Between the age of 13 and 18 I seldom got spots. And then, when I was 19, a mere 3 weeks before starting university, I suddenly got a number of big, bright red blemishes that wouldn’t go away. I knew I had to do something as I didn’t want my confidence knocked just as I was going to meet lots of new people at uni. Although I didn’t quite manage to completely ‘cure’ the spot situation, I got it under control using these products. Phew!
A mouthful of apple and blackberry crumble is Autumn to me. The rich, tangy sweetness of apple and blackberry with a crispy top is absolutely delicious. But of course, you know that already!
It’s getting cold outside and your skin might be feeling stressed by the vagaries of chilly weather. But dry hands and chapped lips needn’t scream (if they could!). Anyone who says they don’t like the Autumn effect needs to meet these products ASAP…
I’m not one to resist the strong tides of food trends, especially when they bring in caramel that’s (sea) salted. So these salted caramel cupcakes have been begging for exposure since I first made them over the summer. Rich chocolate sponge cupcakes with a super-sweet, very slightly salted caramel buttercream icing. Perfect for Halloween!
Flapjacks are the best snack for Autumn. Comforting, chewy, filling and so simple to bake.
Sometimes it’s the little changes in beauty that can make all the difference. Unimpeachably uplifting time savers and luxury skincare champions, gather around my camera and pose/poise to be snapped.
Your new favourite Autumnal dessert is here.
It’s a delicious double whammy of chocolate: the most perfect chocolate sponge covered in a silky creamy chocolate sauce. You make the sponge like a tray bake and watch it rise (cake rising in the oven is my favourite show) as it becomes a super springy chocolate cake with an air-whipped, spongey centre. So it’s incredibly light, yet naughtily rich. Super simple and divinely decadent.
If you bake this for friends, pour the chocolate sauce into a jug so everyone can serve their own. A nostalgic nod to childhood days of sponge pudding and custard served at indoor teddy-bear picnics.
Just get ready to divulge the recipe afterwards! (To teddy bears or friends…)
MmmmlettheCLATTERINGofplatesprovidethemusic.
This pasta bake needs little introduction. It’s best described as the most delicious and nutritious macaroni cheese you’ll ever eat. A sort of macaroni cheese-verde. I use elicoidali pasta shapes, which are like a giant version of macaroni, making every mouthful extremely satisfying and substantial, covered in a thick homemade cheese sauce with finely chopped bacon, leeks and spinach. It’s very straightforward and wonderfully indulgent, perfect for an Autumn dinner.
Everyone needs a good pie recipe up their sleeve (probably folded like an origami jester’s hat – because why not). There’s nothing better than a comforting homemade pie for Sunday lunch in the colder months that sets you up for the busy week ahead. Continue reading Steak Pie
When I open my wardrobe I can feel a bit lost.
It’s organised into sections and subsections, but sometimes that’s not enough. Short of installing actual sartorial signposts (does & Other Stories have a homeware section?) I’m left gripped by indecision and amused by the narrative my fashion choices chronicle. Continue reading Preppy Fashion