Glazed plum cake

This glorious cake looks like something in a French pâtisserie, but is actually quite simple to make

Sugar-dusted snowflake cake

Give your Christmas cake a stylish and professional finish this year with this sparkling decoration idea

Summer celebration cake

This fruity cake is impressive but easy to make – perfect for birthdays or for dessert

Chocolate crunch bars

A little melting, stirring and chilling and you’ve got a chocolatey treat to enjoy with a cuppa. The kids can help, too

Sicilian potato cake

Contains pork – recipe is for non-Muslims only
This potato cake – torta di patate – is a staple in many a trattoria and it’s delicious eaten warm

Fruity teacake

Perfect with a reviving cuppa, this cake
is a keeper and will happily sit in a tin
for a week or so

Easy wreath cake

Make your Christmas cake extra special this year with this easy and speedy decoration

Hot chocolate milkshakes

Break 200g plain chocolate (I used 70% cocoa) into cubes and put into a pan with 600ml full-fat milk. Gently heat until the chocolate melts, then bring almost to the boil, whisking regularly until even and smooth. Can be made ahead, then chilled for up to 2 days. Re-heat if necessary, whisking, then ladle or pour into heatproof glasses or mugs. Top with scoops vanilla ice cream and mini marshmallows. Add a nip of rum or brandy for the adults, if you like.

Malt chocolate cheesecake

This crowd-pleasing dessert is made ahead, so all you have to do on the night is take it out of the fridge and bask in the glory

Chocolate orange brownies

You know these squidgy chocolate cake squares with orange zest are going to be good!

Chocolate tea-pots

Not only are these rich desserts served in tea cups, they’re also infused with Earl Grey and English Breakfast tea

Raspberry Bakewell cake

This simple almondy cake is a great way of using up pick-your-own raspberries