Cakes & bakes with juliet sear

They all started out on different paths – from sales offices to science labs – but each of these professional bakers found purpose and joy in baking. Here, they tell Jill Foster why it has become a passion that continues to nourish their souls

INGREDIENTS 100g sourdough starter 380ml warm water 1 tbsp olive oil 2 tsp salt 500g strong white bread flour TOPPINGS 2-3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 3-4 ripe plums, stones removed and cut into quart

SERVES 8 | PREP 10 MINS PLUS COOLING | COOK 20 MINS | EASY 10g butter, softened, for brushing200g plain flour, plus extrafor dusting100g polenta1½ tsp baking powder200g caster sugar1 large orange, zes

By The Happy Pear (thehappypear.ie) Serves 6-8 | Prep 15 mins | Cook 20 mins 1 sheet of shop-bought puff pastry, such as Jus Rol4 tbsp The Happy Pear’s Lovely Basil Pesto2 tbsp The Happy Pear’s Sun-dr

Whether it’s festive nibbles with the neighbours or a full-scale NYE party, these drinks and canapés are sure to please all

It’s what everyone’s been waiting for… sensational roasts and vegetarian showstoppers arriving at the table with a flourish