Flip out! Your ultimate pancake guide

Here are our top tips for getting Pancake Tuesday just right. Crêpe-style pancakes Resting the batter allows the flour to fully absorb the liquid and gives the gluten a chance to relax. This step is the secret to the best crêpes. Let the batter stand at room temperature for at least one hour, or place […]

Clever ingredient substitutes to make life easier

Never get caught without an ingredient again with these handy kitchen substitutes 240ml sour cream = 240ml plain yoghurt 125g self-raising flour = 25g plain flour + 1 tsp baking powder + ½ tsp salt + ¼ tsp bicarbonate of soda 1 tsp baking powder = ¼ tsp baking soda +½ tsp cream of tartar 1 tsp lemon juice = ¼ tsp cider […]

All things macaron

Macarons are often made in beautiful pastel colours and are such an elegant bake. They have a crunchy exterior with a chewy texture. Filled with delicious curd, coulis, jam or buttercream, you really don’t know what surprise may be waiting inside. I am going to guide you through the ways of the macaron. What is […]

A guide to making your own wedding cake

When it comes to cake decorating, it can be quite daunting! However, there is no need to fear it. Cake decorating can be really fun and such a personal thing to make for any special occasion, especially your own wedding cake. Here is a handy guide for decorating your own wedding cake. Cake prep It’s […]

A guide to chocolate

What is chocolate? Chocolate comes from the beans known as Theobroma cacao, a name that means ‘food of the gods’. The flavour of chocolate differs depending on how it is prepared and the ingredients used. Chocolate is made through a complex and lengthy process before it becomes the delicious treat we’ve all come to love. […]

Sugar substitutes

There are many reasons to use sugar alternatives, whether you’re looking for less of a sugar high and crash or even to explore new flavours in your bakes. Sugars unfortunately can’t simply be replaced with alternative sweeteners. Baking is a science and the balance of ingredients is essential. Sugar in baking of course adds sweetness; […]

9 sugar types and how they can be used

When it comes to baking, the best part is the sugar! But do you really know the difference between all the different types? Types of white sugars Granulated sugar I like to think of this as ‘sugar bowl sugar’, this is one we rely on to sweeten our tea or coffee. It is quite a […]

The ultimate guide to baking by food stylist Shannon Peare

I am baking obsessed and always love to try challenge myself with new bakes. With new challenges can certainly come with problems. I have compiled some of my best baking articles on my learnings along the way. I hope these will guide you on your baking journey so settle in with some tea… Sponge troubleshooting […]

Meringue mishaps

Something as simple as egg white and sugar can be transformed into so many beautiful desserts. Even though the ingredients may be simple, they can certainly have their problems, and you want to be confident about your meringue-making skills before running the risk of holding the bowl over your head. I’m going to run through […]

Top 8 pastry tips

When it comes to baking, a lot of things can go wrong and pastry is no different. Here are some tips for the perfect pastry. 1.     Just like ourselves, we need a rest after work and so does pastry. Allow your pastry to rest for at least an hour before rolling it out or it […]