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If like me, you’ll spend the next week baking Christmas treats you might want to pick up a few of these spatulas and bun cases to help get you in the holiday spirit. Stars have always been my favourite shape, they so often symbolise magic, hope, dreams and the best feelings in life. So what better shape for your Christmas fairy cakes? Made from silicone, the cheerful red cake cases are reusable and can be popped in the oven, microwave or freezer. Paired with these festive silicone spatulas, you’ll be eager to dive into the kitchen. The bright green pine tree is moulded into the head, ensuring it won’t wear off. Pop out to the store and buy yourself a treat this Christmas with these affordable Christmas Spatulas and Bun Cases.
Set of 2 Christmas Spatulas - £5
12 Silicone Star Cake Cases - £7.50
Posted by Kate on December 19, 2008 12:00 AM
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I can’t believe I forgot about the Nordicware Christmas Tree Bundt Pan! Nordicware pan are always special, transforming simple cakes into beautiful edible sculptures. The Christmas Tree Bundt Pan creates a dense forest of decorated pines with a small toy train pattern running around the bottom. As always the Nordicware tin creates so much detail that extra icing isn’t needed. With a simple sprinkling of icing sugar you can create a gorgeous new fallen snow. The aluminium mould is made through high-pressure die casting, for a durable heavy gage and detailed construction. Dishwasher-safe and with a 20 year warranty, the fabulous Nordicware Christmas Tree Bundt Pan is available for £23.95 from DeCuisine. (If they run out of stock you can also try Colanders!)
Decuisine.co.uk
Nordicware Christmas Tree Bundt Pan - £23.95
Colanders
Nordicware Holiday Tree Bundt Pan - £27.36
Posted by Kate on December 1, 2008 12:08 AM
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Well the decorations go up this weekend, so it’s time to turn on the Christmas carols and really get into the Christmas spirit! When fighting with the tree and untangling the Christmas lights, festive treats can help keep your inner Scrooge at bay. In this cold weather there’s nothing better than a warm glass of mulled wine (and a plate of mince pies)! Rather than buy all those expensive spices and try to assemble them yourself, Lakeland have found a set that does the prep work for you. The wooden whisk is filled with all the cinnamon, nutmeg and star anise you need to make 1.5 litres of delicious mulled wine. Bring the taste of Christmas home with the Lomer Wine Whisk; £5.99 from Lakeland.
Lomar Mulled Wine Whisk - £5.99
Posted by Kate on November 28, 2008 12:06 AM
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If you’re tired of the traditional red and green, patterns like the new Lakeland Star are a fashionable way to celebrate the season. The Lakeland Christmas Spatula & Worktop Saver adds a bit of glamour to your Christmas cooking and baking. The contemporary design recreates the excitement of Christmas, perfect for the sophisticated hostess. Manufactured by Joseph Joseph the toughened glass Worktop Saver is scratch, stain and odour-proof and can even be used as a trivet (safe up to 280 °C). A brilliant choice for the trendy cook, these festive pieces can be used year round for birthdays and celebrations.
Lakeland Christmas Spatula - £4.99
Lakeland Christmas Worktop Saver - £9.99
Posted by Kate on November 25, 2008 12:02 AM
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The photos on this one just don’t do it justice. The country style Reindeer Cakeplate by Laura Ashley is an adorable way to display small cakes and biscuits this Christmas. The white enamel plate is pierced with a ring of leaping reindeer and accented with a vibrant red edge. A subtle and understated Christmas addition, the Laura Ashley cakeplate complements the Scandinavian style that is so trendy this year. Simple enough for modern homes and traditional enough for rustic kitchens, the Reindeer Cakeplate is a safe investment this Christmas. Available online from Laura Ashley, there is even a free delivery offer on at the moment!
Reindeer Footed Cakeplate - £15
Posted by Kate on November 21, 2008 12:08 AM
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Sometimes all your table needs is touch of flair, that extra bit of sparkle and shine. For a bit of that Christmas glamour, John Lewis offer a selection of festive napkin rings. Whether you want the high polished shine of the jewel studded Snowflake or the rustic style of the hammered brass Reindeer, these beautiful Napkin rings can bring the finishing touch to your trendy Christmas Table. Available for just a few pounds each, they are an affordable way to update your festive place setting. A brilliant way to add sparkle and charm to you dining table the Star, Reindeer & Snowflake Napkin rings are available from John Lewis.
