Custard tarts with a fennel-seed twist

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

Now is the perfect time to prepare for the feasting ahead with these treats bursting with seasonal flavours

Get the mixing bowls out for traditional cakes and bakes that will fill your home with warming aromas as they cook

Happiness is a perfect pudding made with simple ingredients and a winning recipe, say the founders of Edinburgh bakery Twelve Triangles. Here, they share some of their favourite sweet treats

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

A good mushroom pie should have rich flavour and perfectly buttery pastry. For the flakiest crust, freeze the butter and grate it into the dry ingredients. A variety of fresh mushrooms makes the filli