Darina Allen: My top basic baking tips and three of my favourite recipes to try

Baking is an art form and a way to show off your talent

I certainly don’t know a better way to bring a smile to someone’s face than to present them with one of your homemade cakes or a little packet of crunchy cookies

It is definitely time for a column on baking…it’s been far too long but I’ve been prompted by World Baking Day on May 18 to share a few of my favourite confections.

For some, baking isn’t just a culinary activity, it’s an art form and a perfect way to show off your artistic talent. There are countless Instagram and podcasts celebrating bakers’ creativity. Seems to be no end to the possibilities, from riffs on brownies and cookies, pies, buns and scones and cakes, roulades.… Can you think of a more fun way to unwind, polish up your skills and spread joy.