Michelle Darmody: Quick and easy jam hearts

Plus a tasty cheesecake you can share with the whole family

If I am really honest with myself I think I prefer Pancake Tuesday to Valentine’s Day. It is an excuse to eat pancakes three times in one day. I usually make the batter the evening before and keep it in the fridge overnight, as it often yields a better end result when the flour, eggs and milk have had time to blend. Making the batter ahead of time will not stop the ‘first pancake syndrome’ though; the first one never works out.

Lemon and sugar were the most popular pancake toppings in Ireland for years, maybe a with a smear of jam added as well. Nowadays pancakes come stuffed with many delicious combinations, both sweet and savoury. Yoghurt and berry compôte is good for breakfast and some spiced mince and melted cheese for later in the day.