good go in the cocktail shaker to create a beautifully foamy top. For a version with a bit less alcohol, try our espresso shrub martini or make an espresso eggnog martini for a twist. 10. Spice 75 Elevate a standard bottle of bubbles with our sophisticated spice 75. It's a taste of the festive season in a glass. A little sweetness, spice and some rum make this the perfect winter warmer, all wrapped up in an elegant package. Want more brilliant uses for your bubbly? Check out champagne cocktails you can make in minutes. Enjoyed these cocktails? Check out our other drinks recipes Two-ingredient cocktails Fruity cocktail recipes The best cocktail shakers A guide to classic cocktails Easy prosecco cocktails What's your favourite festive drink? Leave a comment below...
A festively flavoured cheesecake makes for a crowdpleasing Christmas dessert – here are some of our favourite recipes
That irresistible combination of creamy sweetness and buttery biscuit base makes a slice of cheesecake hard to resist. We've picked the best festive cheesecake recipes for you and your guests to enjoy this Christmas. For more inspiration, discover our best Christmas pudding recipes, top Christmas brownie recipes, favourite Christmas cake recipes, Christmas trifle recipes and our best Christmas desserts – plus even more Christmas cheesecake recipes. 10 festive cheesecakes to make ahead 1. Mince pie cheesecake Make the most of leftover mince pies by blitzing them into the ginger biscuit base of this cheesecake. Fold mincemeat into the creamy filling for even more festive flavour. Try more twists on mince pies. 2. Gingerbread cheesecake This lightly spiced cheesecake is topped with homemade gingerbread people for a family-friendly festive dessert. It's a no-bake winner that takes just 25 minutes to prep. Discover more no-bake cheesecake recipes. 3. Espresso martini cheesecake Keep the grown-ups happy during the festive season with this coffee liqueur-spiked dessert. Soured cream adds a sophisticated touch to offset the sweetness of the cheesecake. Discover more twists on an espresso martini. 4. Chocolate orange baked cheesecake Chocolate orange is another great festive flavour combination, and this cheesecake pulls out all the stops with a creamy baked filling topped with candied orange slices. Try more chocolate orange recipes. 5. Christmas pudding cheesecake At Good Food we love it when a mash-up comes together, particularly when pudding is involved. This Christmas pudding cheesecake mixes Christmas pudding with a splash of stout, brandy and the all-important cream cheese. Dollop onto a ginger biscuit base for a dessert that's sure to leave everyone smiling. 6. Millionaire's cheesecake A stunning way to round off your Christmas meal, this chocolate and caramel cheesecake never fails to go down a treat. Star sprinkles or chocolate stars make it a real celebration. Try more chocolate cheesecake recipes to make for the chocolate lovers in your life. 7. Brandy butter caramel pears with spiced basque-style cheesecake Make an indulgent Christmas cheesecake with poached pears baked into a basque-inspired cheesecake, drizzled with a brandy butter caramel. It's an easy dessert to wow guests. 8. Baked vegan cheesecake with raspberries & clementine You'd never guess this baked cheesecake is made entirely without butter, eggs or milk. Soaked cashews and coconut cream make the rich filling, while the base makes clever use of oats and coconut oil. Now our most indulgent vegan Christmas desserts. 9. Spiced apple cheesecake If you need a dessert you can make ahead of time and you're a fan of Christmas spices, try our spiced apple cheesecake. Ricotta keeps the filling light and creamy while the cinnamon and ginger apple topping will satisfy a sweet tooth. Serve with a luscious brandy syrup sauce for ultimate luxury. 10. Iced chestnut ripple Chocolate and chestnut are a dreamy, Christmassy combination fully exploited in this iced chestnut ripple cheesecake. Drizzle with a rum-laced chestnut syrup for the final delicious flourish and serve with a warming glass of rum, if you like. Discover our best chestnut recipes. Want more inspiration? Here are easy cheesecake toppings to jazz up a vanilla base... View Green Video on the source website Like these recipes? Try other sweet treats... Video: easiest ever chocolate cheesecake Video: how to make cheesecake Video: how to make a biscuit base What's your favourite festive cheesecake flavour? Leave a comment below...
