Crazy & Co.

Crumble The New Dessert Treat

5 December 2025

Crumble desserts are the unsung heroes of the baking world. They are simple yet incredibly satisfying. With a buttery, crunchy topping and a sweet, juicy filling, they offer a delightful contrast in every bite.

These desserts are versatile, allowing for endless creativity. You can use a variety of fruits, from apples to berries, to create your perfect crumble. The possibilities are as vast as your imagination.

Crumble desserts are easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. They are perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Plus, they can be adapted to suit dietary needs, making them a crowd-pleaser.

A delicious crumble dessert with a golden, crunchy topping and juicy fruit filling

Join us as we explore the world of crumble desserts. Discover tips, tricks, and recipes to elevate your baking game.

The Allure of Crumble: Why This Dessert Is Having a Moment

Crumble desserts have become a beloved choice for many. They carry an irresistible charm with their rustic appeal and timeless taste. More than just a dessert, a crumble represents comfort and nostalgia.

In a world of fancy pastries and intricate cakes, crumbles offer simplicity. They focus on flavor and warmth. Their history dates back to World War II when rationing sparked creative baking solutions.

What makes crumbles stand out is their balance. The mix of crispy topping and soft fruit filling is key. This delightful textural contrast keeps people coming back for more.

Reasons for their popularity:

Easy to make with common ingredients.
Customizable to taste with varied fruits.
Suitable for any occasion, casual or formal.

A beautifully presented apple crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

Crumble desserts are witnessing a revival. Their ability to adapt to various tastes and occasions keeps them fresh and exciting. Embrace the allure of the crumble, and make this classic your new favorite treat!

The Anatomy of a Perfect Crumble Dessert

Creating a perfect crumble dessert relies on balance. The harmony between the fruit filling and the crumble topping defines its success. Each component must shine on its own.

Start with the fruit filling. Choose ripe fruits for the juiciest results. Apples, berries, and peaches work beautifully. Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can deepen the flavor.

The crumble topping should be buttery and crunchy. A hint of sweetness is essential to complement the fruit. Adding nuts or oats provides texture and enhances the experience.

Key elements of a perfect crumble:

Juicy, flavorful fruit filling
Buttery, crunchy topping
A delicate balance of sweetness

Presentation matters too. Individual ramekins can elevate the visual appeal. A beautifully baked crumble can steal the show at any table.

The texture contrast is what truly captivates. The way the topping crumbles with each bite while the filling melts is pure magic. A perfect crumble satisfies not just the palate, but the heart too.

Essential Ingredients for a Show-Stopping Crumble Recipe

A show-stopping crumble begins with the right ingredients. Fresh, juicy fruits are crucial. Their natural sweetness is the foundation of the dessert. Select fruits like apples, berries, or peaches for a burst of flavor.

Your crumble topping benefits from quality staples. Flour, butter, and sugar create the perfect base. These form the crusty, irresistible layer atop the fruit. Including nuts or oats adds texture and elevates complexity.

Ingredients for a memorable crumble:

Fresh fruits (apples, berries, or peaches)
Flour, butter, and sugar
Nuts or oats for added texture

Presentation enhances the experience. Bake in a decorative dish to create a feast for the eyes. This simple touch can turn an ordinary dessert into a stunning creation.

Step-by-Step: The Ultimate Crumble Dessert Recipe

Embark on a culinary journey with this ultimate crumble dessert recipe. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to impress.

Gather Your Ingredients

First, collect all necessary ingredients. Having everything at hand ensures a smooth baking process.

4 cups of your chosen fruit
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or oats

Prepare the Fruit Filling

Wash, peel, and chop your fruits into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in a bowl with a bit of sugar and a pinch of your favorite spice.

Mix the Crumble Topping

In a separate bowl, mix flour, sugar, and butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

by Ivan Pergasi (https://unsplash.com/@crazyivan_ita)

Assemble the Crumble

Place the prepared fruits in a baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the crumble mixture over the top, ensuring full coverage.

Preheat and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crumble for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Let the crumble cool slightly before serving. This allows the topping to firm up and enhances the flavor.

Enjoy with Accompaniments

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

This classic dessert is easy to make and sure to delight everyone. Savor the harmony of textures and flavors with each spoonful.

Mastering the Crumble Topping: Tips and Tricks

The crumble topping is the star of this dessert. Its texture, both crunchy and buttery, is utterly enticing.

