Build a plate of berries

The cost of berries increases a few days before Christmas, because of demand – we all want them to grace our festive table! Here’s how to make a few berries go a bit further. You’ll need icing sugar (confectioner’s sugar), and freeze-dried raspberry powder if you want a red dust. Meringues are cheap to make and can be done a good week in advance – put them in an airtight container and keep them in a cool pantry (or do them weeks ahead and freeze, but make sure you put them in a rigid container so they don’t smash; they don’t freeze solid, so use them straight from the freezer).

Then simply build your festive platter in a matter of minutes when you are ready. Serve with whipped cream, warmed mince pies if you have them, or Christmas pudd, and enjoy!