Bake all kinds of delicious flapjacks with our easy recipes. Get creative by adding dried fruit, nuts, chocolate or even a savoury cheese twist
Anyone can turn a bowl of humble oats into something magical just with butter and a drizzle of golden syrup, but by adding a few other choice ingredients, you can take flapjacks to the next level. They're perfect for bake sales, coffee mornings or simply an afternoon pick-me-up. Our sensational traybakes are so versatile the possibilities are endless. Whether you fancy layers of caramel and chocolate, spicy ginger or a traditional take, we have the best recipes. For even more oaty ideas, check out our collection of flapjack recipes. Want a helpful step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect flapjacks? Check out our video demonstrating two terrific recipes. View Green Video on the source website 20 easy flapjack recipes 1. Golden syrup flapjacks You're just four ingredients and 30 minutes away from spectacular golden syrup flapjacks. This classic recipe is so adaptable, you can customise it with chocolate drops, desiccated coconut, sultanas or almost anything you like. Beautifully buttery, we guarantee they'll disappear in seconds. Discover more irresistibly sweet and sticky bakes with our golden syrup recipes. 2. Sticky plum flapjack bars This recipe is so simple, kids can get involved with the weighing, mixing and measuring. Our sticky plum flapjack bars with mixed spice are an autumnal treat. Use up a glut of plump fruit and indulge. Serve with cream, custard, ice cream or pack one into your lunchbox for a midday pick-me-up. Discover more plum recipes for inspiration on ways to use this soft, sweet and juicy fruit. 3. Chocolate & caramel flapjacks Try a different take on millionaire's shortbread with our chocolate & caramel flapjacks. These easy sticky desserts are perfect bake sale material, or make a few to box up for a handmade gift. They're best made a day in advance to give the caramel time to set overnight. Whether you prefer your caramel plain or salted, these caramel recipes are sure to please everyone. 4. Apple flapjacks These flapjacks give a fruity twist to the classic oat bake, combining fresh and dried apple. They’re perfect in autumn when apples are at their best, but just as delicious any time of year. Treat yourself to one of our comforting apple desserts. 5. Raspberry honey flapjacks Using just five ingredients, these raspberry honey flapjacks are super easy to whip up for a mid-morning snack. Frozen raspberries work better than fresh here as they maintain their shape when baking. These summer berries are perfect for blending into smoothies, baking into cakes and much more. Check out our raspberry recipes for inspiration. 6. Blackberry & hazelnut crumble flapjack These fruit-filled flapjacks work beautifully with any soft, seasonal berries – think sweet strawberries and cherries in the height of summer, or juicy blackberries as autumn approaches. Use foraged or shop-bought blackberries to make cheesecakes, jams and more with our blackberry recipes. 7. Healthy flapjacks Looking to reduce your sugar intake? Bake a batch of healthy flapjacks using dates and walnuts for a feel-good treat. These vegan snacks make the most of mashed bananas and dates as natural sweeteners. Discover more healthy savoury snack recipes as well as energy-boosting snack recipes. 8. Chocolate coconut flapjacks Give flapjacks a twist with coconut. These bars look as good as they taste, with a marbled chocolate top. Check out more desiccated coconut recipes for inspiration, from cakes and bakes to curries and chicken. 9. Apricot, honey & pistachio flapjacks Spend just five minutes in the kitchen mixing up a batch of our apricot, honey & pistachio flapjacks. These sophisticated squares use just six ingredients, including crunchy nuts and chewy dried apricots for extra texture. Resist diving into your dessert until it's fully cooled to make sure your slices stay whole. Try experimenting with different fruit and nut combinations to find your favourite. Add a burst of fruity sweetness with more of our dried apricot recipes. 