Oh the wonderful aroma of Christmas baking!!!!

What a pleasure it is to clear the counters and haul out all the baking equipment. My only problem is that I get caught out every year....with the temperature. It is 30 degrees in the shade!!!

My view on Festive season decorations is that they should be placed where one spends most of one's time. For me, the answer to that statement is the kitchen! So, I start in the heart of my home with my festive season's adornment, as you will see. Why not????

This drying rack becomes a festive affair with beads, ribbons and balls.

If one has the time to visit antique shops and flea markets one can collect vintage beads and interesting trimmings. Thread the beads on a long elasticated cord, add from your collection at home and make generous bows from your ribbon collection.

Use ribbon or lace to create serviette ties for festive gatherings.

It is never too late to bake the oh so important Christmas cake....even if you only cut it at Easter time! 

Prepare the baking tins with three layers of aluminium foil.

Herewith my step - by -step  peep at today's baking.

Firstly the ever important preparation of the baking tins. Cut out three layers of foil and create a base layer, a top layer as well as a band to create a cuff to line the sides.

I prepared a boiled fruit cake, so the fruit mixture is heated with water so as to soften and moisten the dried fruit. One ends up with delightful, fat and juicy raisins, sultanas and currants....Yum!

Stir in juicy cherries and walnuts.

 

 

Once the bicarb, creamed butter and sugar and eggs have been added, stir in the cherries and walnuts.

Creamed butter and sugar with a touch of vanilla essence.

Stir in the sifted flour and spices.

 

 

The end result. A well mixed batter ready for the pans.

Ready for the oven!

 

 

Once the mixture has been shared between the baking tins, smooth over the top of the mixture so that it is even. Place the top layer of foil on top for protection and head off to the pre-heated oven for at least 2.5 to 3 hours! Your home will smell amazing....as mine does right now!

I will shortly post the recipe, as well as pictures of the baked cakes. Until then, I wish you a festive affair in your kitchen!