Christmas is coming! It’s that wonderful time of year once again which brings people together. Of course, one of the most important elements of the Christmas season is the seasonal food. Celebrations centre on food and Christmas is no different – traditional turkey, Christmas pudding and mince pies are just a few delicacies which come to mind.

As a symbol of luxury and decadence, cheese hampers make a great Christmas gift. Cheese is well known as a sumptuous comfort food and can also be used in a variety of Christmas dishes. Read on for some great ideas for cheesy recipes for the festive season – and no, we don’t mean cheap or nasty recipes…just pure cheesy goodness!

Cheese fondue

This classic Alpine delicacy is the perfect winter indulgence. If you don’t have a fondue pot, you can boil a pan of water and place a bowl over it for the same effect. There are a few different fondue recipes to follow but we love Jamie Oliver’s easy cheese fondue which uses three different cheeses, shallots, cider and herbs. It’s perfect as a starter or to enjoy with a few drinks – fondue is as its best when it’s warm and gooey.

Chocolate and orange cheesecake

If you’re looking for an alternative dessert for Christmas day then this could be a winner. Combining cream cheese, Cointreau and orange chocolate, this is one of the tastiest cheesecakes we’ve ever tried. Make it the day before the festive party and serve straight from the fridge.

Cheese pastries

Puff pastry and cheese go together like a horse and carriage, and these cheese pastries are so easy to make. Simply use a ready-made roll of puff pastry, cut into shapes and bake in the oven with your favourite cheese grated and sprinkled on top. Organic cheddar is our top choice but any grated cheese you have in the fridge will do. Make the treats even more festive by using shape cutters such as stars and Christmas trees.

Mulled wine brie

Baked brie is the perfect winter warmer, and one way to mix it up is with some festive flavours. There are many ways to top brie but at Christmas it has to be with a mulled wine chutney. Bake the brie as normal, putting some slits in the top, while you warm up the wine and the chutney together in a pan (great chutney flavours include apple, beetroot and red onion). Once the cheese is perfectly melted, spread the mulled wine chutney on top and serve with your chosen savoury snack to dip.

Can you think of any more delicious cheese recipes for the festive period?