Star Napkin Ring - £2
Reindeer Napkin Ring - £2
Snowflake Napkin Ring - £3
Posted by Kate on November 20, 2008 12:03 AM
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If you are expecting Father Christmas to stop by your house this year, you’ll hopefully be planning to leaving him a tasty snack. This adorable Father Christmas snack plate makes a wonderful family tradition. Decorated with cheerful reindeer, Christmas trees & happy snowflakes children will love setting this plate out for their magical visitor. The fine china mug is perfect for serving mulled wine, milk or a more hardy tipple, while the china tray holds a couple of biscuits, mince pies and the ever important carrot. A great way to add excitement to your Christmas Eve, the Father Christmas Snack Plate is £7.25 from DeCuisine.co.uk.
Thank-you Santa Mug & Plate Set - £7.25
Posted by Kate on November 18, 2008 12:00 AM
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It doesn’t take much to transform your everyday dishes into a cheerful festive table setting. With a just a few pieces of seasonal serving ware, like the Holly Branch Pattern from Caroline Zoob, you can bring an added warmth and charm to your table. Inspired by vintage spongeware, these lovely robins decorate a simple ivory bone china. The mottled sponge effect brings a soft character to these charming birds. The one pint jug is perfect for milk or cheese sauce, while the Large Holly Bowl is ideal for salad or fruit. They are even planning to release a raised platter before Christmas! A beautiful addition to your table this Christmas, the Holly Branch China is available from caroline-zoob.co.uk.
One Pint Holly Branch Jug - £18.95
Large 21cm Holly Branch Bowl - £24.95
Posted by Kate on November 17, 2008 12:02 AM
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When throwing a Christmas party, who can resist adding a section of delicious British cheeses. Rather than leave your guest guessing which cheese is which, these little mice can helpfully guide the way. The silver-plated mice markers identify six of Britian’s most popular flavours with quaint charm. Lancashire, Cheddar, Double Gloucester, Stilton, Cheshire and Red Leicester are each displayed below these eager mice. Perfect for an evening of wine and cheese or as a helpful guide for picky eaters, the Cheese Mice are just £7.99 from Lakeland.
Cheese Mice - £7.99
Posted by Kate on November 14, 2008 12:01 AM
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If no one in your house likes fruit cake, it doesn’t matter how carefully you prepare your decadent traditional Christmas Cake, it will be left sitting beautifully on the table. So instead of wasting your effort, why not try a new Christmas tradition? The new Lakeland Cake Tin transforms the common sponge cake into a sculptural masterpiece everyone will love. The highly detailed tin produces a lovely Christmas Wreath you don’t even need to decorate. Simple and quick to make, this cake makes a fabulous centre-piece that will have everyone asking for seconds! Designed to take an 8-egg sponge mix, the Christmas Wreath Tin is only available from Lakeland.
Christmas Wreath Cake Tin - £24.99
Posted by Kate on November 13, 2008 12:06 AM
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The fastest way to decorate your kitchen is with a few festive tea towels. Textiles always make a quick change that can bring a fresh new style to the kitchen. For an understated Christmas style, the Snowflake towels from Lakeland might be ideal. Suitable for use all winter long, these waffle-weave tea towels have a simple Scandinavian style that compliments both modern minimalism and traditional decoration. With a matching apron to wear Christmas Day, the Snowflake textiles bring a relaxed grown up style to the Holidays. Made from a fairly-traded hand-woven cotton the towels and apron are exclusively available from Lakeland.
Snowflake Tea Towels – £7.50
Snowflake Apron - £7.99
Posted by Kate on November 12, 2008 12:03 AM
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I desperately want a set of these fabulous pails! With a modern Scandinavian feel, these Festive Pails have a cheerful charm. The scarlet pails are adorned with a white decorative hearts tied with rustic raffia. Pop one in the kitchen as a fruit bowl, another in the living room filled with nuts or sweets and the third could make a lovely plant pot or make a cheerful centre-piece filled with Christmas crackers and baubles. A durable child-friendly decoration, you could even use these pails again for Valentine’s Day. Both trendy and affordable, these Festive Pails from Lakeland will inspire you to fill them!
