Natasha White*, a long-time family friend, has gained a reputation as a sterling cook and baker. Lately she’s been sharing some of her easy-to-follow recipes on Facebook, and she’s kindly allowed me to pilfer this one. It’s perfect to get you in the Christmas mood.

Natasha’s Easy-peasy Gingerbread House Recipe

Turn the oven to 180c/350f/gas 4
300g/11oz butter
125g/4 and half oz caster sugar
same again of dark brown soft sugar
225g/8 oz golden syrup
725g/1 lb 9 oz plain flour
2 teasp bicarb of soda
3 teasp ginger
1 teasp cinnamon

Melt butter, sugars, and syrup in a pot. Sift in dry ingredients. Mix to a dough. Wrap in cling film and cool in the fridge for 30 mins. Roll, cut shape, bake for about 12 mins (it firms up as it cools) and stick the lot together with icing… Decorate with food colouring and edible marzipan and have fun!

Natasha used wooden trusses to support the roof – the only inedible part of the house.

Readers, Natasha would like to giving this gingerbread wonder to a worthwhile charity. But I suspect that food for sale has to be prepared in a HAACP approved kitchen. Do any of you know if (possibly overzealous) food regulations prevent her from making this donation?

*ably assisted by architectural consultant, roofer, and painter-decorator John Murphy.