Kids in the Kitchen H Christmas H


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hristmas is one of the most expensive times of the year so why not cut down on expenses while getting your children into the kitchen at the same time. Unlike socks or aftershave, food gifts are rarely unwanted. The main difference between something home-made and a shop-bought treat is price, and with clever packaging, a home-made treat can be even more eye-catching than its commercial equivalent. The more ‘down


to earth’ and ‘artisan’ your presentation, the better the home-made treat looks. Stock up on icing sugar, twine, empty jam jars and brown paper bags and boxes. Check out boutique food shops and cafés and take pictures of ‘rustic’ items that capture your fancy, then simply reproduce the look at home! Not only will home-made gifts save you money, but family and friends will be touched that you took the time.


You don’t have to be Mary Berry! The following recipes are so easy that the whole family can join in.


By Anne Marie Scanlon


Mini Christmas Pudding Rice Krispie Cakes


The Rice Krispie cake has to be one of the easiest recipes ever created. It is next to impossible to fail and best of all, everyone loves them.


Ingredients:


50g Rice Krispies/popped rice cereal 50g Butter • 100g Milk Chocolate 80g White Chocolate Pre-made icing holly leaves


Method:


Melt the chocolate and butter together and mix well.


Put the Rice Krispies into a large bowl, add the melted chocolate and mix until every ‘Krispie’ is coated in chocolate.


Shape the mixture into little ‘puddings’ and put in the fridge until set.


Melt the white chocolate and dribble over the puddings. Top with the pre- made holly leaves and again leave in the fridge until completely set.


Presentation & Wrapping: Use a large dinner plate to draw


around and cut out a large circle of cellophane. Place a mound of ‘puddings’ in the middle and take the edges of the cellophane up to cover the mound. Hold together with an elastic band or Sellotape, then tie with twine and a handmade label.


Christmas Coconut Truffles Truffles are a perennial favourite and incredibly easy to make...


Ingredients: 200ml Double Cream


200g Dark Chocolate (minimum 70% Cocoa Solids)


200g Desiccated Coconut Method:


Chop the chocolate into small pieces and put in a mixing bowl.


In a saucepan, bring the cream gently to the boil.


Pour the cream over the chocolate and stir until both ingredients are completely blended and smooth. Leave the mixture in the fridge until it becomes solid.


Using a teaspoon, scoop out small pieces of the mixture and roll into bite- sized balls.


Roll each individual ball in coconut until it is completely covered.


Presentation & Wrapping: You can wrap these in cellophane


just like the Christmas Pudding Rice Krispie Cakes. Or line a small brown cardboard box with tissue paper and use twine to secure it. Add a handmade label made of brown cardboard.


Edible Garlands Edible decorations such as


gingerbread shapes and candy canes have been a staple on Christmas trees for a long time. The following edible garlands are so simple to make that even the smallest members of the family can help. They can be used to decorate your own home or can be given as gifts.


Ingredients:


A large sewing needle and thread. Popcorn, marshmallows, and dried fruit such as cranberries work well.


Method:


Double your thread to increase its strength and thread on the ingredients. Tie off the ends and hey presto! – It’s that simple!


Presentation & Wrapping: If you’re using these garlands as decorations then simplicity is key. Use one or two ingredients for an authentic rustic feel.


If you are planning on giving the garlands as gifts you can add all sorts of decorations – melted chocolate, edible glitter and more – let the kids take over! Then twizzle the garland into a large glass jar and tie with a ribbon and child’s handmade label. Perfect for grandparents!


24 Primary Times WINTER ISSUE


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