10. Seeded cheese & chive flapjacks Flapjacks don’t have to be just for those with a sweet tooth. Our cheese and chive version makes a savoury snack that’s great for a quick on-the-go boost. In a rush but don’t want to skip breakfast? Discover more of our on-the-go breakfast ideas. 11. Ginger flapjacks Our ginger flapjacks are a little something special. Delicately flavoured with coconut and topped with a punchy layer of ginger, these are the ideal accompaniment to your afternoon cuppa. We use both ground and crystallised ginger to get a suitably spicy icing that balances the sweetness of the flapjack. 12. Mincemeat flapjacks Craving festive flavours but tired of the usual mince pies? These mincemeat flapjacks pack in all the Christmas nostalgia without the fuss of pastry – and they use just seven simple ingredients. 13. Coffee & walnut flapjacks Coffee isn't just for cake. Try our decadent coffee & walnut flapjacks for a grown-up treat that's sure to please. Give this classic flavour combo a twist with a dense, sticky flapjack base and buttery icing. A shot of espresso in the oat mix adds an extra level of flavour. Top each square with a whole walnut for a professional finish. Looking for easy bakes to impress at your next coffee morning? Check out our best coffee morning recipes. 14. White chocolate and raspberry flapjacks Treat someone to a batch of these white chocolate & raspberry flapjacks. The flapjacks are studded with tart freeze-dried raspberries and creamy white chocolate chips, then topped with fresh berries and a thick layer of white chocolate. 15. Chocolate orange flapjacks Use rich dark chocolate and light orange to make these fab flapjacks. Adding both the zest and the juice ensures a stronger, zingy flavour and a better consistency. Our chocolate orange flapjacks are a great weekend bake to enjoy with coffee at leisure. These chewy beauties are a surefire crowd-pleaser. Celebrate this heavenly combination with more chocolate orange recipes. 16. Lemon drizzle flapjacks If you're partial to a slice of lemon drizzle cake, you'll love our lemon drizzle flapjacks. This simple flapjack is the dessert mash-up of our dreams and you can make it in just two steps. The sharp lemon curd icing pairs perfectly with the sweet oaty base. Ideal for slicing and sharing with friends at an afternoon tea. Watch our video and learn how to make our next level lemon drizzle flapjacks. 17. Vegan flapjacks Flapjacks are often made with butter, but using dairy-free spread in this vegan flapjacks recipe means everyone can enjoy them. We've added chopped nuts and dried fruit, but use the vegan flapjack base as a starting point for vegan versions of any of these flapjack recipes, adding your own mix-ins. 18. Peanut butter & jam flapjacks Classic British flapjacks get an all-American makeover with this peanut butter & jam version. Get creative and use any flavour of jam you like, and swirl into the nutty base. 19. Carrot cake fridge flapjacks Perfect for a picnic, these carrot cake flapjacks have plenty going on. They're studded with nuts, seeds, cranberries and apricots, while the softened dates and honey add chewiness. A drizzle of soft cheese icing to finish gives that classic carrot cake feel. 20. Feelgood flapjacks Our feelgood flapjacks use honey for sweetness and mashed banana and apple to bind everything together, so you can cut down on fat and refined sugar. These fruity bakes are packed full of texture and flavour. Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a grating of orange zest for some extra spice and citrus flavour. They'll be demolished in minutes. Like these flapjacks? See more snacks and treats... Our ultimate snack collection The best lemon dessert recipes 6 fudge recipes to make at home What are your favourite flapjack recipes? Leave a comment below...
Top 10 vegetarian family comfort food recipes
We've devised hearty, meat-free family meals, from cheesy traybakes to vegetarian versions of classics like toad-in-the-hole.
