Sam Dixon

Sam Dixon · German Baking

A classic made vegan, you can bake the cake up to 2 weeks in advance and store undecorated and well wrapped in an airtight container for up to 1 week, during which time you can feed it with extra rum or brandy every now and then, depending on how boozy you want it, up until at least a couple of days before icing so that the surface is dry. It's best to decorate it the day before serving so that the icing is thoroughly set. A Very Vegan Christmas by Sam Dixon is published by Hamlyn, £16.99, www.octopusbooks.co.uk.

Sam Dixon · German Baking

If you have leftover mincemeat or just a jar hanging around, this is a nice way to jazz up pancakes — a perfect Christmas Day breakfast treat. They can be served with maple syrup or a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkling of sugar, or try them with vegan soured cream. A Very Vegan Christmas by Sam Dixon is published by Hamlyn, £16.99, www.octopusbooks.co.uk.