Michelle Darmody bakes the best festive treats

THIS year I decided to steer away from the classics like pudding and mince pies.

Most people will have their mince and other traditional bits and pieces made at this stage and the flavours will be nicely blending together, ready for Christmas Day. Instead, I have chosen five cakes and desserts that will help brighten up your Christmas table.

The coconut cake is a good alternative to a traditional fruit cake as it can be decorated in a similar white fashion, but when you cut into it you get sticky layers of coconut sponge with nice sweet jam. I love the look of bundt cakes. This recipe has a nice comforting winter feel to it. I love the brandy soaked raisins throughout but if you prefer you can use another flavour instead, Pedro Ximenez sherry is also wonderful or orange juice would also work.