Mary Berrys 7 Christmas Prepare Ahead Recipes

As the festive season approaches, many of us are eager to get ahead with our holiday preparations. Whether you're hosting a large gathering or simply want to enjoy a stress-free Christmas with loved ones, preparing ahead can make all the difference. That's why we're sharing Mary Berry's 7 Christmas Prepare Ahead Recipes to help you get a head start on your holiday cooking.

Mary Berry, the renowned British chef and television presenter, is known for her expertise in creating delicious and easy-to-follow recipes. Her prepare-ahead approach is perfect for busy home cooks who want to enjoy a wonderful Christmas without the last-minute stress. So, let's dive into these fantastic recipes and start preparing for a memorable holiday season!

Why Prepare Ahead?

Preparing ahead is an excellent way to reduce stress and enjoy a more relaxed Christmas. By making some dishes in advance, you can free up time on the big day to focus on other things, like spending quality time with family and friends. Plus, many Christmas recipes can be made ahead and frozen, which helps to reduce food waste and saves you money.

Mary Berry's 7 Christmas Prepare Ahead Recipes

1. Mary Berry's Prepare-Ahead Turkey Gravy

Mary Berry's Prepare-Ahead Turkey Gravy is a game-changer for any Christmas dinner. This recipe makes about 1 liter of delicious gravy, which can be made up to 2 months in advance and frozen.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 liter turkey stock
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons port wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add the stock, whisking continuously.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Let cool, then freeze for up to 2 months.

2. Mary Berry's Cranberry and Orange Relish

This tangy and flavorful relish is perfect for accompanying your Christmas turkey. Mary Berry's Cranberry and Orange Relish can be made up to 2 weeks in advance and stored in the fridge.

Ingredients:

• 250g fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 large orange, peeled and chopped
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine the cranberries, orange, sugar, ginger, and orange juice.
2. Process until coarsely chopped.
3. Stir in the chopped mint.
4. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

3. Mary Berry's Prepare-Ahead Mince Pies

Mary Berry's Prepare-Ahead Mince Pies are a classic Christmas treat. These delicious pies can be made up to 3 months in advance and frozen.

Ingredients:

• 1 package puff pastry, thawed
• 1 cup mincemeat
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spoon the mincemeat onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
4. Brush the edges with the beaten egg.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the mincemeat and press the edges to seal.
6. Use a knife or pastry brush to create a decorative edge.
7. Brush the tops with the milk and sprinkle with sugar.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

4. Mary Berry's Prepare-Ahead Christmas Cake

Mary Berry's Prepare-Ahead Christmas Cake is a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday gathering. This moist and flavorful cake can be made up to 3 months in advance and fed with brandy or other liquor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons mixed spice
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (120g) dried fruit
• 1 cup (120g) chopped nuts
• 2 tablespoons brandy or other liquor (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 275°F (140°C).
2. Grease and flour a 10-inch (25cm) tube pan.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the mixed spice, baking powder, and salt.
5. Stir in the dried fruit and nuts.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
9. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Feed the cake with brandy or other liquor every week for up to 3 months.

5. Mary Berry's Prepare-Ahead Brussels Sprouts with Chestnuts and Sage

Mary Berry's Prepare-Ahead Brussels Sprouts with Chestnuts and Sage is a delicious and easy side dish. This recipe can be made up to 2 days in advance and refrigerated.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1/2 cup (60g) cooked and peeled chestnuts
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts, chestnuts, butter, garlic, and sage.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
4. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.

6. Mary Berry's Prepare-Ahead Sweet Potato Mash

Mary Berry's Prepare-Ahead Sweet Potato Mash is a delicious and comforting side dish. This recipe can be made up to 2 days in advance and refrigerated.

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender.
2. Drain and mash with the butter, heavy cream, and brown sugar.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
5. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and creamy.

7. Mary Berry's Prepare-Ahead Chocolate Yule Log

Mary Berry's Prepare-Ahead Chocolate Yule Log is a show-stopping dessert for any holiday gathering. This recipe can be made up to 2 weeks in advance and frozen.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (250g) confectioners' sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (120g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (120g) semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Grease and flour a 10x15-inch (25x38cm) jelly roll pan.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt.
6. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
7. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
11. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once cool, spread the melted chocolate over the top of the cake.
13. Roll the cake into a log shape and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
14. Slice and serve.

We hope you've enjoyed Mary Berry's 7 Christmas Prepare Ahead Recipes! With these delicious and easy-to-make dishes, you'll be well on your way to a stress-free and enjoyable holiday season. Remember to prepare ahead, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance.

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