It can be difficult finding simple, filling meals the whole family will love, especially when you're pressed for time. If you're also trying to cut down on meat and need inspiration for cooking veggie dinners, these revamped classics are the answer to your midweek prayers. Go for a hearty shepherd's pie filled with lentils, topped with creamy mash, or why not try something a little different like our simple halloumi traybake. Take a look at our vegetarian kids recipe collection for more vibrant, veg-packed dishes. Discover our full range of summer comfort food recipes, storecupboard comfort food recipes and freezable comfort food recipes. You can also check out some of our healthy comfort food recipes and vegan comfort food recipes. 10 vegetarian family comfort food recipes 1. Healthier veggie carbonara Keep the core of this cheesy pasta feast the same, then pile on the veggies for a colourful, Italian-style plateful. Our meat-free carbonara can be on the table in 30 minutes and uses egg yolks – not cream – to create a silky sauce that's rich with savoury flavour. If you have time, try serving it with our super simple cheese & garlic pull-apart loaf. Browse our family pasta recipes for more mouthwatering mac 'n' cheese ideas and sumptuous spaghetti dishes. 2. Halloumi traybake Our cheesy halloumi traybake might look decadent but it packs in a whopping four of your five-a-day. Serve up a colourful selection of peppers, onion, broccoli, tomatoes and chickpeas. Start off by putting baby potatoes in the oven, then add your veg and lay the halloumi on top before finishing under the grill for a winning dinner. Discover even more halloumi-stuffed wraps, sandwiches and salads with our collection of halloumi recipes . 3. Veggie toad-in-the-hole Your cooking repertoire wouldn't be complete without knowing how to make perfect Yorkshire puddings, an essential part of our veggie toad-in-the-hole. Simply substitute the usual pork sausages for a high-quality vegetarian version and serve with a selection of classic British veg for the ultimate Sunday dinner. You can also partner this recipe with our crunchy polenta roasties, caramelised honey carrots and a rich veggie gravy which uses a spoonul of Marmite for a savoury hit. Take a look at our top tips for making Yorkies. 4. Lentil & mushroom shepherd’s pie with parsnip mash It's a fact universally acknowledged that everything is better when topped with mashed potato – and this vegetarian shepherd's pie is no exception. Give your mash a seasonal twist by adding parsnips for a hint of natural sweetness. This recipe serves 4-6, making it perfect for family dinners, but it’s also freezer-friendly. When you’re short on time, pop it in the oven from frozen – it’ll take an extra 20-30 minutes to cook, giving you a hearty meal with minimal effort. Check out our lentil recipes for more ideas with this protein-packed pulse. 5. Loaded baked potatoes with slaw Combine classic baked tatties, creamy yogurt and lashings of strong cheddar and what do you get? Good Food's loaded baked potatoes. These warming wonders feel super indulgent and will also help you on the way to getting your five-a-day. Serve them with a sprinkling of fresh chives and a healthy helping of crunchy carrot and cabbage slaw. Liven up your spuds with more of our baked potato recipes. 6. One-pot paneer curry pie Imagine a warming veggie curry waiting for you at the end of a long day. But what could make it even better? Turning it into a pie, of course! This twist on a classic makhani-style paneer curry is topped with a buttery, flaky puff pastry lid, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the richly spiced sauce. Discover more flavourful dishes in our collection of vegetarian curry recipes. 7. Next level ratatouille Seasonal vegetables are all slow-cooked together in a family-friendly dish that truly celebrates summer and serves up to six. Serve this next level ratatouille with bread of your choice, or for a more substantial family dinner, as a side with barbecued or roasted meat or fish. 8. Gnocchi & tomato bake You can never go wrong with an oozing and cheesy gnocchi bake on the table, so why not give this comforting veggie main, packed with rich Italian flavours, a go for dinner tonight? Our gnocchi & tomato bake makes a filling family supper and is ready in just half an hour. Find more comforting gnocchi recipes. 9. Tomato & mascarpone risotto There's little more comforting than a rich and creamy risotto. This flavoursome cherry tomato & mascarpone risotto uses just a handful of ingredients but the flavour really intensifies through the cooking process. Follow our instructions for achieving the perfect texture, so that the risotto has a thick, creamy consistency yet maintains some bite. Check out more ideas in our collection of vegetarian risotto recipes. 10. Air fryer mac & cheese Turn your air fryer into a comfort food hero with this classic mac and cheese. Cooking it in the air fryer gives it a gorgeous crisp topping, and you can personalise it with your favourite veg additions – peas or roasted squash work brilliantly for a touch of sweetness to balance the rich cheese. Discover even more air fryer recipes to get the most out of this kitchen hero. Enjoyed these recipes? Try more of our family meals... Vegetarian family classics Healthy vegetarian comfort food recipes Quick family comfort food recipes The best vegan family meals Quick and budget family meals Healthy vegan pasta dishes Vegan bowl recipes Quick vegetarian recipes What's your favourite meat-free comfort food? Leave a comment below...
