KEY POINTS:
Forget about the presents - in our house the Christmas tree is providing the most amusement.
When little fingers aren't desperately reaching for and squeezing the toes of the Christmas stockings, the decorations are being rearranged. Squashed and half-nibbled edible Santas are shared with the dog, and
silver balls yanked down and rolled on the floor - providing hours of
entertainment for the cats.
Amidst the mayhem there is still time to make a couple of last-minute treats. Whether you need to make a pressie, or just want scrummy treats in the cupboard, both these recipes are guaranteed winners.
First up - chocolate raisin fudge. Everyone loves eating fudge, and kids also love making it.
I have added raisins to the recipe, but they could easily be substituted with any kind of dried fruit or nuts - whatever takes your fancy.
It is simple to make, and all that stirring will hopefully tire the kids out.
When set, the fudge can be cut into small squares and popped into wee
containers or decorated boxes.
Panforte may seem a bit more sophisticated, but is actually just as easy to make. Traditionally in Italy, small panfortes were hung from the Christmas tree as presents for the children, with each village having
their own special recipe.
Panforte also makes a brilliant gift - it lasts for ages when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and is delicious served in thin
slices after dinner with coffee or a glass of port.
The children will love mixing all the ingredients together, sneaking bits of dried fruit and chocolate and smelling the wonderful Christmassy smells of cinnamon and nutmeg.
One thing to watch for though - as with the fudge recipe - it is probably a wise idea to leave the boiling stage of the recipe to the
older children or do that bit yourself.
Nasty burns would not be much fun for Christmas.