6 Flop-proof Christmas desserts for nervous cooks

Growing up, I loved Christmas trifle The sherry soaked sponge cake (that made the grandparents a bit tiddly), three kinds of jelly, instant custard, tinned fruit, nuts, glacé cherries, and buckets of cream… let’s not forget the hundreds and thousands! It was utter bliss, even when the leftover’s transformed into scary mush that we ate happily for days after. Good times!

Classic desserts

Now, years on, my tastes have developed and I have moved on but I still love classic desserts and have tried them all. Have you always wanted to make the classics like crème brulee, chocolate fondants or pavlova but never dared to try?

6 Fool-proof favourites you need to make…

And for the peeps that want to stick to tradition – with a twist, try experimenting with fresh berries and other seasonal fruit, boudoir biscuits, crushed meringues, salted caramel, lemon or passion fruit curd and homemade sponge cake.

1. Black forest meringue log – soft, light and fluffy meringue rolled with boozy cherries, dark chocolate and cream. This has to be my absolute favourite dessert this year. Check out this step by step gallery.

2. Homemade Pavlova – Crispy meringue with a squishy, sticky centre topped with cream, lemon curd and blue berries. Also one of my go-to recipes, especially after a heavy meal. So light and refreshing.

3. Crème brulée– smooth and velvety baked custard topped with crisp caramelised sugar. The husband’s favourite and he reckons it’s a pretty good one.

4. Chocolate fondant– gooey soft-centred chocolate puds – yum! Make ahead of time and just bake when you are ready. Check out the step by step gallery.

5. Mint choc shots – shot glasses filled with rich velvety dark mint chocolate mousse topped with shortbread and Peppermint Crisp crumble.

6. Vanilla panna cotta with berry compote – soft creamy vanilla goodness topped with homemade berry compote. Also a great option after a heavy meal.

So, what desserts will you be making this Christmas? Traditional trifle, trifle with a twist or something completely different? Do share.

Wishing you a happy and blessed Christmas dear foodies!