Learn to carve the perfect pumpkin this Halloween with our spooky printable templates, from bats and witches to a deadly Dalek or an elaborate haunted house.
Our printable Halloween templates make pumpkin carving as easy as one, two, BOO! Get to grips with a craggy haunted house or set yourself a real challenge with our DIY Dalek. Whether you're a fan of the traditional spooky symbols like bats and broomsticks or want to try something a bit different, these pumpkin carving stencils are great fun for all ages. Our Halloween recipes feature even more haunting Halloween treats and tipples. Read our top tips on carving a pumpkin, get inspired by our easy pumpkin carving ideas, and set the mood for the scariest night of the year. If you want to go the extra mile, why not make a fun family outing to pick your pumpkin? Read our article on the best pumpkin patches in the UK to find the right pumpkin for you. And, don’t let your pumpkin go to waste after the big day – check out our top pumpkin recipes to make the most of your leftovers. Want to get stuck in? Try your hand at three cool designs with our pumpkin carving tutorial video: View Green Video on the source website Print your favourite pumpkin template Printable pumpkin carving templates 1. Bat Flapping his way onto a pumpkin near you, this easy bat design is a confirmed classic. The simple designs are often the most effective, and this is definitely true for our brilliant bat. The stylized wings and eyes will really stand out once night sets in. Download our bat template 2. Witch It wouldn't be Halloween without a witch or two flying around the house, with a bat thrown in for good measure. If you're a stickler for tradition, it doesn't get more classic than this witchy figure, complete with broom and pointy hat. Download our witch template 3. Haunted house Picture this: an imposing house perched on a craggy rock with skeletal trees on either side. Sound like the perfect setting for a scary film? Carve out your own scene-setting pumpkin with our easy-to-use template. Download our haunted house template 4. Dalek Exterminate! For Doctor Who fans, this daring Dalek design is slightly more effort but is sure to impress everyone on your street. Take your time to work around the tricky parts – trust us, the final result is well worth it. Sci-fi aficionados will be head over heels for this marvellous mutant. Download our Dalek template 5. Classic scary face Our scary face is another super simple design that's sure to stand out. This basic template is one to tackle if you're not overly confident in your carving skills, but still want a classic pumpkin. The glowing eyes and sinister eyebrows scream "Halloween is here!" Download our scary face template Enjoyed these Halloween pumpkin designs? Try our other spooky seasonal recipes and activities... 9 things you can carve for Halloween that aren't pumpkins How to make a Halloween feast How to make Halloween cupcakes Which is your favourite design? Leave a comment below...
Discover our favourite autumn cocktail recipes and mix up some delicious seasonal drinks. Try a blackberry fizz, a spiced apple snap or a brilliant bramble.
