Vanilla custard slices

A glorious pastry classic that's tricky to get perfect, but lends a touch of patisserie luxury on an afternoon tea stand

Rhubarb & custard jelly

The classic flavour combination takes centre stage in this wobbly pudding with creamy and fruity set layers

Eton mess trifle

Layer a quintessentially British pudding with Sherry-steeped strawberries, meringue and cream then top with flaked almonds

Crushed new potato fish cakes with horseradish mayonnaise

Try this new idea for fishcakes – they contain smoked haddock and hidden greens – then serve with a contrasting dipping sauce

Broad bean, barley & mint salad

These little green beans go really well with grains like pearl barley – for a light touch, serve cold with goat’s cheese, mint and nuts

Sourdough

Baking a loaf of this dense, chewy bread requires making a fermented ‘starter’ from flour, but it’s worth the effort

Raspberry red velvet cake

Puréed fruit imparts much of the colouring in this rosy hued cake, that combines raspberries, cocoa and a good helping of cream cheese frosting

As-you-like-it chopped salad

Please everyone with a mixed platter of cucumber, beetroot, radish, carrot, sweetcorn, avocado and onion

Self-saucing chocolate pudding

Those on a gluten-free diet need not miss out on indulgent sponge desserts thanks to some clever swaps

Potato & smoked trout salad with mustard dressing

A light smoked fish salad with dill, capers and watercress in a tangy vinaigrette, use mackerel instead of trout if you like