Perfecting Texture and Flavor

Achieve the perfect balance by ensuring your butter is chilled. This helps create a crumbly texture rather than a doughy one.

Adding Texture

Incorporate oats or chopped nuts into your mix. This adds an extra layer of crunch and boosts flavor complexity.

Use cold, unsalted butter
Mix ingredients gently to avoid melting butter
Experiment with oats or nuts

Sweetness Matters

Adjust sweetness to your preference. Consider brown sugar for a hint of caramel flavor in your topping.

With these tips, your crumble topping will delightfully complement any fruit base you choose!

Creative Variations: Beyond the Classic Apple Crumble

The world of crumbles offers endless creativity. Step beyond apples to explore an array of scrumptious options.

Consider using juicy berries or ripe peaches for a luscious summer delight. These fruits add vibrant colors and flavors.

Spice things up by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Unexpected herbs like rosemary or thyme can complement certain fruits nicely.

Peach & Blueberry Crumble
Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble with Ginger
Pear & Walnut Crumble with Nutmeg

by Aneta Pawlik (https://unsplash.com/@anetakpawlik)

With these variations, each crumble becomes a unique masterpiece. Customizing your crumble lets your culinary creativity shine!

Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Crumble Experience

Transform your crumble dessert into a luxurious treat with simple serving tweaks. Presentation is key to an unforgettable experience.

Consider serving warm crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold and creamy texture pairs perfectly with the warm dessert.

For a touch of elegance, add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce. A sprig of mint for a pop of color can enhance visual appeal.

Serve with vanilla ice cream
Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce
Garnish with mint sprigs

by Joanna Stołowicz (https://unsplash.com/@joanna_stolowicz)

These easy enhancements create a memorable, indulgent dessert everyone will love. Enjoy your crumble with style and flair!

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating Tips

Crumble desserts can easily be made ahead of time. This flexibility makes them perfect for busy schedules.

Store leftovers in an airtight container. Refrigerate them to keep the crumble fresh and tasty for up to three days.

Reheat individual portions gently in the oven for best results. Microwaving is faster but may lose some crispness.

Make ahead for convenience
Refrigerate in an airtight container for freshness
Reheat in the oven for optimal texture

Crumble FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Curious about crumble ingredients or variations? We’ve got you covered. Check out these common questions and answers.

Can crumble be gluten-free or vegan? Absolutely! With the right swaps, it’s easy to adjust this dessert to fit dietary needs.

Gluten-free crumble: use almond flour or GF oats
Vegan option: replace butter with coconut oil
Storing tips: use an airtight container

Final Crumble Thoughts: Why This Dessert Belongs on Every Table

Crumble desserts offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures. They transform simple ingredients into heartwarming treats.

Their versatility and easy preparation make them a timeless favorite. Whether it’s a family gathering or a special occasion, a crumble effortlessly complements any meal with charm and comfort.

For an extra dose of indulgence, pair a crumble dessert with one of our luxury hot chocolate carts.

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Catering, Event Planning, Food Trucks

Exploring the Sweet World of Indian Desserts

24 June 2025

Indian desserts are a symphony of flavors. They are a delightful blend of tradition, culture, and culinary artistry.

Each sweet treat tells a story. It’s a narrative of regional diversity, festive celebrations, and age-old customs.

But Indian desserts are more than just food. They are a sensory experience, a journey into the heart of India’s rich heritage.

In this article, we’ll explore the sweet world of Indian desserts. We’ll delve into their cultural significance, their variety, and their unique appeal.

For marketing managers and wedding planners, Indian sweets offer a treasure trove of creative possibilities. They can be a unique selling point, a memorable feature at events, or a vibrant part of your content strategy.

So, let’s embark on this flavorful journey. Let’s discover the magic of Indian desserts and how they can add a dash of sweetness to your professional endeavors and personal celebrations.

The Cultural Tapestry of Indian Sweets

Indian sweets are a vibrant thread in the fabric of Indian culture. They play a pivotal role in ceremonies, festivals, and daily life across the country.

Each region of India boasts unique desserts, reflecting its local ingredients and traditions. From the saffron-infused delicacies of the north to the coconut-rich sweets of the south, variety is abundant.

Sweets are woven into Indian festivals and celebrations. They symbolize joy, prosperity, and community spirit. Whether it’s Diwali, Holi, or Eid, desserts are eagerly exchanged as tokens of goodwill and happiness.

