Babies and Biscuits

29 September 2015

Any moment now my friend is about to have a baby which means I have been obsessed with picking something perfect to surprise her with once her little person is here.

When I had my first baby an amazing friend gave me a a massive jar of stewed apples and a tub of greek yoghurt. When it was handed over it didn’t really seem like much, but I hoed into that jar like a woman possessed. I received a bazillion other gifts, but that is the one I remember. The sweet apples needed no preparing and I didn’t even need to chew! There’s something about eating a meal someone else has taken the time to prepare for you, no matter how simple, it makes you feel loved and cared for when you need it most.

I decided I would make some food for my friend. I have been making things now and then when I have the time. Or I make a little extra and wrap it up all ready to go. Today I made mandarin shortbread and because it is such a super simple recipe I made some extras for my buddy.

There is no greater gift to give a new mum than one less thing to do. And baked treats.

MANDARIN SHORTBREAD

WHAT YOU NEED

• 125g/4oz butter
• 55g/2oz caster sugar, plus extra to finish
• 180g/6oz plain flour
• zest of 3 mandarins

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO

1. Heat the oven to 190˚C / 375˚F / Gas 5.
2. Beat butter and the sugar together until fluffy.
3. Stir in the flour and mandarin zest until combined well.
4. Pop on to a lightly floured bench and roll out until 1cm thick. (if dough is sticking to the rolling pin, place some baking paper over the dough).
5. Cut into whatever shape you like place onto a lined baking tray.
6. Sprinkle with caster sugar and prick with a fork to make pretty dots, if you like.
7. Chill in the fridge for 20 minutes.
8. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until pale golden-brown.
9. Cool on a wire rack.