Once you’re done, the last job is putting on the tree topper ... the Christmas tree before you know it. Go big this Yuletide with a red and white striped bow providing the icing on the cake ...

for how to create the simple Christmas decorations in the photo. This recipe makes enough for a 18cm/7in round cake or a thin covering on 18cm/7in square cakes and 20cm/8in round cakes.

feed it with brandy in the run up to Christmas. Heat the oven to 150C/130C Fan/Gas2. Grease a 20cm/8inch round or an 18cm/7inch square cake tin and line the bottom and sides with baking parchment.