TREACLE RINGS These are one of the traditional
Christmas sweets made at Christmas time in Malta. They are
called Qaghaq ta' l-ghasel (which is quite difficult to pronounce if
you are not familiar with the language) and they can be made ahead of time
and stored in airtight containers.
ALMOND AND CHOCOLATE PIE This
pie or cake called Torta tal-Marmurat in Maltese is still a
traditional favourite with many. The recipe has been handed down from
generation to generation and some ingredients may differ slightly from one
household to another. It is similar to the traditional Christmas fruit
cake and can be as rich in fruits and nuts depending on
different tastes.
CHRISTMAS BUNDT
CAKE This is a recipe my Auntie Marlene gave me
when we lived in Canada. She always makes at least two cakes for
herself and Uncle Maurice (i.e. for entertaining) and more to give as gifts.
Ever since, it has been our favourite too - my husband, Mario loves it (shhh!
and so do I) so I've ended up making more than one batch myself. For
those of you who do not like the traditional rich Christmas fruit cake or if
you'd like to try something different this year, this is a sure winner.
MINCEMEAT
What is Christmas entertaining without
mince pies? This is the traditional mincemeat filling that goes into
those delicious pies. Remember that the earlier the mincemeat is
prepared, the better the flavour. Once you've made it yourself, you
will probably never want to buy it ready made again! This is a
wholesome vegetarian version since no suet is used. (Also note that no sugar
has been added).
This recipe was given to me by my sister-in-law,
Marcelle. She says last Christmas she made 50 mince pies
plus other pies to which she added the filling. I can guarantee they
are scrumptious!
CHRISTMAS LOG
This has become a favourite Christmas sweet even in Malta. Marcelle
has given me her recipe for the unbaked Christmas Log - this is one that's
great with after dinner coffee.
GINGERBREAD RECIPE
'The Gingerbread Man' - a favourite story and a
favourite recipe. Lots of fun to make especially with
the kids.
NANAIMO BARS
Another favourite recipe from Canada. Great to make any time of the
year but more famous in winter especially at Christmas time. Chocolatey and easy to make, these bars may be made up to 1 month in advance
and stored, covered in refrigerator ready to be served during the festive
season.
CHOCOLATE CHRISTMAS BELLS These
unusual and decorative bells will be the talking point during dessert
or afternoon tea. My sister-in-law, Josette sent me the
recipe for making these chocolate bells. They need a little patience but are
certainly well worth the effort.
COCONUT MACAROONS
This recipe is a combination of the separate
recipes for coconut macaroons and almond macaroons. For fans of
macaroons this will surely turn out to be a favourite.