The 10 best vegetarian Christmas party foods
Throw a vegetarian Christmas party with a buffet packed full of meat-free canapés, colourful salads, festive finger food and indulgent sweet treats
Whether you’re looking to cater for a crowd of veggie friends and family, or just want to add a few meat-free options at your Christmas party, we have a whole host of vegetarian festive recipes to inspire your buffet table. For even more ideas, see our vegetarian Christmas canapé recipes, or if you’re cooking meat-free on the big day itself we have plenty of top tips for a vegetarian Christmas. Discover more vegetarian buffet recipes and vegan party recipes for when you're throwing a plant-based bash. Veggie Christmas party food ideas 1. Butternut, sage & hazelnut quiche Filled with sweet squash and delicately spiced with nutmeg, this butternut, sage & hazelnut quiche feels positively festive. Once baked, you can serve this at room temperature, making it a great option for casual entertaining. 2. Luxury hummus Whip up a batch of our luxury hummus and serve a generous bowlful alongside your choice of crudités – heritage carrots, radishes and pitta bread all work wonders to brighten up the table. This silky smooth recipe is strewn with pomegranate seeds to keep it feeling Christmassy. Find more hummus recipes for alternatives. 3. Cheese & onion rolls True to the spirit of Christmas, there should always be an abundance of pastry-based snacks to make the seasonal offerings feel suitably decadent. These vegetarian cheese and onion rolls, decorated with nigella seeds, really hit the spot. 4. Pull-apart garlic rolls with baked camembert This cheesy centrepiece is sure to be a hit among veggie and non-veggies alike. Dunk your garlic and herby squidgy rolls into the oozing baked camembert centre. Discover more tempting baked camembert recipes. 5. Twisty cheese straws A firm favourite with party guests of all ages, we’re sure a plate of these twisty cheese straws won’t last long! You’ll need to use a vegetarian pesto (made without parmesan) to keep this recipe veggie-friendly, or you can try our recipe for quick cheese straws for an easy alternative. 6. IPA & red leicester dip with pretzel croutons This indulgent dip is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Made with creamy red leicester cheese, hoppy IPA beer and with crunchy pretzel croutons for dunking, what's not to love? 7. Root vegetable tatin with candied nuts & blue cheese Make a root vegetable tatin with candied nuts & blue cheese for the perfect vegetarian centrepiece on Boxing Day. We especially love the added touch of using caramelised walnuts in this recipe – their crunchy sweetness is so satisfying when paired with the mature cheese on top. 8. Truffled mushroom pâté With a real sense of indulgence – yet blissfully easy to prepare – this truffled mushroom pâté needs nothing more than a selection of mini crispbreads to be enjoyed. If you’re entertaining more formally, simply spread this vegetarian pâté onto toast squares for a quick and simple canapé. 9. Cheesy spinach & artichoke dip Spinach and artichokes combine with three types of cheese to make a melting delight for your guests, ready for dipping into with your dunkers of choice – we love using crusty bread, tortilla chips and assorted crudités. 10. Nut roast rolls A tasty, meat-free alternative to traditional sausage rolls, these veggie-friendly bites are filled with lentils, mushrooms and nuts for plenty of flavour, and uses ready-rolled puff pastry to make it even easier. Looking for more meat-free Christmas recipes? Try these: Top things to serve a vegetarian this Christmas Our ultimate vegetarian Christmas recipes Complete Christmas menu: vegetarian Vegetarian Christmas canapés Vegetarian Christmas menu What vegetarian food will you be serving at your party? Leave a comment below…
Once the kids have carved their pumpkins, encourage them to make the most of this seasonal squash by cooking up one of these fun and thrifty recipes.
Pumpkins are a wonderfully versatile ingredient, so there’s no need for the flesh to go to waste at Halloween. After you’ve learnt how to carve a pumpkin with the kids (take a look at our pumpkin carving stencils and templates for spooky inspiration), get inspired with these family-friendly recipes – from satisfying suppers to fun baking ideas. For younger kids, adults should always handle any sharp equipment when carving pumpkins or preparing them in our recipes. If you’re keen to go completely waste-free in your kitchen, you can try our best pumpkin seed recipes, too. Next, discover our Halloween kids' recipes for spooky and autumnal-inspired recipes that the kids can take the lead on. Then check out our easy Halloween recipes, most popular Halloween recipes and autumn crafts for kids. You could even go the extra mile and make a fun family outing to pick your pumpkin with the best pumpkin patches in the UK. 10 family pumpkin recipes 1. Pumpkin hummus If you’re celebrating the season in style, use a pumpkin to decorate your dinner table and fill it with this delicious pumpkin hummus. The flesh is simply scooped out and roasted in the oven, then the kids can help tip it all into a food processor – along with lemon juice, tahini paste and chickpeas – and whizz it all together. 2. Pumpkin spice scones You’ll need to roast the pumpkin flesh for this recipe, too, but once you’ve done that, kids will have great fun making a batch of these seasonal scones. Get small hands to help with the mixing, weighing and stamping out circles using a cutter. After baking, everyone can enjoy devouring these pumpkin spice scones while they are still warm from the oven. 3. Halloween pumpkin cake Similar to carrot cake, this traybake will go down a storm with family members of all ages. Our top-rated Halloween pumpkin cake combines grated squash with subtle spices and orange flavours, and is topped with a delicious cream cheese frosting. 4. Pumpkin & bacon soup As the nights draw in, a comforting bowl of pumpkin and bacon soup is sure to make a welcome option for a family meal. This recipe uses chunks of pumpkin simmered for 40 minutes – if you’re using smaller pieces of flesh from the centre of a hollowed-out pumpkin, just lower the cooking time accordingly until the squash is soft. We also have a classic pumpkin soup recipe for a veggie alternative. 5. Pumpkin pie s’mores Whip up a batch of your own pumpkin purée – small pieces of squash simply steamed and mashed – then you’re all set to make this delicious campfire classic. Kids will love squidging together the ginger nut biscuits with gooey marshmallow inside! These easy pumpkin pie s’mores can also be made with canned purée, if you prefer – try them on Bonfire Night and beyond. 6. Creamy pumpkin pasta Creamy pumpkin pasta is a great way to get kids cooking and enjoying their veg. With a silky sauce of pumpkin, mascarpone and parmesan, it’s simple, tasty and perfect to make together. 7. Pumpkin bread Great for lunchboxes or an evening treat, our delicious pumpkin & ginger tea bread is a breeze to make. The only bit you might need to help the kids with is grating the pumpkin – the squash can be slippery, so watch those fingers! Wrapped tightly, this loaf will keep well in the cake tin, but if you want to refresh the texture, gently toast a slice before slathering with butter. 8. Spiced pumpkin Halloween cake Although this spooky cake looks rather impressive, the decoration is simply made by melting white chocolate and topping the cake with orange buttercream. The pumpkin-spiced sponges can be frozen ahead of time (un-iced) too. 9. Pumpkin muffins Our five star-rated recipe is a winner for a reason. They're ready made in 3o minutes flat so can satisfy pumpkin-spice cravings in record time! 10. Pumpkin cinnamon rolls Bake a lightly spiced treat for chilly, autumnal mornings with these pumpkin cinnamon rolls. They take a bit of time, but you'll reap the rewards with the delicious result. Discover more twists on cinnamon buns. What do you like to do with your leftover pumpkin? Tell us in the comments below… Discover more pumpkin recipes: 10 new ways with pumpkin Pumpkin purée recipe ideas How to roast pumpkin seeds Our best ever pumpkin soup recipes Getting ready for Halloween? We have you covered: Ultimate Halloween collection How to throw a kids’ Halloween party Pumpkin carving templates How to carve a pumpkin How to make Halloween cupcakes
Avoid the after-school slump with these nourishing snacks for kids – these simple recipes will help to restore energy levels between meals.
