Savoury bakes

These savoury biscuits couldn’t be easier to make and are a wonderfully moreish nibble to serve with drinks in the garden. A homemade sweet- sharp red pepper relish offsets the rich cheese flavour, but you can use tomato chutney or chilli jam instead, for ease.

Scrumptiously flaky twirls of (ready-made) croissant dough, filled with cheese and ham and baked in a muffin tin. What’s not to love?

Also known as Brummie Breakfast Cakes, the dough is similar to a savoury scone (although without any egg), but the additions of tomato ketchup and Worcestershire sauce make the distinction. Serve simply buttered, or as part of a cooked breakfast; they’re also good for picnics and pack-ups, or with soup

Prep ahead for picnic perfection; if you're not a fan of heat, you could replace the chilli jam with some pickle instead

This cheese-stuffed bread, named after an active volcano on the Italian island of Stromboli, is at its best when it literally erupts with ingredients

This American-style (mildly) spicy cheddar cornbread is a quick and easy side that’s perfect served with soup, chilli con carne, fried chicken or even just for mopping up sauce

The essence of the East End, these simple meat pies have a suet crust and shortcrust lid and are served with plain mash and lots of liquor. Chilli vinegar is the key finishing touch.

A cheat’s version of a tarte tatin, these onion tarts take hardly any time to make and don’t compromise on rich, buttery flavour

The essence of Christmas dinner wrapped in a flaky pastry jacket. Enjoy with a tipple as you decorate your tree