Prawn cocktail cups

These retro starters can be made an hour in advance and handed round with drinks before dinner

Star sparkle cake

A super-simple yet effective Christmas cake decoration, especially if you want a modern looking cake

Brandy pudding

This pud is impressive, delicious and makes a great light alternative dessert to a traditional Christmas pudding

Chocolate & chestnut truffle torte

This glamorous dessert makes the perfect festive centrepiece for a posh Christmas party

Nutty, fruity, festive muffin tarts

The perfect sweet offering for the Christmas holidays, these tarts are a delicious cross between mince pies and muffins

Pickled pears & cheese platter

This stunning prepare-ahead starter can be served on individual plates, or just gather everyone around for drinks in the kitchen

Chocolate chestnut cupcakes

Sweet chestnuts and chocolate make a heavenly combination at Christmas time

Mini sage & onion scones

These mini savoury scones are quick to make and are cute canapés for your Christmas party

Clementine, feta & winter leaf salad

This wonderfully light salad is packed with easy-to-find seasonal ingredients and makes a great Christmas starter

Gingered rich fruit cake

This traditional cake has been jazzed up with lots of ginger – you’d never know it’s gluten-free and dairy-free. Perfect for weddings and Christmas

Polenta & goat’s cheese stacks

This show-stopping vegetarian main will dazzle dinner party guests and it’s special enough to serve on Christmas Day

Stollen buns

These sticky buns really capture the taste of Christmas and are great for sharing with friends and neighbours