One of the best things about Christmas? The food. Yes, we’re all a little more glutenous over the festive period but with all the social gatherings, and even on those quiet nights in, those treats do make it so much more memorable, plus it’s one of the ways we can lavish some love on our friends and family. We also want it to be quite effortless. That’s where snack stations can be your new best friend. You can create a little area, in the kitchen, dining room or living room, wherever you’re hosting your indulgent night in, that little ones, you, or your guests can go and help themselves. Here are some ideas:
Make your own popcorn mix
These are increasing in popularity and the perfect movie night treat. Popcorn stations are especially good for those that have ‘arguments’ over their preferred flavour of popcorn – sweet, salty, plain, toffee, cheese, there are never ending options! This allows everyone to tailor their mix according to their own tastes, or you could create special mixes tailored to the movie you’re watching instead.
Ideally, you want to make your own popcorn – which is actually quite easy; you add kernels into a saucepan with warmed vegetable oil, cover with a lid and let the kernels pop, giving the saucepan a shake every now and then. Or, you could start with a pre-made (or microwavable) plain flavour, or buy pre-made salty and sweet and offer both as a selection. Then, alongside the popcorn, offer sauces, like toffee or chocolate, and toppings such as M&Ms, jelly beans, crushed up candy cane (for a festive twist), pretzels, gummies – and anything else you can think of. Supply small bowls and let everyone create something truly unique – and delicious.
Hot chocolate (or toddy) stations
For those board game (and movie) nights or when you want something after a cold winter’s walk, hot chocolate is a must. It’s a Christmas staple. But some of the fun can be in making, and tailoring it. Another popular trend at the moment, hot chocolate stations allows everyone to make a masterful creation of their own design.
Prepare the toppings first: whipped cream, mini marshmallows, mini biscuits, candy canes, chopped hazelnuts, wafer straws, chocolate sauce; whatever takes your (or their) fancy – for adults, you could have mini bottles of baileys or whiskey to make it ‘adult’. Then make the mugs of hot chocolate. Once prepared – allowing space to add any toppings, let everyone prepare their own bespoke drink. The remaining snacks will make for the perfect movie or treat to accompany.
Of course, with hot drinks there will be a need for some adult supervision, especially with younger ones.
Christmas charcuterie platters
You’ll want some savoury options in your armour too. A classic charcuterie board is always a hit. There are ways to give it a Christmassy twist; from the way you arrange the board to the items you put on it. Here is just some inspiration.
Candy cane caprese board
For the main focal point, arrange mozzarella and tomato slices in the shape of a candy cane. In its surrounds, you could place the usual items you’d find on a charcuterie board; a rosette of parma ham, olives, crostini bread slices etc.
Christmas tree board
This idea encompasses the more traditional items on a charcuterie board, arranged in a Christmas tree. Starting with a wide base and ending with a narrow top, essentially each section will be dedicated to a specific food item you’d find on a charcuterie board; crackers, dried meats, hams, cheeses, olives, dried tomatoes, grapes etc.. For the star on top, use a cookie cutter on a small block of cheddar, or brie for the finishing touch.
Charcuterie wreath
Another festive twist on the classic charcuterie board is the Christmas wreath.
Create a circular bed with some rocket or preferred salad leaf and then carefully layer your food items on top. Small cubes work best – and is a good idea for a finger-food/picky buffet. Alternatively, you could create small skewers of your charcuterie items which can make eating from the wreath a little easier.
Of course there are more elaborate designs you could do but often, simple is better- especially when it comes to the preparations!
Featured image: pixelshot, Canva