When the kids get home from school, it can be tricky to find healthy snacks that will keep them satisfied until dinnertime. These budget-friendly ideas are all quick and easy to prepare – either make a batch of snacks ahead of time and keep them ready for hungry moments, or assemble them quick as a flash after school. Don’t worry – the little ones will soon have plenty of energy again. If you’re buying pre-packaged snacks, the NHS advice is to opt for 100 calorie snacks, and enjoy no more than two a day max. Kids can, of course, eat their fill of fruit and vegetables between meals, and for homemade recipes it’s not necessary to count calories – just keep an eye on your child’s overall salt, sugar and fat intake and try to balance their diet throughout the day. Here, we've picked recipes that can be enjoyed as part of a normal, balanced diet. Find guides on everything from the best wooden play food and kids baking set ideas, to amazing space projects for kids in our family & kids section. For some extra inspiration, discover our baking recipe collection for kids. Looking for recipe inspiration during the school year? See our top quick after-school suppers. After-school snacks for kids View Green Video on the source website 1. Instant frozen berry yogurt Three ingredients and 2 mins are all you need to whip up this low-fat, low-calorie frozen yogurt treat, ideal for eating after exercise or a long day of learning at school. 2. Hummus snack packs Save the liquid from a can of chickpeas to make a creamy hummus. Serve it with simple veg for a healthy snack that contributes to your little one's five-a-day. 3. Chickpea fritters Make a batch of these chickpea fritters for your little ones. Full of healthy goodness, they're also freezable, so are ideal for making ahead. 4. Rice cake cress faces Kids will love helping to make these no-cook vegan snacks. Load up rice cakes with hummus (or your nut butter of choice) then have fun transforming them into faces with cress hair, cucumber mouths, and olive and tomato eyes. 5. Mini soft pretzels with cheese dip Little hands will love dunking these homemade pretzels into the melted cheese dip. They're freezable too, so whip up a batch to have on hand when hunger strikes. Now try more pretzel recipes. 6. Vegan nuggets These vegan nuggets contain no nasties – just wholesome ingredients including cauliflower, cannellini beans, carrots and a seasoned breadcrumb coating. Discover more healthy vegan snack ideas. 7. Cinnamon & apricot trail mix Bring a batch of this trail mix to the afternoon school run for hungry kids who can't wait until they get home for a snack. It's packed with dried apricots, walnut halves and mixed seeds. 8. No-bake flapjacks This no-bake vegan snack is perfect for filling hungry tummies. Mix it up with the nut butter of your choosing and a mix of chocolate, dried fruit and nuts. 9. Turkey & avocado toast Fresh fruit and vegetables are often the best option for kids after school, but sometimes they need something more substantial. Turkey & avocado toast makes a delicious energy-boosting snack that’s quick to prepare. Although not as cheap to buy, you might like to try smoked salmon, cooked chicken or ham as alternative toppings. 10. Pepper & walnut hummus with veg dippers Vegetable sticks to the rescue! Satisfyingly crunchy and boasting a tasty homemade dip, little ones will love this pepper & walnut hummus with veg dippers. You can blitz this all-in-one method for hummus ahead of time, so there’s always some waiting in the fridge when they get home. 11. Rainbow fruit skewers Get the kids involved with making these simple rainbow fruit skewers – they’ll have great fun assembling them in the right colour order. Use whatever fruit you have handy, and if they get bored of rainbows, you can get creative and make fruit faces or animals instead. 12. Almond, raisin & popcorn trail mix Make a batch of almond, raisin & popcorn trail mix ahead of time for another go-to snack – it keeps beautifully in an airtight container as part of a kids’ lunchbox, too. Remember to always chop the nuts for children under five years old as they can be a choking hazard, and if you're sending this snack to school, you may need to check the school's policy on nuts. 13. Apple crunch Simple but effective, spreading protein-rich peanut butter onto a halved apple is a cheap and easy snack that kids will love. If you can, choose a shop-bought spread with no added salt or sugar – alternatively, have a bash at whizzing up your own homemade peanut butter or try our almond butter recipe. You can easily swap the apple for sliced banana, strawberries, celery or cucumber, depending on your child’s preference. 14. Healthier flapjacks When only a sweet snack will do, these healthier flapjacks are sure to hit the spot. We’ve swapped out some of the higher fat you’ll find in shop-bought versions, although the dried fruit makes them high in sugar, so enjoy them as a treat once in a while. Half a portion – packed full of oats, seeds and fruit – should be enough to fill little tummies. 15. Turkey & pepper pittas Bridge the gap between school and supper with a mini pitta bread packed with veg and protein. These turkey & pepper pittas are a good place to start, or our recipe for toaster pitta pockets will satisfy cheese fiends of all ages. 16. Fruit rice paper rolls with coulis dip These no-cook fruit rice paper rolls will be an instant hit with little ones, and they’re served with a mixed berry coulis for dunking. Ready in under 15 minutes, the tropical fruit provides a nutritious burst of energy. 17. Wrap-your-own spring rolls If you have a bit more time at the weekend, get the little ones involved and wrap your own spring rolls – you can reheat these treats later in the week as you need them. Mix and match the vegetables inside so that kids can eat the ones they like the most. 18. Apricot oat bars Bake a batch of these moreish apricot oat bars ready for when the kids are craving something sweet. Salted butter balances the sweet apricot jam, so they’re a treat without being too sugary. 19. Healthy banana bread Give your kids all the joy of an afternoon cake without worrying about a sugar crash with our low-fat, healthy banana bread. It’s also freezable, so you can always have one waiting in the wings as a surprise. 20. Chocolate chia pudding Make a tasty, healthy chocolate pudding in just five minutes. It's low-calorie and vegan, too, and the chia seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Looking for more? Try these these guides on healthy eating for kids: Top sugar swaps for your family Snacks that are under 100 calories Top 5 healthy snacks for kids What do your kids like to eat after school? We’d love to hear your ideas in the comments below.
