In the garden, hellebores and snowdrop bulbs are emerging through the wintry ground, while beyond, in borrowed views, dangling catkins and blossom-laden blackthorn branches sway in the hedgerows. Thes

Bulbs planted in autumn come to life now and deliver vibrant bursts of colour – a joy to see after the dark winter months. Daffodils (more on those overleaf) and tulips are enduring symbols of spring

■ Makes 16 ■ Prep 1 hr plus cooling and 10 mins chilling ■ Cook 12 mins 100g unsalted butter, softened175g caster sugar, plus extrafor sprinkling1 egg1 tsp vanilla paste200g plain flour, plus extrafor

Words by Miranda Gore Browne Miranda is a ...

Time to wake up! Olga Grieves is getting busy as everything is springing to life

Celebrate the new season’s offerings with these most delightful recipes