Rev Kate Bottley, Celebrity Masterchef semi-finalist, Songs of Praise presenter and Gogglebox star, has shared a 'Christingle' cake recipe on behalf of The Children's Society.
The Anglican vicar is hoping to inspire some festive fundraising with her cake made from orange vanilla sponge, marmalade and fondant icing, described as the perfect cake to enjoy throughout the festive season – whether at a Christingle service, a family party, or even as a fresh alternative to a traditional cake on Christmas Day. Her recipe is available for free on The Children's Society's website, but she is asking anyone baking it to make a Christmas donation to the charity's work to support vulnerable children and young people.
She said: 'I absolutely loved making this Christingle Cake. It's a real showstopper! Even a beginner would find it easy to make and I think it is a very welcome addition to any festive celebration.'
Christingle is a festive celebration often popular with children and revolves around the lighting of Christingles – oranges decorated with a candle, red ribbon, dried fruits and sweets on cocktail sticks. These items highlight different parts of the Christian story and signify light and hope.
The Children's Society brought the Christingle tradition to the UK nearly half a century ago and since then its events have been raising millions of pounds for the charity's work with vulnerable children and young people each year.
Kate said: 'Christingle is one of my all-time favourite services in church as it's so magical and exciting and also extremely inclusive. The whole community comes together to enjoy the event and it's wonderful that so many people give generously to help give vulnerable young people the promise of a brighter future at Christmas time.'
Kate Bottley's Christingle Cake recipe is available here.