20 of the best indoor activities for kids
Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained indoors? Try these fun and easy activities including homemade playdough, rock painting, pom-pom making and more
With just a few kitchen cupboard ingredients and basic supplies, you can keep little ones busy for hours at home with these activities for kids. Perfect for when they’re home from school or if there’s a rainy day ahead, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for indoor projects that are cheap and cheerful – you’ll often save money on the shop-bought version while encouraging plenty of imaginative play along the way. Most of these activities take less than 30 minutes before the kids can get stuck in, using items you’ll already find around the house. They can be enjoyably messy, though, so be sure to cover your kitchen table in newspaper before you start! For more inspiration, see our collection of the best dishes to cook with kids, plus find more gadgets and useful products in our reviews section, including the best foodie gifts for children, kids' baking sets and kids cooking set ideas. 1. Make your own playdough Once you’ve discovered how easy it is to make your own playdough at home, you’ll never look back! Using just plain flour, table salt, vegetable oil and water – plus whatever food colouring you can conjure up from the back of the cupboard – this easy-to-follow playdough recipe is one of our favourite indoor activities. Kids can use biscuit cutters to press out shapes or make their own models. 2. Create a bath bomb Want the kids to get excited about bath time? Teach them how to make a bath bomb and they’ll love watching their creations fizz in the water. The reaction between bicarbonate of soda and citric acid is what makes the magic happen – you might need to buy the ingredients in advance for this one, but we’ve tracked down where to buy citric acid. Experiment with different colours, essential oils and shapes to make your own unique versions. 3. Get creative with papier-mâché Papier-mâché, or paper mache, is cheap and easy to make, with the added bonus of allowing kids to get very messy indeed. You only need three ingredients – newspaper, plain flour and water – to get started. You can use paper mache to cover all sorts of objects, then once it’s dry you can paint it, or decorate with glitter, feathers or beads. Learn how to make paper mache and get creative! 4. Learn how to make salt dough Model-making is a great indoor activity, and kids will love displaying their finished creations on the mantlepiece. Learn how to make salt dough for an afternoon of fun! The ingredients are cheap and easy to find – your little ones just need a little patience as it takes three hours for the models to bake in the oven on the lowest setting. Once they are cool and sturdy, you can paint them however you wish. 5. Make potato stamps Toddlers especially will love using these simple stamps to make cards and pictures. Adults are needed to make potato stamps first and prepare a few pots of paint, then little ones can get creative and make their own designs. No potatoes? There’s always hand and finger painting, too! 6. Blow some bubbles If you’ve run out of store-bought bubble mixture or need a quick entertainment idea for the kids, it’s easy to make your own bubbles from washing-up liquid and water. You can also have plenty of fun finding different items around the house that could make bubbles – we made our own bubble wands from paperclips, straws and even biscuit cutters. Remember to cover up any soft furnishings first if you’re doing this one indoors. 7. Play with slime Gloopy slime is really popular with kids of all ages, so here’s an all-natural way to make your own at home. Some ready-made versions have chemicals in them, so we teach you how to make slime without borax. That means it’s safe for children to put in their mouths – although we’d advise against making a meal of it! 8. Learn how to cook As you’d expect, one of our favourite ways to spend time indoors is to head to the kitchen! Our kids’ baking collection has lots of easy biscuits, cakes, traybakes and muffins that children will love making and eating – for savoury ideas, we also have our popular kid’s cooking collection. Short on the essentials? Our kids’ baking recipes without flour are full of storecupboard alternatives. 9. Try rock painting All you need is a rock from the garden and some paints to make your own cute ladybird – or get creative and make up your own design! Easy rock painting for kids is a wonderfully quick, cheap and simple afternoon activity. 10. Make a puppet theatre Transform an old cereal box into a puppet theatre, then present your very own show! Kids will love learning how to make a puppet theatre, which comes with free characters for you to download, print and colour in at home. 11. Plant an indoor herb garden Follow our expert advice for beginners on how to make an indoor herb garden – soon, your children will be fascinated by their growing plants and excited to use them in their cooking! If you want to turn it into a longer and more creative activity, learn how to make a bee flower pot. 12. Make your own musical instruments Elastic band guitars, paper straw panpipes, tin can drums, wooden spoon maracas and lolly stick harmonicas – create your very own family band with these clever homemade instruments. All our instruments for kids have easy-to-follow instructions and only use budget-friendly, everyday items. 13. Play with fake snow You can make a batch of simple fake snow whatever the weather outside – young children will love squidging and pressing it into shapes. This indoor sensory activity can be made less festive with a few drops of food colouring. Add yellow to make it into sand, then kids can build their own sandcastles! 14. Make a pom-pom pet Homemade pom-poms are such an easy craft, and the simple addition of googly eyes turns them into a fun pet monster! Learn how to make a pom-pom then let your imagination do the rest – you could turn them into a trendy wreath or a decorative garland, if you like. 15. Try a science experiment Part recipe, part science experiment – children will love making our instant vanilla ice cream. Watch as milk turns into a delicious dessert before your very eyes! The secret here is adding salt to the ice, which lowers the temperature and allows the milk to freeze in minutes. 