Tasty gingerbread people are a traditional biscuit that can be made healthier than the highly-refined shop-bought biscuits and are great fun to decorate. The biscuits can also be made into different shapes according to the season. Pumpkins and ghosts will add a spooky touch at a Hallowe'en party, while Christmas trees and stockings will bring a sparkle to the festive holidays.
Blackcurrant and banana warmers is a fruity drink which is perfect on a chilly day and much healthier than hot chocolate. It is excellent after a spot of trick and treating or after an evening around the bonfire.
A large batch can be stored in a jug in the fridge but must be used up within days. The mixture can also be poured into ice-lolly moulds for an extra special treat.
Both recipes are low in fat, high in fibre and an excellent source of minerals and vitamins. As well as being tasty, the recipes are also an ideal way to spend quality time together.
Wholesome Gingerbread People
Simple to make and delicious on the taste-buds. These are ideal as snacks, party food or a tasty addition to children's packed lunches.
Preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 50g polyunsaturated margarine
- 75g light muscovado sugar
- 30ml clear honey
- 100g wholemeal flour
- 75g plain flour
- 10ml ground ginger
- 5ml bicarbonate of soda
- 1 egg, beaten
- Currants
- Orange rind
Method:
- Lightly grease a baking sheet and set aside.
- Melt the margarine, sugar and honey in a saucepan, stirring constantly until all the sugar has dissolved.
- Place the flour, ginger and bicarbonate of soda in a bowl and make a well in the centre.
- Pour in the melted mixture and mix. Add enough egg to form a soft dough, and allow to cool slightly.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and cut out the shapes of gingerbread men and women.
- Carefully transfer the gingerbread people to the baking sheets. Press on currants for eyes and use slivers of orange rind for mouths.
- Bake at 190 Degrees Celsius for 8 -10 minutes.
- Carefully place on a wire rack and allow to cool.
Blackcurrant and Banana Warmers
This drink can also be given an adult twist by adding a touch of spice. Nutmeg is especially pleasant in this recipe and adds a fiery touch of warmth. This recipe is especially rich in vitamin C, provided by the blackcurrant, bananas and apple juice.
Preparation: 5 minutes
Cooking: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 600ml unsweetened apple juice
- 100g blackcurrants
- 2 large bananas, peeled and cut into chunks.
Method:
- Place all the ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth.
- Pour into a pan and heat gently until almost boiling.
- Serve in heat proof mugs.
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