Stop what you’re doing. Probably the loveliest, most indulgent book of 2012 was published today. Pippa Middleton’s Celebrate: A Year of British Festivities for Families and Friends is packed with party ideas, recipes, games and tips from she-who-has-an-enviable-bottom. The photography is beautiful, with snaps of Pippa and her friends in sparkly frocks in the New Year’s Eve section make you wish you were mates with her.
There’s a great mix of stuff for kids (Pumpkin Bowling and Hallowe’en crafts) practical stuff for parents (a timeline for organising a children’s party) and grown up stuff (an Espresso Martini recipe). I imagine myself leafing through this book, all wrapped up in a cashmere blanket by the fire, planning a year’s worth of socialising and fun with the toddler and her friends. (In reality, it’s highly likely I’ll do none of the things Pippa and her friends do in this book, but you’ve got to dream, right?) Here’s my favourite recipe from the book – perfect for Bonfire Night – and so quick and easy, even I might give it a go…
Pippa Middleton’s Toffee Vodka Recipe
“One shot of this really delicious (and strong) vodka will make you want another! Pour a little vodka out of a 35cl bottle and then add a 50g tube of smashed butter toffees. Leave the vodka overnight, or for at least 8 hours. Speed up the process by putting the sealed bottle in the dishwasher on a hot cycle. When done, the toffees will have dissolved. Keep in the fridge and shake before serving. Try using chocolate bars such as Mars or After Eights for different flavours.”
Can’t help myself, I’ll have to have a copy of this…and of course a cashmere blanket to go with