16. Make a pancake masterpiece Pancakes aren’t just for Pancake Day – they’re a brilliant way to keep little hands busy and bellies full at the weekend. Whether you're flipping a quick batch for breakfast or making a leisurely brunch spread, there’s plenty of fun to be had. Try shaping your stacks like cheerful buzzing bees, or get creative with fruity lion faces following our pancake art inspiration. For a real treat, lay out a pancake sharing board and let the kids take charge with their favourite toppings. Want to add a bit of friendly competition? Crown the most imaginative creation with a homemade medal biscuit – it’s a win-win. 17. Fly to the moon Moon sand is a brilliant hands-on activity for babies, toddlers and young children – it’s calming to play with, encourages creativity and helps develop fine motor skills. You can make your own at home with just two store-cupboard ingredients: cornflour and oil. It’s wonderfully soft and mouldable, and while it can get a little messy, it’s easy to sweep up with a dustpan and brush – ideal for indoor play. 18. Messy science Oobleck might sound like something from a storybook – and it is! This curious substance takes its name from a Dr Seuss tale, but it’s actually one of the easiest science experiments to try at home. Made with just two ingredients, oobleck behaves like both a solid and a liquid, which never fails to fascinate curious minds. It’s a fun, hands-on way to explore basic science concepts – no glazed-over eyes, just wide-eyed wonder. 19. Sew your own bunting If you’re after an activity that’ll keep kids engaged for a good few hours, homemade bunting is a lovely option. Taking around 4-6 hours, it’s perfect for a quiet day indoors. Along the way, children can pick up some simple sewing skills, and at the end, you’ll have cheerful decorations to brighten up your home. Choose fabrics to suit the season – think birthday prints, festive colours or summery florals – and save your finished bunting to bring out for special occasions. 20. Try origami Origami is a brilliant indoor activity – no special kit required, just a stack of paper and a bit of patience. Try one of our easy designs, from a playful jumping frog (add googly eyes for extra charm) to a delicate paper butterfly. There’s something to suit all ages and skill levels, making it a calming, creative way to pass the time. Discover more ways to keep kids busy Rainy day cooking projects for kids Top 10 easy bakes for children Top no-bake recipes for kids 5 half-term recipes for kids Find over 400 guides on everything from the best wooden play food and kids baking set ideas to amazing space projects for kids in our reviews section. What are your favourite activities on a rainy day? Let us know in the comments below…
When you need to keep the little ones entertained at home but don't have any flour, try these easy baking recipes for an afternoon of fun in the kitchen.
No flour in the cupboard? The kids can still enjoy these creative baking projects, from cornflake cakes and peanut butter cookies to rocky road and beyond. These recipes are all made without flour and most of them use cheap storecupboard ingredients that should be easy to find, or can be easily swapped for a replacement. For more ideas, visit our activities for kids and kids’ baking recipes. Remember to always wash your hands before and after handling food. Next discover our top flourless baking recipes, flourless cake recipes, and gluten-free baking recipes. 1. Raspberry honey flapjacks Using just five ingredients, these raspberry honey flapjacks make for a lovely afternoon snack. Children will love melting together the ingredients and mixing in the porridge oats, before pressing into the tin. If you don’t have raspberries, any frozen fruit would work, such as blueberries or a summer fruits mix. 2. No-bake orange cheesecake Our no-bake orange cheesecake is an easy recipe designed with little ones in mind – let’s face it, smashing up digestive biscuits is always a fun activity! You can segment fresh oranges for the decoration on top or use canned mandarins and peaches, if you like. 3. Crispy chocolate fridge cake There’s no need to even turn the oven on with this crispy chocolate fridge cake, keeping it even safer for little hands. It’s packed with biscuits, sultanas, puffed rice and lots of chocolate – simply decorate these with anything you might have lurking in the treat cupboard.Watch our video for step-by-step instructions on how to make fridge cake. 4. Peanut butter cookies Most of our kids’ cookies recipes have flour in them, but these little miracles don’t need any! Our popular peanut butter cookies only need three simple ingredients and a pinch of salt to bring them to life. 5. Gluten-free lemon drizzle cake Kids will think the secret ingredient to this gluten-free lemon drizzle cake is an absolute hoot – it uses mashed potato, along with ground almonds, instead of flour. This recipe is cheap to make with simple ingredients that you should have on hand. 6. Chocolate cornflake cakes Keep it simple with a batch of chocolate cornflake cakes, where children can help with weighing, melting, mixing and spooning into the individual cupcake cases. You just need to pop them in the fridge to firm up and then they’re ready to enjoy – easy. 7. Unicorn poo meringues Whisk together sugar and egg whites to create these adorable unicorn poo meringues – they make a brilliant afternoon project. Feeling full of the joys of spring? Our lemony Easter chicks use a similar whisking method and are just as cute. 8. Chilli chocolate & black bean brownies Black beans replace the flour in these clever chocolate brownies with chilli chocolate. If your kids prefer their food less spicy, simply swap for a plain chocolate variety. These easy treats will soon become a new favourite! 9. Hot cross bread & lemon pudding If you don’t have flour but you do have leftover bread, a bread & butter pudding could be the answer. This hot cross bread & lemon pudding is sure to be a hit with all the family – get younger ones to help spread the bun slices with lemon curd and then whisk together all the milky ingredients for a sweet and satisfying dessert. 10. Rocky road Another recipe which is wonderfully forgiving when you need to swap ingredients, rocky road is a teatime favourite that never fails to please. Sticky marshmallows, crunchy biscuit and plenty of chocolate make this a project kids will be happy to get stuck into. If you can resist it, the bars will keep in the fridge for up to a week. Discover more ways to keep the kids busy Indoor activities for kids Kids’ cooking projects Mocktail recipes for kids Ways to keep children active Easy and fun springtime crafts How to make playdough As many countries urge populations to stay at home, many of us are paying more attention to our diets and how the food we eat can support our health. To help sort out the fact from the fiction, BBC Future is updating some of their most popular nutrition stories from their archive. What are your top recipes when you've run out of flour? We'd love to hear your ideas below…
Try making your own homemade fizzy bath bombs for an easy kitchen project that kids will love – give these as gifts or use them to make bath times more fun.
