My winter checklist:
Trees turning? Check.
Occasional central heating required? Check.
Cats staying in longer? Check.
Craving for stodgy food? Check.
Shower dial turned another notch towards hot? Check.
Winter coat out of loft? Check.
These are my signs that winter is on its way.
Although spring and summer are my favourite times of year, winter does mean my birthday, bonfire night and of course Christmas. It is also the time of year for warming stews, midweek roasts and stodgy puddings - and weight gain if your not careful.
Sticky toffee pudding is one of my all time favourite winter treats. I have never attempted to make one before, normally happy to just purchase a good quality one from a supermarket, but I came across this recipe by Simon Hopkinson and I had to try it.
Whizzed up in the food processor and baked in the oven this treat is perfect to eat after a Sunday roast, simply put it in the oven while you are eating the main. I found molasses sugar in the supermarket and demerara is very easy to get hold of. Although sticky and sweet the sponge is especially light and delicate, served with simple vanilla ice cream I could very happily get fat on this.