Set of 3 Festive Pails - £11.99
Posted by Kate on November 11, 2008 12:06 AM
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Christmas is a time of festive decorations, and there is no reason why you can’t bring festive spirit into your kitchen. This year I’ve found two wreaths that celebrate Christmas with foodie style! The first is Lakeland’s Star Anise Wreath, the star-shaped spice is the perfect choice for Christmas. Both sophisticated and rustic, this wreath has a lovely liquorice-like aroma. Hang it with a gorgeous wide ribbon ('Continue Reading' to see photo) and you’ve a glamorous decoration for both modern and traditional homes. Or if you’re looking for something a bit spicier this Christmas you might find a traditional Chilli Wreath from Papilio more appealing. Popular in South America, the preserved red chillies are bound to a coco-hair wreath making it an eco-friendly choice. Both wreaths bring a unique kitchen theme to the Christmas holidays, and offer a charming change to the normal mass-produced wreaths.
Lakeland’s Star Anise Wreath – £14.99
Traditional Chilli Wreath from ‘Not on the High Street’ - £22.00
Continue reading "Kitchen Wreaths" »
Posted by Kate on November 10, 2008 12:06 AM
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So many people find the holidays stressful, but with some easy early planning you can have everything delivered straight to your door. No more fighting with the Christmas shoppers or braving the cold High Street, let Kitchen Critic highlight the best accessories for your kitchen this Christmas.
Posted by Kate on November 10, 2008 12:02 AM
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I’m not even convinced I like roast chestnuts, but with the weather turning cold and snow forecast, they sound delightful. There is something magical and nostalgic about opening a paper bag of chestnuts, the comforting heat seeping through even thick gloves. A traditional holiday treat, you can now make your own with the Lakeland Chestnut Roasting Pan. The steel pan is pierced with holes around the sides and features a spiral ridge on the base. You can use it on all types of hobs or over hot coals for an authentic street vendor flavour. A brilliant addition to your Bonfire Night Celebrations or as a special Christmas treat, the Lakeland Chestnut Roasting Pan is £11.99.
Chestnut Roasting Pan - £11.99
Posted by Kate on October 30, 2008 12:00 AM
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Want to make your kids a proper home-made cake, but lack the time or skills to decorate it? This Wishosaurus grant you your desire! This purple character will thrill your birthday child and start a tradition you can continue for years. Perfect for both boys and girls, the Wishosaurus can hold up to ten birthday candles in his ridged back. You just need to add a basic layer of icing to your cake before topping it with this cute dinosaur. The Wishosaurus is made of food grade plastic and comes with a clear plastic pedestal you can place under his feet before he clambers upon your cake. A simple way to add magic and excitement to your children's parties even if you're short of time or lack artistic skill, the Wishosaurus is just £4.99 at DrinkStuff.com.
Wishosaurus - £4.99
Wishosaurus @ Amazon.com - $6.99
Continue reading "Wishosaurus by Fred" »
Posted by Kate on October 1, 2008 12:14 AM
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There is an English custom often performed at the celebration of weddings and births. After the celebratory toast, the champagne cork is saved and a slit is cut in the bottom. Then a silver coin minted that year is pressed into the cork, creating a good luck charm and keepsake of the life changing moment. Having grown up with these strange charms hidden away in my Mum's jewellery box, they gained a special magic and excitement. So when I saw this charming Champagne Cruet Set, it's no surprise that they capture that same mystery and allure. Elegant and quirky, each silver-plated shaker has the iconic champagne cork shape. Carefully detailed, each shaker is capped with the traditional crinkled top in which is the holes are drilled. A brilliant gift for those special occasions, the unique Champagne Cruet Set will become a memorable keepsake that will be cherished by family for years. Presented in a gift box with a special postcard and mini whisk gift tag, the Champagne Cruet Set is £26 from NotontheHighStreet.com
Also available at Lakeland for £21.99.
Continue reading "Champagne Cruet Set" »
Posted by Kate on September 19, 2008 12:01 AM
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Nothing says party like cake and ice cream, and now Nordicware have created a clever new Cake Mould that celebrates this party classic! Rather than one large cake, the Nordicware Cake Mould makes six individual cakes each shaped like an ice cream cone. To serve you just need to top with your favourite ice cream. Mint Choc' Chip, Double Fudge or plain ol' Vanilla, the plain cake cones will complement any flavour. To decorate simply sprinkle with hundreds & thousands, chocolate sauce and a bright red cherry. A great activity for children's parties, every guest can create their own special dessert. A brilliant new cake design from Nordicware, the Ice Cream Cone Cake Tin is £23.95 from DeCuisine.co.uk.