Making bath bombs is a great indoor activity that will keep the kids busy on a rainy afternoon – and they're also a lovely gift for friends and family. Experiment with colours, add flowers from your garden and use different shapes. Once you have the main ingredients, it's really easy to adapt this recipe to what you already have at home. These ingredients are safe to use in the bath, but it's important to note that bath bombs are inedible. We recommend this craft for children aged eight years or over. For more hands-on crafts, see how to make slime, salt dough, paper mache, playdough, air-dry clay, bubble mixture, oobleck and moon sand with affordable ingredients and easy steps. Keep the little ones entertained at home with our summer activities for kids, sensory play ideas, fun yoga for kids and birthday ideas for kids at home. See our new Kid's Kitchen series for essential cookery skills, plus easy recipes kids can make and kids summer baking projects. Browse our family & kids hub for plenty of inspiration. How to make a bath bomb View Green Video on the source website Bath bomb recipe Makes 4 half-balls Prep 30 mins, plus 2-4 hrs setting What do you need to make a bath bomb? 100g bicarbonate of soda 50g citric acid 25g cornflour 25g Epsom salt (optional) 2 tbsp oil – such as sunflower, coconut or olive oil ¼ tsp essential oil, such as orange, lavender or chamomile a few drops of liquid food colouring orange peel, lavender or rose petals, to decorate (optional) You will also need mixing bowl whisk plastic moulds (see below for ideas) View Affiliate Playlist on the source website Method 1. Put the bicarbonate of soda, citric acid, cornflour and Epsom salt in a bowl, then whisk until fully combined. 2. Pour the base oil, essential oil and food colouring in a small bowl. Mix together well, combining the oil with the colouring as much as possible. 3. Very slowly add the oil mixture into the dry ingredients a little at a time, whisking between each addition. When all the oil is added, add a few tiny drops of water and whisk again (it will fizz when you add the water, so mix it in quickly). You're looking for the mixture to slightly clump together when pressed in your hand and keep its shape – it shouldn't be too wet. 4. If you're adding peel or flower petals to decorate, drop them into the bottom of your chosen mould. Pack your mixture tightly on top, pressing down and smoothing out the top with a teaspoon. 5. Leave your bath bomb in the mould to dry for 2-4 hrs, then carefully remove it. It's now ready to drop into the bath – watch it fizz away! What can I use as a bath bomb mould? You can use anything flexible as a mould for your bath bombs, so have fun looking around your home for things you could use. Here are some ideas to get you started: Yogurt or pudding pots Christmas tree decorations (we used a star) Plastic packaging from toys Easter egg packaging Silicone ice cube trays Silicone cupcake cases Plastic biscuit cutters (place them on a tray) For children, we suggest making half-shapes as it can be tricky to make a sphere that sticks together. If you want to make a complete sphere, you'll need a two-sided mould. Slightly overfill each side with the mixture, then press firmly together and secure with elastic bands while it dries. Be very gentle when you remove them from the moulds. Where can I buy citric acid? Citric acid is often used in homemade cordials and winemaking – you'll find it as an ingredient in shop-bought bath bombs. The reaction with the bicarbonate of soda is what makes your bath bomb fizzy. You can buy citric acid online and from some larger pharmacies. For our recipe, we used Wilko citric acid. Top tips for making bath bombs Be sure to use liquid food colouring, not gels. Gels will clump together when you add them to the bicarbonate and it's hard to mix them in. Once you've added the liquid to the mixture, you need to work quickly to mix everything together and push it into the mould as soon as you can. To allow your bath bombs to dry, leave them uncovered in a cool, dry place (away from taps and humidity). They will take longer to set in humid weather. If you've got more than one colour, why not make a rainbow bath bomb? Layer up the different colours and they will blend together beautifully. Looking for more kids' activities? Indoor activities for kids How to make bubbles Top 10 easy bakes for children How to make slime without borax Playdough recipe How to make oobleck How to make moon sand How to make bubble mixture Have you tried making your own bath bombs? Leave a comment below…
Make these thoughtful homemade gifts for Father’s Day, with sweet and savoury ideas including easy biscuits, chutney, tiffin, chocolate truffles and more
Looking to make something special for Father’s Day? Find inspiration with these delicious homemade recipes and DIY gift ideas, perfect for packaging up into a gift box or even sending in the post. We’ve included quick and easy recipes for impressive last-minute presents, alongside a few special treats that will take a little longer to prepare. For those with children, our Father’s Day baking for kids is packed full of simple family-friendly ideas, or treat dad to a homemade card with our Father's Day card ideas for kids. We also have our vegetarian Father's Day menu including hearty, picture-perfect mains. Want to create the ultimate gift? Pick his favourite cuisine from our top cookbooks, or treat him to a grand day out at one of our events. Father's Day edible gifts 1. Chocolate tiffin This tempting chocolate tiffin is a sweet treat that won’t break the bank, using storecupboard staples such as golden syrup, crushed biscuits and a few spoonfuls of cocoa powder. Baking novices and younger chefs will love this easy recipe, which sets in the fridge overnight for minimal fuss. 2. Savoury biscuits Got a dad who loves cheese? Bake him the perfect accompaniment with these manchego & chorizo biscuits. Alternatively, our cheese & rosemary biscuits are bound to be a hit – or, for a longer-lasting gift that’s robust enough to send in the post, try our savoury biscotti. 3. Homemade fudge Our popular vanilla fudge makes a lovely present and can be easily boxed up or sealed in a sweet shop-style paper bag. This traditional method requires a little patience to make, so if you need an easier recipe try our fast truffle fudge or our microwave boozy fudge – both equally as delicious. If dad is a chocolate lover, he'll be more than pleased with our chocolate fudge. Alternatively you could make this Scottish tablet for a sweet treat – tablet is similar to fudge, but with a more crumbly texture. 