Delia makes a quick mincemeat Christmas cake.

Delia deals with Christmas desserts, while Alice King advises on the best wines to go with them.

Delia Smith offers advice on a selection from mail order specialists and traditional Christmas food. Alice King helps to choose red wine

Delia offers inspiration for party hosts for drinks and canapés, main dishes like roast goose with prunes and beef in port, and puddings including champagne jellies.

Delia offers dishes for vegetarians like parsnip roulade with sage and onion stuffing, plus ideas for decorating Christmas cakes and making chocolate truffles.

Delia chronicles the final hours leading up to serving Christmas lunch, with a detailed plan of action to avoid last minute panics.