Chocolate fondant

A gooey prepare-ahead dessert that's perfect for entertaining – it's all a matter of timing…

Melting middle truffles

Get these made and in the freezer up to a month ahead, then simply pull them out when you’re ready

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

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

Dark & squidgy chocolate torte

This dessert is dark and dense, but not so rich it defeats you. It freezes brilliantly too

Broken biscotti ice cream with hot mocha

Give your ice cream an Italian twist with this simple recipe from Lesley Waters

Chocolate & pecan tart

Pecan pie crossed with chocolate tart with a dash of maple syrup – we can’t argue with that

Triple chocolate cookies

You've got all bases covered with white, milk and dark chocolate in these American-style cookies, best enjoyed warm with a cold glass of milk

Wedding cake – rich dark chocolate cake

This recipe makes the bottom layer of our three tier wedding cake or a simple delicious chocolate cake, perfect with a touch of cream