4. Simple iced biscuits Create a personalised and edible Father’s Day card with these simple iced biscuits, spelling out a loving message just for Dad. This recipe is perfect for baking with kids, allowing them to get creative both with the message and the biscuit decorations – making it a fun, heartfelt way to celebrate. Discover a selection of dunkable biscuit recipes, perfect for spreading a little extra joy to Dad this Father’s Day. 5. Boozy bottles Looking for a more grown-up gift? If you have time before the big day, make a batch of refreshing limoncello to toast the occasion, or put seasonal produce to good use with a rhubarb & strawberry vodka. Is dad partial to a martini? Put together a bespoke martini mixology kit, or read our guide on how to make flavoured spirits for even more infusion ideas. 6. Picnic treats Plan a posh picnic on Father’s Day and make it extra special by making a few homemade treats such as mini pork pies with piccalilli, summer sausage rolls and scotch eggs. For more inspiration, take a look at our picnic recipe collection. 7. Delicious chutneys Accompany some top-notch local cheeses or charcuterie with a jar of lovingly-made chutney – we think bacon jam, seasonal runner bean chutney, this gorgeous sweet chilli sauce or chorizo jam would work perfectly for Father’s Day. A jar of these colourful, spiced quick pickled onions would add piquancy to a ploughman’s, or take 10 minutes to make a jar of marinated goat's cheese. You could even take it one step further by pairing homemade chutney with a homemade baked camembert kit. Whatever your dad’s taste, you can customise the jar with homemade labels for extra brownie points. 8. Cheeseboard If you’re not a seasoned chef, there’s no need to fret. Take a look at our guide to the finest British cheeses and curate a personalised Father’s Day cheeseboard for Dad. While the cheese itself may not be homemade, carefully selecting his favourite varieties shows you’ve put thought into his preferences—proving that effort and care are what really make a gift special. 9. Truffles Handcrafted truffles are easier to make than you might think – our easy chocolate truffles use just a few ingredients and can be adapted to whatever liqueurs take your fancy. For a real sense of luxury, choose impressive tiramisu or mint chocolate flavours. 10. Raspberry ripple blondies Make the most of seasonal raspberries in this bake, paired with two types of chocolate for a truly indulgent treat. Gift it to Dad, and he might be tempted to keep it all to himself – though with 12-16 servings, he may just share a slice or two. Discover a range of terrific traybake recipes, easy enough for the kids to take the lead, yet generous enough to be enjoyed time and time again with tea or as a tasty snack. 11. Chocolate bark If all else fails and you’ve run out of time before 21 June, our easy chocolate bark is always on hand as a quick gift solution. You can swap the chocolate for whatever dad likes best, and decorate with your own choice of toppings – glacé cherries, mini marshmallows and chocolate buttons all work well. Is dad a fruit and nut fan? Try our super-simple salted fruit 'n' nut bark, or recreate our speedy peanut brittle for a last-minute gift – it takes just over five minutes to make! 12. Breakfast in bed Start Father’s Day off right by treating Dad to breakfast in bed. A breakfast sandwich is always a winner – try our breakfast club for a hearty choice that delivers plenty of flavour. With layers of sausage, egg, hash browns, bacon and mushrooms, it packs nearly all the components of a full English into one delicious sandwich. For a lighter, fresher option, our acai bowl offers a vibrant, fruity start to the day that’s sure to keep Dad smiling. 13. Beer tasting menu If your dad is a beer lover, treat him to a selection of his favourite brews and create a personalised tasting menu, pairing each beer with the perfect food. Our handy guide on matching beer to food will help you craft a flavourful experience he’ll appreciate. 14. Homemade pesto or oils A simple yet effective way to elevate any meal is with infused oil. Make Dad a bespoke oil infused with his favourite flavours to enhance his cooking. Try our harissa oil, ideal for marinating meats, or our peanut, chilli & garlic oil, perfect for drizzling over stir-fries to add a fiery kick. Homemade pesto is another versatile gem – not just for pasta, but a wonderful addition to breakfast, sandwiches, and more. Explore our pesto recipes for a world of possibilities that will truly elevate his meals. 15. Homemade ice cream If the weather’s on your side – and let’s hope it is – why not make some homemade vanilla ice cream to enjoy as a family in the sunshine? If classic vanilla feels a bit too plain, try one of our more adventurous flavours, like strawberry jam ripple or honey & lime, for a fun twist on a summer favourite. Like this? Discover more ideas for Father’s Day 14 of the best Father's Day food gifts Barbecue gifts for Father’s Day Top 10 easy baking recipes for Father’s Day Father’s Day cooking projects for kids Breakfast recipes for Father’s Day 8 boozy gifts to buy your dad this Father’s Day The best chocolate subscriptions and clubs Have you tried making these recipes for Father's Day? Let us know his favourites below…
Celebrate with our Galentine's Day ideas on 13 February – the perfect alternative to Valentine’s Day, with delicious starters, mains and desserts to enjoy
Wondering how to host an alternative Valentine's Day party? Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be a traditional meal for two – you can honour the season of love by sharing delicious food with as many guests as your table can manage. For inspiration, explore our party food, finger food, and canapé recipes – perfect for easy, crowdpleasing bites. Need something more substantial? Our feed-a-crowd recipes are ideal for big-batch meals that satisfy even the hungriest guests. Entertaining doesn’t have to be a hassle – with our easy entertaining recipes, hosting a memorable Valentine’s party is as stress-free as it is enjoyable. Galentine's Day food ideas What is the meaning of Galentine's Day? Galentine's Day is a celebration of female friendship on 13 February. Invite friends, family and loved ones to a sophisticated dinner party. These handpicked recipes are achievable yet impressive, with just the right amount of pizzazz for the occasion. Discover our starter, main and dessert ideas. If you have a larger crowd to cater for and need more buffet-style recipes, try one of our sharing recipes. Starters To start, serve guests a few canapés and cocktails before they sit down to eat. Once they’re ready for their meal, a bowl of mussels with leeks & saffron makes for