Ice Cream Cone Cake Tin - £23.95.
Posted by Kate on August 6, 2008 12:03 AM
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A beautiful accent for sophisticated summer dining, these Floral Vase Place Card Holders bring natural glamour to your table. The elegant glass globes hold delicate blossoms and buds below your your guests' name cards. Featuring a small hole, the globe supports the slim stems of small flowers. Though it only holds a small amount of water, it enough to keep your blooms bright and fresh. A brilliant decoration for dinner parties or even weddings, a set of eight Name Place Vases are £19.80 from Cox & Cox.
Set of 8 Name Place Vases - £19.80
Posted by Kate on July 31, 2008 12:08 AM
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OK, I know it's extravagant and decadent, but there is still something romantic about the Emma Bridgewater Picnic Hamper. Distinctly British, this handmade willow basket opens to reveal an assortment of beautiful picnic treats. Perfect for romantic meals along a picturesque river or merely enjoying the warm summer sun, the Bridgewater Picnic Hamper brings luxury and charm to al fresco dining. Featuring lovely Emma Bridgewater plates and bowls, the creamware dishes are hand decorated with a sprinkling of pink & red hearts. Paired with the crystal cut champagne glasses and your table is set for romance. Each piece is held securely in the basket ensuring everything arrives safely at your destination. A brilliant gift for special anniversaries, the Picnic Hamper encourages you to seize the moment and create memories with that special someone. Available from John Lewis for £200, the Emma Bridgewater Hearts Picnic Hamper includes two plates, two cups, two crystal cut champagne glasses, two cutlery sets, an insulated wine cooler, a condiment set, two napkins, a tablecloth and the ever important waiter’s friend.
Emma Bridgewater Hearts Picnic Hamper - £200
Posted by Kate on July 11, 2008 12:10 AM
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I love getting together with family and friends for parties and celebrations, but it isn't always easy to serve a large group of people. Traditionally people would turn to paper plates, but modern designers have created some clever solutions that are kinder for the environment. The new CaterPlate provides a light weight solution to all your party problems. No more juggling or dropping knives, each CaterPlate provides your guests with cutlery, a plate, two sauce trays and a safe place to hold your wine glass. While at first glance they look like one use items, each of the utensils can be reattached after use. A brilliant balance between disposable and reusable, you can wash the CaterPlate but you also don't need to worry if they get broken. A great addition to your summer barbeques, parties and picnics, the CaterPlate is available in black, clear or orange from Smarter Products.
Pack of 6 CaterPlates - £4.99
Pack of 10 CaterPlates - £7.59
Pack of 48 CaterPlates - £32.99
Continue reading "CaterPlate Disposable Plate Set" »
Posted by Kate on July 10, 2008 12:05 AM
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Enjoying a bit of a retro revival, serving displays like this Revolving Hors D'Oeuvres Set can make a useful addition to your buffet table. Ideal for small nibbles and dips, the revolving tray ensures guests don't have to stretch for their favourites. The six porcelain dishes nest neatly into a wooden lazy susan made of Hevea, and offer a handy flexibility. The dishes can be used individually, and the lazy susan can be used on its own or with your own dishes to create your own look and style. A brilliant way to add a creative touch to your party table, the Revolving Hors D'Oeuvres Set is available from Amazon.co.uk for £18.96.
Revolving Hors D'Oeuvres Set - £28.95.
Posted by Kate on June 12, 2008 12:14 AM
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There's nothing better than gabbing over drinks and nibbles at a summer party, but it can often be a difficult balancing act of glasses and plates. But clever party glasses like these from FabStuff.net solve the problem simply and easily. The hand blown glasses feature a sturdy and stable design and then topped with light-earth coloured bowls. The stoneware bowls not only hold canapés or tapas, but also act as a lid for the glass, reducing the chance of accidental spills. A clever way to protect your home from messy accidents, your guests will love the convenience of these Party Glasses. Available from FabStuff.net, a boxed set of four Glasses and Bowls is an affordable £15 or $29.25 USD.
Set of Four Glasses and Bowls - £15
Posted by Kate on May 23, 2008 12:09 AM
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