The making and sharing of these sweets carry deep cultural significance. Techniques and recipes are often passed down through generations, preserving the legacy of family traditions.

In contemporary times, Indian sweets continue to enchant the world. Their rich flavors and stories captivate audiences globally, reinforcing their timeless appeal and cultural importance.

A Tour of Popular Indian Desserts

Indian desserts offer a delightful journey through rich flavors and textures. Each sweet treat tells its own story.

The vast array of Indian sweets stems from the country’s diverse regions, cultural influences, and ingredients. Every dessert provides an opportunity to experience India’s culinary history.

Here is a list of some popular Indian desserts:

Gulab Jamun
Jalebi
Rasgulla
Kulfi
Barfi

Gulab Jamun is a well-known favorite with a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Jalebi captivates with its intricate spiral and sticky texture. Rasgulla introduces a burst of syrup with its soft and spongy texture.

Kulfi offers a frozen delight, enriched with cardamom and nuts, perfect for cooling the palate. Barfi embodies creamy decadence with its condensed milk base and delightful garnishes.

These popular sweets are not just after-dinner delights; they are symbols of celebration. Biting into these treats evokes comfort and nostalgia for many.

Whether at weddings or festivals, Indian desserts elevate the moment. Their unique profiles make them desirable around the world.

Gulab Jamun: A Classic Favorite

Gulab Jamun wins hearts with its syrupy goodness. Made from milk solids, it’s deep-fried and soaked in rose-flavored syrup.

This dessert, often seen at festivals, exemplifies indulgence. It’s a staple at joyous occasions, serving as a symbol of happiness.

Jalebi: The Spiraled Delight

Jalebi is a feast for the senses with its bold, vibrant color. The spiraled batter is fried to perfection and dipped in syrup.

Crunchy and sticky, it leaves a delightful trace on the fingers. It’s an essential part of street fairs and festive gatherings, loved by all.

Rasgulla: Soft and Spongy Magic

Rasgulla is an East Indian treasure made from chhena (cottage cheese). These spongy balls soak in light syrup, balancing sweetness and texture.

They offer a burst of flavor with every bite. Rasgulla is celebrated in Bengali rituals, often exchanged in friendship and goodwill.

Festive Desserts: Celebrating with Sweets

In India, no celebration feels complete without sweets. They symbolize prosperity and joy.

Festivals such as Diwali and Holi are synonymous with a variety of vibrant desserts. The smell of freshly made sweets fills homes.

Desserts like laddoos and barfis become integral to these celebrations. Their rich flavors bring families together.

The festive desserts reflect cultural diversity and regional pride. They tell stories of tradition and shared joy.

The Art of Making Indian Sweets

Crafting Indian sweets is an art passed down through generations. Each recipe holds secrets.

Traditional techniques require patience and skill. Ingredients like milk, sugar, and ghee form the base.

The magic lies in the spice blend. Cardamom, saffron, and rose water elevate flavors.

The intricate process reflects cultural heritage. Every sweet tells a story of love and passion.

Healthier Twists on Traditional Treats

Today, many seek healthier dessert options. Indian sweets now embrace this trend.

Innovations include sugar-free and vegan versions. These adapt to modern dietary needs.

Healthier options don’t sacrifice taste. Almonds, coconut sugar, and dates offer natural sweetness.

By redefining recipes, traditional sweets find a new audience. A perfect blend of health and heritage.

Fusion and Innovation: The New Wave of Indian Desserts

A delightful transformation is sweeping through Indian desserts. Fusion creations are now stealing the show.

Imagine gulab jamun nestled in a cheesecake. Or jalebi adorned with chocolate drizzle. These are the new wonders.

Innovative chefs are blending east with west. The result is a delicious marriage of flavors.

Fusion desserts captivate taste buds and intrigue curious minds. Their unique appeal attracts a global audience.

Planners: The Food Truck Phenomenon

Wedding planners find Indian sweets an ideal choice for food trucks. They captivate guests seeking unique experiences. Their potential in weddings is outstanding.

Dessert food trucks bring a WOW factor to weddings. Picture guests savoring jalebi fresh off the fryer. That experience is unforgettable and adds a special touch.

Conclusion: The Endless Possibilities of Indian Desserts

Indian desserts offer a world of flavor and creativity. They’re rich in tradition and endlessly adaptable. These sweets hold the power to transform any event or campaign.

