Spiced meringues with coffee-soaked prunes

The mixed spice in the meringues and plump, juicy prunes give a Christmassy flavour to this budget dinner party dessert

Black Forest sundaes with brownies

Based on the seventies cake classic that is Black Forest gâteau – this cherry, ice cream and brownie desert is heavenly. Don’t cheat – make your own brownies too

American pecan pies

Our favourite American dessert, perfected with a little kick of bourbon cream on the side

Tia Maria cheesecake

Perfect for a special occasion, this American style dessert really has the wow-factor

Plum crumble

Use two sugars and ground almonds for the perfect crunchy crumble topping, atop cinnamon-spiced plums

New potato & green bean salad

Try to use Jersey royals in this healthy take on a picnic classic then swap the mayo for honey mustard vinaigrette

Tasty cottage pies

The classic family dish from the Cooking with Auntie Sara series – perfect for getting the kids involved

Apple tart ‘Maman Blanc’

An elegant autumn dessert that’s easy to prepare as the pastry case does not need to be pre-baked

Apricot gâteau Pithiviers

A modern twist on an original classic French tart recipe

Cointreau pancakes

Full of orangey flavour, this recipe is an easy version of classic crêpes suzette – perfect for dessert

Chicken liver parfait with sultanas & raisins

Making your own paté is an extra-special touch- this version is flavoured with wine, cream, garlic and sage

Red velvet cake

Bake a modern classic with this fabulous red velvet cake. With a light chocolatey flavour and bright red sponge, it’s both delicious and gorgeous to look at