Flavoured honey
Makes 2 jars
Preparation and cooking time 20 minutes, plus standing time

• 750g honey
• 15ml grated orange rind
• 15ml grated lemon rind
• 1 stick of cinnamon (optional)

1 Heat the honey in a saucepan over a low heat. Add the citrus zest and cinnamon stick, if using. Simmer gently for 10 minutes, then remove from the heat and set aside to cool for two hours.

2 Strain the honey into sterilised bottles or jars, then seal and label.

3 Use on scones, on baked fruit or pancakes, as an ingredient in baking or added to roast or grilled chicken or pork dishes.

Packaging Photocopy the bee label below onto sturdy paper. Cut out the label and punch a hole in the centre of the top side. Insert a metal eyelet using an eyelet setting tool, if you have one.  Thread a piece of ribbon or string through the eyelet and tie the label to the neck of the jar. Tie a honey wand to the jar to complete.

Bee label

Homemade honeycomb
Makes 4-6 small bags
Preparation and cooking time 10 minutes

• 60ml honey
• 30ml golden syrup
• 250ml (210g) sugar
• 15ml bicarbonate of soda, sifted

1 Spray a large piece of tinfoil with some cooking spray. Fold the edges up slightly.

2 Heat the honey, syrup and sugar in a large, heavy-based saucepan. Stir occasionally until the sugar has dissolved. Once it has dissolved, increase the heat and simmer without stirring. Do not let it boil vigorously, it needs only to simmer gently. Simmer until it reaches hard crack stage (when a drop of syrup in cold water breaks easily) or 149 to 154°C on a sugar thermometer.

3 Remove from the heat and add the bicarbonate of soda. The mixture will begin to foam. Pour immediately onto the prepared foil. Do not spread the mixture. Set aside to harden for about 30 minutes. Keep sealed in an airtight container. Break into rough pieces and package.

Packaging Place the honeycomb pieces into a cellophane packet and tie with a piece of ribbon to close.

Good idea
Package the honeycomb in an airtight container or cellophane packet to prevent it from becoming sticky.

Text and image: Ideas magazine