a luxurious appetiser. These shellfish are in season from October to March and are more affordable than oysters but still feel special. Alternatively, assemble a seafood cocktail platter. Everyone will enjoy creating their prawn cocktail precisely as they prefer. For more ideas, visit our dinner party starter recipe collection. Main courses Keep the winter chills at bay with our traditional nihari – a slow-cooked spiced lamb stew from Pakistan. With just 20 minutes of prep, this fuss-free dish transforms into meltingly tender meat that falls off the bone. For a gluten-free alternative, try our chicken karahi, delivering bold flavours everyone will love. You might also want to consider our pastry-laden spinach & ricotta slice as a vegetarian option, or visit our vegetarian dinner party recipe collection for more meat-free inspiration. Desserts Finish your evening in style with the perfect dinner party dessert. We think, given it’s Galentine’s Day, a self-saucing chocolate pudding or this striking squidgy chocolate & pomegranate torte is in order! For a fruitier option, it’s easy to scale up our recipe for champagne & raspberry possets to make enough for your guests, or perhaps individual bakewell trifles will hit the spot. Sharing recipes to feed a crowd Why not serve a stunning sharing platter this Galentine's Day? It's easy to assemble with all of your favourite cheeses, charcuterie and crackers and requires minimal effort, so you can kick back and relax with friends. For your vegetarian and gluten-free friends, this one-pan nachos with black beans is a great solution and can be easily made vegan if needed with vegan cheese and sour cream. Air-fryer buffalo cauliflower wings always go down a storm at any party and to round off the meal you could treat your friends to a cookie dough pizza or a no-bake salted caramel cheesecake. Looking for Valentine’s Day recipes? Try our ideas Our ultimate Valentine’s Day recipe collection Easy Valentine’s Day recipes Quick Valentine’s Day recipes Budget Valentine’s Day recipes Valentine’s Day cake recipes What recipes would you choose for a Valentine’s Day dinner party? Leave a comment below…
These easy Valentine’s Day recipes can be made with the kids, including cute themed biscuits, homemade chocolates and muffins that are sure to melt hearts
Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to try some kids' baking recipes, so we've rounded up some easy bakes to make with the little ones – expect heart shapes, sprinkles and chocolate galore! Kids can bundle up these sweet treats into boxes and bags for grandparents, family or friends – they're sure to be impressed by such a thoughtful gift. For more inspiration, see our guide to the top 10 Valentine’s Day cake recipes and best Valentine's baking recipes. For general Valentine's Day recipes check out our Valentine's Day recipe collection. Looking for fun activities for the kids to get involved in? Check out the top 10 egg carton crafts for kids, origami for kids and rainy day cooking projects for kids. For more baking ideas see our best kids' baking recipes and top 20 easy bakes for kids. 1. Easy jam tarts These easy jam tarts are ready in just 30 minutes if you use readyAlso try our indulgent British classic pudding, Queen of Puddings recipe.-made pastry. It's a bake that's quick enough to hold the attention of little ones, and jammy enough to be a big hit. Kids will love rolling and cutting out hearts to decorate the tops. Also try our indulgent British classic pudding, Queen of Puddings recipe. 2. Millionaire's shortbread Treat friends and family to our indulgent millionaire’s shortbread this Valentine’s Day – a gift guaranteed to make them feel a million pounds. With a buttery shortbread base, gooey caramel layer and rich dark chocolate topping, it’s the ultimate teatime delight – perfect for sharing the love. 3. Melting heart muffins Super-chocolatey and with a white chocolate truffle centre, kids especially love these melting heart muffins. They're wonderfully easy to make, too, and are perfect for a school cake sale. 4. Love bug biscuits Decorate heart-shaped biscuits in a new way: with a bit of icing, they can be turned into cute love bug biscuits. The detail involved means this recipe is better suited to slightly older children, but even if the results are less than perfect, they are bound to be equally admired. 5. Peppermint candy biscuits Kids will love these heart-shaped cookies. The recipe has been specially designed so that children can take the lead while an adult acts as sous chef. These peppermint candy biscuits are so delicious, we won't tell if you decide to taste a few before sharing with friends and family. 6. Really enormous chocolate buttons Nothing says 'love' like really enormous chocolate buttons. This recipe is perfect for young children, as they can help with everything from spooning out the chocolate to decorating with toppings – even the smallest of hands can be involved every step of the way. Lay out bowls of decorations so the kids can go sprinkle crazy without any big spills, then stand back and watch the fun. 7. Lemon kisses These melt-in-the-mouth lemon kisses are dainty, light and hard to resist. Help the kids bake up a batch, then lay on a Valentine's afternoon tea for your loved ones. 8. Cherry brownie babycakes Sweet and simple, these cherry brownie babycakes are popular with all ages, and look rather romantic when decorated with a fresh cherry and an extra sprinkling of cocoa powder. 9. Chocolate truffles Let the kids loose with rolling and decorating these easy chocolate truffles. Get creative with toppings like crushed pistachio nuts, lightly toasted desiccated coconut, orange zest and cocoa powder for maximum wow factor. 10. Chocolate bark Help the kids make a delicious homemade chocolate bark with this easy, versatile recipe. We've decorated it using salty pretzel pieces and crunchy honeycomb, but feel free to use up leftover chocolate or snacks you have in the cupboard. 11. Little rose & almond cupcakes These charming rose and almond cupcakes are a great bake to make with kids. Before being decorated, they can be frozen, so you can prepare the cakes ahead of time, then ice later to suit each lucky giftee. A thoughtful, personalised present – and even better than a real flower, because they’re edible. 12. Fruit & nut chocolate chequers These beautiful fruit & nut chocolate chequers couldn't be easier to make and look equally charming. Decorate with your choice of raspberry flakes, pecans, candied peel. 13. Basic cookies Cookies have never looked so simple thanks to this basic cookie recipe. Bake a batch with just five ingredients – or fewer. Ready in less than half an hour, they're a solid option for a last-minute spot of baking. 