Domestic Goddess Makes Christmas Special 

Phoebe Claus. 

She came in a flurry of apron strings and festive ribbons, armed with sewing machine and recipe book. Her task - to equip us to be the best hostesses this festive season. 

First on the To-Do List  - Ginger Cake! - 

Before we knew it, we were up to our elbows in cake mixture, busy lining tins and measuring out the spices for Phoebe's acclaimed Ginger Cake. The spices give this delicious cake a festive air, whilst its light, gooey texture and subtle flavours ensure it will be a winner everywhere, whether you're wowing guests or giving it as a gift. Perfect served hot or cold with custard, cream, you name it! We ate ours still warm from the oven, heavenly with a mug of hot tea. 

Next Up - Christmas Decorations - 

After home-made spicy pumpkin soup, we cracked on with the day's activities - Out came the needle and thread, the crimping scissors and colourful fabrics. 

Simple felt rectangles were sewn together by sewing down through the centre, leaving a few stitches in between each piece of felt, and topping with a loop of Christmas ribbon at the top of the tree.When hung, this felt Christmas tree turns gently around, giving some bright festive colour to your room. 

  - The Mulled Wine Mix - 

Juniper Berries- can't say they're a usual ingredient in my cooking, but who knew they made mulled wine?! We simmered these gently, along with a rich assortment of sugar and spices to make mulled wine syrup, ready to be heated up with bottles of red wine to take the chill out of those cold dark nights.