From marketing innovation to unforgettable wedding experiences, their potential is vast. Explore them, embrace their heritage, and watch as they captivate all audiences.

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Catering, Food Trucks

The Ultimate Burger and Dessert Pairings

19 May 2025

# The Ultimate Burger and Dessert Pairings

There’s nothing quite like the perfect burger, but have you ever considered elevating your burger experience with a complementary dessert? This is not just about a meal; it’s an event, a celebration of flavors that will leave you and your guests talking for days. Whether you’re a marketing manager looking to create buzz or a wedding planner seeking that unforgettable food truck experience, these ultimate burger and dessert pairings are sure to impress.

Why Pair Burgers and Desserts?

Combining savory burgers with sweet desserts might not be the first culinary adventure that comes to mind, but it’s a pairing that can transform a simple meal into a gourmet experience. The key is to balance flavors and textures, creating a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds and elevates the dining experience to a whole new level.

The Art of Pairing

Pairing food is an art, and when done right, it can enhance the flavors of both dishes. The richness of a gourmet burger can be beautifully offset by a light, sweet dessert. Alternatively, a spicy burger might be complemented by a cool, creamy treat. It’s all about finding the right balance.

Gourmet Burgers: The Star of the Show

Let’s start with the main event: the burger. Gourmet burgers are no longer just about the patty and bun. Today’s creations include a variety of meats, cheeses, and unique toppings that cater to every palate.

Classic Cheeseburger

A classic cheeseburger is an all-time favorite, with a juicy beef patty, melted cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato, and onion. The simplicity of this burger makes it a versatile pairing partner.

Spicy Jalapeño Burger

For those who like a little heat, a spicy jalapeño burger brings the fire with spicy peppers, pepper jack cheese, and a hint of lime.

BBQ Bacon Burger

A BBQ bacon burger combines the smoky flavors of barbecue sauce with crispy bacon and cheddar cheese, offering a robust taste experience.

Veggie Delight

For the non-meat eaters, a veggie burger packed with black beans, quinoa, and a medley of vegetables offers a healthy and delicious option.

Desserts: The Sweet Ending

Now, onto the sweet stuff. The right dessert can complement the flavors of your burger and leave everyone with a satisfying conclusion to their meal.

Vanilla Bean Milkshake

A vanilla bean milkshake is a classic choice that pairs well with almost any burger. Its creamy texture and sweet vanilla flavor provide a refreshing contrast to savory burgers.

Chocolate Lava Cake

For those who crave decadence, a chocolate lava cake with its gooey center is the perfect match for a rich BBQ bacon burger.

Lemon Sorbet

A lemon sorbet is light and refreshing, ideal for cleansing the palate after a spicy jalapeño burger.

Berry Parfait

A berry parfait made with layers of yogurt, fresh berries, and granola offers a delightful, slightly tart option that pairs well with a veggie burger.

Creating the Perfect Pairings

When creating your ultimate burger and dessert pairings, consider the following tips to ensure that each element complements the other:

Balance Flavors

Sweet and Savory: A sweet dessert can balance out a salty or savory burger. For example, pair a bacon-heavy burger with a sweet dessert like a caramel sundae.
Spicy and Cool: Spicy burgers can be tamed with cool, creamy desserts like a mint chocolate chip ice cream.

Match Intensity

Rich with Rich: Pair rich burgers with equally indulgent desserts. A gourmet beef burger topped with foie gras might pair beautifully with a rich chocolate mousse.
Light with Light: A lighter burger, like a turkey or veggie option, pairs well with lighter desserts, such as a lemon tart.

Consider Textures

Crunchy and Soft: A burger with crispy elements, like onion rings, can be paired with a soft dessert like panna cotta.
Smooth and Chunky: A smooth milkshake can contrast nicely with a chunky burger loaded with toppings.

The Wow Factor: Presentation and Service

Presentation matters, especially if you’re trying to impress at an event or create engaging marketing content. Here are some tips to make your burger and dessert pairings stand out:

Visual Appeal

Use vibrant colors and garnishes to make each dish pop. Fresh herbs, edible flowers, or a drizzle of sauce can add to the visual appeal.
Serve desserts in unique containers, such as mason jars or mini skillets, for a trendy touch.

Unique Serving Ideas

For a wedding or special event, consider a food truck that specializes in gourmet burgers and desserts. This not only offers convenience but also provides a fun and interactive dining experience.
Create a “build-your-own” burger and dessert bar, allowing guests to customize their pairings to their liking.