Sumptuous sloe gin, delicately spiced apple brandies, warming mulled cocktails and hedgerow-inspired flavours are the stars of our autumnal cocktail menu. These seasonal stunners feature classic fruity combinations you'll want to sip all evening. For more inspiration, explore our autumn drinks you must try and autumn drinks recipes. Construct your ultimate entertaining menu and pair your cool cocktails with worthy plates from our autumn recipes collection. Make the most of these short-lived seasonal flavours and put together an impressive spread, complete with drinks to match. Top 10 best ever autumn cocktails 1. Sloe gin cocktail Take some inspiration from the hedgerow and try our simple sloe gin cocktail. The botanical gin and juniper syrup makes for a sweet and sharp mix of flavours that's simply irresistible. Learn how to make sloe gin at home with our simple recipe that makes the most of an autumnal glut of fruit. A bottle of this rich liqueur will never go to waste, and it makes a delicious homemade gift. 2. Brandy Alexander Warm up on chilly evenings with this simple three-ingredient cocktail. Rich and spiced from the brandy and double cream, it’s a little treat that feels truly comforting. Finish with a sprinkle of homemade spiced sugar – nutmeg and cinnamon fill the air with all the scents of autumn as you sip. Put your bottle to good use and try our other brandy cocktail recipes, from a classic brandy sour, to a traditional sidecar or a Singapore sling. 3. Mulled cider Need something to warm your hands and sip slowly on chilly evenings? Shun the traditional mulled wine and give this fruity mulled cider a go. A splash of apple brandy gives our mulled brew sweet depth of flavour to balance the dry cider. Cloves, cinnamon and allspice berries add plenty of aromatic spice. If you're looking for more mulled drinks ideas, look no further than our ultimate collection. 4. Hazelnut cream boozy hot chocolate Hazelnuts are in season in the UK around September/October, and luckily for everyone they go deliciously well with chocolate. This hazelnut cream hot chocolate spiked with hazelnut liqueur and topped with fluffy whipped cream, is an instant autumn favourite. This recipe is a mug of pure indulgence, perfect for warming up from the inside out. 5. Blackberry gin fizz Our marvellously mellow blackberry gin fizz is the perfect thirst-quencher for the autumn months. This easy recipe also works well with sloe gin or blackcurrant gin. Top with a sprig of thyme for a light whiff of herbal flavour. Try making your own batch of blackberry gin at home with our simple steeping recipe. Bottle a taste of these beautiful berries and use the leftover fruit in a boozy trifle with layers of sponge and cream. Create more fruity cocktail recipes and refreshing serves for every occasion with our thoroughly tested tipples. 6. Whiskey sour Crack out the cocktail shaker and whip up a punchy classic in the form of our whiskey sour. If you're feeling daring, try our flavour variations, like ginger, nutty amaretto or even a New York sour with a red wine float. Check out our other whisky cocktail recipes for more delicious drinks featuring this super spirit. 7. Spiced apple snaps fizz Use a herbal aquavit or botanical gin in this spiced apple snaps fizz. Don't have a cocktail shaker? Use a jam jar to shake up your mixture and combine your ingredients. A pinch of cinnamon brings out the sweetness in the apple juice. Garnish with apple slices dusted with cinnamon for an eye-catching display. 8. Bramble Featured on many a cocktail menu all year round, the bramble is a staple of every gin cocktail fan's repertoire. It couldn't be simpler to make, but the eye-catching shot of blackberry liqueur that bleeds through the drink makes it ideal for entertaining. Try our three twists for simple and delicious variations that will make you look like a cocktail maestro. Try your hand at even more gin cocktail recipes to impress your friends and family. 9. Boozy dark delight Serve up this satisfying boozy dark delight for an after-dinner treat. This cocktail has a heady mixture of warming whisky, smooth stout and a dash of zesty orange liqueur. Stout and chocolate are a match made in heaven – the roasted malt flavours of the beer pair particularly well with sweet chocolate. Explore even more inventive beer cocktail recipes, from the humble shandy to a mojito twist with our top collection. 10. Sloe gin fizz Celebrate the flavours of autumn with this refreshing sloe gin fizz. Made with just four ingredients – sloe gin, lemon juice, sugar syrup and sparkling water – it’s finished in a tall glass over ice, with lemon slices and a blackberry garnish. If you have the time, why not make your own sloe gin? Sloes are in season from October to December, so this is a perfect way to make the most of any glut. Enjoyed these drinks? Try our other seasonal recipes... Top autumn vegan recipes Autumn cake recipes Autumn drinks you must try Autumn dessert recipes What's your favourite autumnal tipple? Leave a comment below...