Upper crust bakes

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 delicious blend of Cheddar, Emmental and white wine makes this a melty (yet suitably spooky) delight for your Halloween party – or any autumn gathering. Serve with cherry tomato-topped nachos for a

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

■ Serves 4 ■ Prep 30 mins ■ Cook 50 mins 4 large field mushrooms4 tbsp olive oil1 garlic clove, chopped400g spinach leavesflour, for dusting1 tbsp thyme leaves500g block all-butter puff pastry140g sti

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

Often, it’s the supporting roles that command the most attention – like these glorious starters, sides and sauces