Conclusion: A Match Made in Culinary Heaven

In the world of gourmet dining, burgers and desserts may seem like an unlikely duo, but when paired correctly, they create a symphony of flavors that is sure to delight. Whether you’re planning a marketing event or a wedding, these ultimate burger and dessert pairings will not only satisfy taste buds but also create memorable experiences that your guests will cherish.

So go ahead, embrace the unexpected, and indulge in the perfect pairing of savory and sweet.

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Catering, Equipment, Event Planning, Food Trucks

Strawberries and Cream The British Treat For Your Wedding

11 February 2025

Imagine a wedding where the sweet scent of strawberries mingles with the soft whispers of love. A celebration where the classic British treat of strawberries and cream takes center stage, delighting guests with its simplicity and charm.

This isn’t just a dessert. It’s a nostalgic nod to summer picnics and garden parties, a symbol of British heritage that adds a touch of elegance to your special day.

From dessert carts to food trucks, we’ll explore how this delightful theme can transform your wedding. We’ll offer strawberry dessert ideas that cater to all tastes, ensuring your event is as memorable as it is delicious.

So, ready to add a dash of British charm to your wedding? Let’s dive into the world of strawberries and cream weddings.

A Nostalgic Touch of Elegance

Strawberries and cream bring a timeless elegance that’s perfect for any wedding. This simple yet sophisticated pairing feels like a classy nod to tradition.

Imagine guests savoring fresh strawberries bathed in silky cream. It’s a delightful pause in the celebration, sparking nostalgia and joy.

This theme isn’t just about taste; it’s about the ambiance it creates. It evokes memories of sunny afternoons and garden delights, infusing the day with warmth.

Beyond deliciousness, it adds a cultural touch, reminding everyone of the rich British heritage that inspired your enchanting day.

Dessert Cart Delights: Strawberries and Cream Edition

Imagine guests wandering to a charming dessert cart, vibrant strawberries drawing them in.

Customize your cart with red hues, matching the theme. It’s not just food; it’s an experience.

Sweet, creamy delights await as strawberries mingle with frostings, pastries, or cakes. Each treat tells a story of love and tradition.

This cart will become the heart of your party, inviting conversation and creating sweet memories.

Strawberry Dessert Ideas: From Simple to Extravagant

Embrace the sweetness with a medley of strawberry-inspired delights. Start with simple, classic offerings such as fresh strawberries dipped in cream.

For a touch of luxury, consider layered trifles with sponge cake and strawberry compote. This provides a burst of flavors and textures.

Entice with opulent strawberry pavlovas adorned with whipped cream and mint leaves. They make an exquisite centerpiece.

For those feeling adventurous, create strawberry tarts with cream cheese filling, adding an unexpected twist. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of flavors.

Interactive Fun: Strawberries and Cream Dessert Station

Transform dessert time into an engaging activity. Set up a strawberries and cream station where guests can customize their own treats.

Offer a variety of toppings like crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, and fresh mint. This personal touch ensures a unique dessert experience for everyone.

Engaging and fun, this station becomes a focal point for the reception. It’s a delicious interactive moment.

Thematic Decor: Infusing Your Wedding with Strawberry Charm

Enhance your wedding’s allure by integrating strawberry hues. Think shades of pink and red, evoking ripe strawberries.

Incorporate them into floral arrangements for a cohesive look. Use strawberry-themed centerpieces or elegant table settings.

Consider strawberry-shaped accents or motifs. These small touches bring a delightful harmony to the overall decor.

A Food Truck with Wow Factor: Unique Catering for Your Special Day

Imagine a delightful, eye-catching food truck at your wedding. It’s a conversation starter and a treat. Choose one that specializes in strawberries and cream.

Not only does it offer delicious desserts, but it also enhances the festive vibe. Guests love variety and interactive experiences. This choice guarantees both.

Collaborate with the truck vendor to tailor offerings. Align the menu with your wedding theme. Personalization makes the day feel even more special.

Instagram-Worthy: The Visual Appeal of Strawberries and Cream

Strawberries and cream are a feast for the eyes. Their vibrant colors pop in photos. Guests won’t resist snapping pics.

Presenting them beautifully enhances the visual charm. Think elegant glassware or rustic wooden boards. Such detail transforms simple desserts into show-stoppers.

