Advent Recipes and crafts for the countdown to Christmas

The festive season can be a busy time but Advent is here to slow things down with mindful crafting and recipes, designed to soothe the soul. Authors Kerstin and Laura avoid the conventional Christmas kitsch you see everywhere around the winter months, focusing instead on magical projects that will bring authentic joy and make you feel truly festive.

Slow down with projects such as advent candles, table garlands, gift wrapping, watercolour Christmas cards, place cards and door wreaths.

The recipes are designed for you, me and us. In the 'For Me' section, choose from winter warmers such as Roasted pear with honey and rosemary, Hot winter smoothie and French pancakes with plum compote. In 'For You', embrace that sweet tooth with Peanut brittle, Orange & cinnamon syrup, Caramelised turmeric walnuts and White cinnamon & almond crackles. Finally in 'For Us', cook up a storm with those recipes that will sum up the winter months, from Mushroom wellington with chestnut cream, Creamy cauliflower and almond soup, Lentil shepherd's pie with sweet potato and Pomegranate and gin punch.

Slow down, spend time with loved ones and make your home feel truly festive with Advent.