Severn Bites Breadmaking Classes

A great chance to support Ukraine and learn to bake bread!

To support Aid for Ukraine, I am offering one place on the Beginners Breadmaking Course on Slimbridge Gloucestershire from 1:30 pm. Usually £95 per person a minimum donation of £50 (of course more would be welcome) will secure your place. Please pass message on. DM me for info or follow link in bio to contact form

Perfect Poolish. Overnight poolish, no 1 flour with a touch of stoneground flour.

I’ve finally sat down to write a proper roundup of what inspired me (and what definitely didn’t!) in 2025.

From the joy of harvesting 80 apricots to the absolute frustration of "untested" recipes that just don't work, it’s been a busy year in the Severn Bites kitchen. I’ve also shared some of my favourite newsletters and podcasts that provide a bit of nourishment for the soul when the oven is off.

I’d love to know—did you try any kitchen experiments this year that didn't quite hit the mark? (Looking at you, Air Fryer!)

Read the full post here: https://severnbites.com/2026/01/10/flour-ink-and-inspiration-my-2025-bakers-round-up/

Talented Grandaughter took over decorating duties! Have a wonderful Christmas!

Talking to others about childhood food memories, I mentioned rosehip syrup on rice pudding. No, most of them said it was jam! I am sure that’s what we had in Surrey. Perhaps a local thing? .

I gathered wild rose hips and created some beautiful thick syrup which is sweet with a delicate flavour.

Beautiful Bramley apples used in this Apple Cinnamon bun recipe. My usual tangzhong sweet dough with ‘stilling recipe slightly adapted .
Peel and chop about 250 gr apples.
Add to pan with 50gr sugar, 30 gr cornflour, 5 gr cinnamon and 15 ml lemon juice. Cook low until apple releases its moisture then cook until thickened. (I added a little water too). Cool completely before spreading onto dough and rolling up.
Buns weighed at 60gr

What is it like to judge at the Great Taste Awards?

Judging at the Great Taste Awards What is it like to be one of the judges for the Great Taste Awards?

What is like to judge at the Great Taste Awards ? Fabulous of course. Discover my favourites this year.

Judging at the Great Taste Awards What is it like to be one of the judges for the Great Taste Awards?