14. Flourless brownies This recipe for flourless brownies requires just five ingredients, so it's a great one for getting the little ones involved. Serve warm with plenty of ice cream for a heavenly Valentine's pud. 15. Chocolate-chip cookie ice-cream sandwiches The kids will love helping make these chewy American-style biscuits. Sandwiched between vanilla ice cream, they make a super delicious hand-held treat for Valentine's. 16. Edible name place biscuits Finish off a Valentine's Day table spread with these simple, mint-iced name place cookies. They're fun to make with the kids and the instructions are simple – simple decorate shop-bought cookies with thick icing, sweets and sprinkles. 17. Chocolate traybake Let the kids leave a heartfelt message for a special someone on this fudgy chocolate traybake, using their favourite sweets, edible sprinkles, nuts and chocolate shavings. Just remember to leave some for the recipient! 18. Chocolate orange tart Little hands can easily assemble this clever no-bake tart, they'll just need supervision when using the food processor. Start them early, experimenting with all-natural ingredients such as dates, coconut oil, ground almonds and raw cacao. 19. Easy iced buns Kids will love presenting these decorated iced buns on Valentine's Day. To decorate, simply mix icing sugar with a little water until stiff but spreadable – add food colouring, if you like. Dip in the top of each bun and scatter with sprinkles. 20. Simple iced biscuits These simple iced biscuits make a fun baking project for kids to get stuck into. Let the kids spell out mum's name or, if they're feeling ambitious, a sweet Valentine's message. Look for more inspiration? Try these guides Kids’ baking recipe collection Indoor activities for kids Top 5 easy bakes for kids How to make chocolate truffles Top 10 Valentine’s Day cupcakes Have you tried these recipes with the kids? Leave a comment below...
Make an impression this Valentine’s Day with one of our romantic cakes – we have plenty of delicious dessert ideas to help you go the extra mile.
Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to enjoy an indulgent treat, whether it’s gooey chocolate cake or a fresh passion fruit sponge to make you go weak at the knees. Find the perfect dessert or pudding for your loved one in our Valentine's baking recipes collection, decorate your heart out with some Valentine's day cupcakes or gift some homemade chocolate truffles and sweets from our Valentine's chocolate collection. For more refined and indulgent treats, try out a recipe or two from our Valentine's day desserts. Once you’ve carefully chosen your Valentine’s Day menu, you’ll want to round the evening off in style with a slice of delicious cake and an optional glass of Prosecco. Here, we’ve picked our 10 most romantic cakes so you can choose your ideal match. Now discover our top Valentine's Day menu ideas, budget Valentine's Day dinner ideas, top Valentine's Day meals and Valentine's projects for kids. 1. Rosewater & raspberry sponge cake This gorgeous rosewater & raspberry sponge cake is topped with rose petals, fresh raspberries and an elegant pink icing – what could be more romantic? It would sit pretty as a special Valentine’s Day centrepiece, but luckily this sponge cake is easy enough for baking novices. 2. Hidden heart cake If you’re looking to push the boat out with something unusual, you can’t go wrong with our fantastic hidden heart cake! Smothered with a creamy chocolate ganache, the real treat comes from the surprise heart shape inside, revealed when you slice into the cake. You’ll need to plan ahead – it’s a labour of love, but totally worth it. 3. Squidgy chocolate & pomegranate torte Rich and handsome, it’s so easy to fall in love with this decadent dessert! A slice of our squidgy chocolate & pomegranate torte is the perfect ending for a night of Valentine’s Day celebrations – a well-whisked batter is the technique you’ll need to make this cake blissfully light and delicious. 4. Passion cake If you’re a fan of passion fruit martinis, you’ll love this sumptuous triple-layered passion cake. Bursting with tropical flavours and dressed with a zesty cream cheese frosting, it’s a real showstopper. 5. Easy caramel cake Need to whip something up at the last minute? This indulgent caramel cake is wonderfully quick and easy to make – great for beginner bakers or those short on time. The secret is using readymade dulce de leche and caramel pieces, which can be strewn over the top with your own artistic flair. 6. Red velvet cake Red velvet cake has swiftly become a modern classic – give it a go with this popular recipe by Cassie Best. It boasts a vibrant red colour and a subtle chocolate flavour, plus the cream cheese frosting gives it a truly sophisticated vibe. 7. Giant fondant fancy cake This nostalgic bake is as cute as it is tasty. Fill with your special someone's favourite jams and you're sure to make their day. 8. Romantic rose cupcakes For those not necessarily planning dinner, baking a batch of romantic rose cupcakes makes for a thoughtful homemade gift. They’re decorated with simple sugar roses and a swirl of white chocolate frosting to make them extra special. 9. Ultimate chocolate cake Calling all chocolate lovers – our top-rated recipe for the ultimate chocolate cake might be just what you’re looking for! The sponge is beautifully rich and fudgy, made even better with the addition of chocolate ganache and extra chocolate curl decorations. 10. Raspberry spice cake An elegant teatime treat, this raspberry spice cake is more effort to make but will certainly deliver the wow factor! The sponge layers are enriched with buttermilk for moisture and delicately spiced with cinnamon, cloves and ginger – when paired with the raspberry filling, it really packs a punch. 11. Easy speculoos cake You're sure to win the heart of any speculoos fans with this rich layered cake. The biscuit spread is incorporated into the cake batter as well as the buttercream icing for a truly irresistible dessert. 12. Pandan cake Cutting into this pandan cake reveals a bright green interior from the pandan extract, which is combined with coconut, vanilla and rose. It's a little more effort, but its light and fluffy texture is sure to impress. Discover more sweet ideas for Valentine’s Day Our ultimate Valentine’s Day baking recipes Top 10 Valentine’s Day cupcakes Valentine’s Day projects for kids 29 romantic chocolate recipes Top tips for a successful Valentine’s Day Have you baked any of these cakes for Valentine’s Day? We’d love to hear your favourites in the comments below…