Leverage this visual appeal for social media. Encourage guests to share their pictures. Your wedding will be the talk of Instagram!

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Fun Story

St Valentines Day Customs Around The World

14 February 2021

14th February, St Valentines day, the day for lovers, young and old, chocolate and roses and cheesy cards.

Reputed to have begun in ancient Rome around 496AD with the festival of Lupercalia held in mid February. Girls and boys drew names from a box and would become girlfriend and boyfriend for the duration of the festival.

Of course the church hijacked it later on, and used it to celebrate St Valentine. A Roman Priest executed for refusing to deny Christ and associated with courtly love.

Being UK based we usually think of a dozen red roses and chocolates or champagne. Along with a card extolling our feelings of love. But how do other countries celebrate it?

Japan

Being Japanese, they tend to complicate it as usual. On the 14th girls give chocolates. However they do this in two ways. The first is called giri-choco and are pre made chocolates. These will be given to friends, family, perhaps work colleagues. Men they don’t love romantically. The second type are Honmei-choco, being either more expensive, or traditionally hand made by the girl. Given to their partners, boyfriends, lovers etc.

Traditionally men would only accept these from girl they were interested in.

On 14th March the menfolk would return the gesture three fold on what is called white day.

South Korea

The south Koreans, follow pretty much the same pattern as the Japanese. However, on the month after white day, they have an additional celebration called Black day. This is for all those unfortunate enough not to have received gifts on the other days. They get together and eat black noodles.

Philippines

The Filipino’s celebrate in much the same ways as in the West. However, there is also an added incentive for lovers on the 14th. Many municipalities provide free weddings on the day. The cakes, flowers, venue, banquet and even the rings are all provided free of charge. This leads to mass weddings around the country on St Valentines day.

Norway

Or Valentinsdag in Norwegian. Much like the UK, with meals, roses, lingerie and so on. They do have one old belief that birds mated on this day to bear their offspring. And it’s now believed that seeing birds mate is a sign of true love. TBH I don’t think I have ever seen birds mating. In fact I am not sure I would recognise what they were doing if I did, assuming the tradition refers to the feathered kind.

Sweden

Alla hjärtans dag, or All Hearts Day as our Swedish cousins refer to it. They prefer jellied candies and pastries to our traditional chocolates. It has only been an occasion in Sweden since the 60’s, so it isn’t as widely celebrated as in other countries.

Denmark

Our Danish friends have a tradition called Gækkebreve , or Snowdrop letter. They send the object of the affection a letter, but sign it with a series of dots for their name. The receiver must try and work out who it is from, and if they get it correct are rewarded with an Easter egg on Easter Sunday.

France

Hmm, an unusual custom and not exactly the height of chivalry. French singletons would call out to each other across the street to be paired up. But if the mane didn’t quite fancy the woman he was allowed to reject her and try again. The sadly outed woman would gather together to burn photos and other reminders of the suitors who had given them the thumbs down, as a sort of group ‘therapy’. Eventually the government banned the practise. No doubt some woman felt better burning the real item rather than the photo.

This early form of speed dating was christened “une loterie d’amour”, the lottery of love.

Wales

The Welsh evidentially, don’t traditionally go in for St Valentine. Their nearest version is Saint Dwynwen’s day on 25th January. Here the men present a gift of a wooden spoon to their love interest. Various symbols and patterns with special meanings were carved into the spoon. A strange custom when presenting a wooden spoon elsewhere usually has negative connotations.

Argentina

Those randy Latinos can’t manage with just the one day. They drag it out a whole week, starting on 13th and running to the 20th, sweetness week encourages the swapping of kisses for candy. The week ends with friendship day so no one is left out.

South Africa

The Springboks mirror the UK with a lot of the Valentine celebrations. However they do also follow in the footsteps of the original Roman celebration by pinning the names of their lovers on to their sleeves. Luckily they don’t follow the original rules to closely, as the Romans would sacrifice goats, then run through the streets naked, whipping the women folk to increase their fertility.

Most of the countries around the world have adopted the Western celebration of St Valentines day, with flower giving, chocolate and other gifts. Some Islamic countries are rather hostile to the holiday, and some outright ban it.

If you want a Valentine treat for your staff, a party or even as a private service for your loved one, many of our treats such as Churros, Valentine crepes, doughnuts can be made with a pink dough to suit the occasion, or we can supply melted pink chocolate as a topping.

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