As the sun shines bright on May Day, we gather with friends and family to celebrate the magic of Beltane. The air is filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and our tables are spread with a bounty of delicious treats. In this special issue, we’re sharing 18 enchanting recipes that capture the essence of this festive season. From sweet pastries and savory breads to refreshing drinks and decadent desserts, these magical morsels are sure to delight your taste buds and bring joy to your Beltane celebration.
Honey Glazed Beltane Bannock
A sweet and sticky twist on the traditional Scottish bannock, this honey glazed Beltane Bannock is perfect for a special occasion or as a treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, melted butter, and beaten egg.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently for 2-3 minutes.
6. Shape into desired form (e.g. circle or rectangle).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spring Herb and Cheese Scones
Spring Herb and Cheese Scones: A refreshing twist on traditional scones, these Spring Herb and Cheese Scones are perfect for a springtime brunch or snack. With the brightness of fresh herbs and the richness of melted cheese, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in grated cheese, parsley, and dill.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and beaten egg. Pour into dry ingredients and stir until dough forms.
5. Turn dough onto floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Pat into circles about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges or use biscuit cutter for desired shape.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each scone.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Yield: 12-15 scones
Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Beltane Bread
As the sun rises on Beltane, celebrate the fertility of the earth with a warm, aromatic loaf that combines the pungency of roasted garlic with the herbaceousness of rosemary. This recipe yields a crusty, flavorful bread perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 head of garlic, roasted (see note)
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, roasted garlic, and rosemary to the mixture; stir until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour, salt, and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead on floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth.
5. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Shape into a round or oblong loaf, and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Strawberry and Rosewater Beltane Cake
Celebrate the magic of spring with this enchanting cake, infused with the sweet essence of strawberries and the delicate charm of rosewater.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 2 tablespoons rosewater extract
– 1 cup (120g) hulled and sliced strawberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Stir in rosewater extract.
6. Fold in sliced strawberries.
7. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Allow cakes to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Beltane Mead Punch with Fresh Berries
Celebrate the magic of Beltane with a refreshing and fruity punch that combines the sweetness of mead with the tartness of fresh berries. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or cozy gatherings by the fire, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mead (honey wine)
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup sparkling water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Slices of lemon and orange for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the mead and mixed berries. Let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water and honey until dissolved.
3. Fill glasses with ice and pour the punch over the top.
4. Garnish with slices of lemon and orange.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is a quick and easy assembly.
Wildflower and Honey Beltane Cookies
As the sun shines bright on May 1st, celebrate the magic of Beltane with these sweet and tender cookies infused with the essence of wildflowers and the warmth of honey. These delicate treats are perfect for a springtime gathering or as a special offering to the season’s radiant energy.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dried wildflowers (such as chamomile, lavender, or calendula)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, honey, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Stir in dried wildflowers and softened butter until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Herbed Butter Roasted Spring Vegetables
Elevate your spring vegetable game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe! A mix of fresh herbs and creamy butter adds a rich and aromatic taste to the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound spring vegetables (such as asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots), trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the spring vegetables on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the herbed butter mixture evenly over the vegetables, making sure they are well coated.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beltane Fire Salad with Edible Flowers
Celebrate the magic of Beltane with this vibrant salad that combines fresh flavors and colors, topped with edible flowers for a whimsical touch. This recipe is perfect for a springtime gathering or as a light and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup roasted sweet potato, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup edible flowers (violas, pansies, or nasturtiums)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potato, and chopped mint.
2. Top with crumbled feta cheese and edible flowers.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy the beauty of Beltane!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (quinoa cooking time)
Lavender and Lemon Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your baking game with these delicate and fragrant shortbread cookies infused with the soothing essence of lavender and the brightness of lemon. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and granulated sugar; mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Stir in lavender buds and lemon juice.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between cookies.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Beltane Oatcakes with Whipped Honey Butter
Celebrate the warmth of Beltane with these tender oatcakes and a dollop of whipped honey butter – a perfect match for a spring morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Whipped Honey Butter (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Drop by spoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each oatcake.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Whipped Honey Butter:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
1. Beat the softened butter and honey until smooth.
2. Add the heavy cream and whip until light and fluffy.
Sun-Drenched Beltane Fruit Salad
As the sun shines bright on Beltane, celebrate the season’s vibrant energy with this sweet and refreshing fruit salad. A colorful medley of juicy fruits will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling radiant.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup pineapple, chunks
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine strawberries, pineapple, and mixed berries.
2. Sprinkle chopped fresh mint leaves over the fruit mixture.
3. Drizzle honey and lime juice evenly over the salad.
4. Toss gently to coat all the fruits with the dressing.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and enjoy!
May Wine with Woodruff and Strawberries
Celebrate the sweet flavors of spring with this refreshing May wine recipe, combining the subtle sweetness of strawberries with the unique charm of woodruff. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a delightful apéritif.
Ingredients:
– 1 liter white wine (Riesling or Müller-Thurgau work well)
– 200g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 20g dried woodruff leaves
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Combine the sliced strawberries and sugar in a bowl. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.
2. Strain the wine into a large pitcher or jug. Add the strawberry mixture, including any remaining juice, to the wine.
3. Add the dried woodruff leaves to the pitcher and let it infuse for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
4. Just before serving, stir in the lemon juice.
5. Chill the May wine thoroughly before serving over ice.
Cooking Time: None
Beltane Honey-Glazed Carrots
Celebrate the beauty of spring with these sweet and sticky carrots, perfect for a Beltane feast or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, apple cider vinegar, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the sliced carrots to the bowl and toss to coat with the honey glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the carrot slices in a single layer.
5. Pour the remaining 1/4 cup of water over the carrots, then bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Elderflower and Mint Beltane Cooler
As the sun shines brightly on the longest day of the year, this refreshing Elderflower and Mint Beltane Cooler is the perfect way to quench your thirst. This flavorful drink is infused with the sweet and floral notes of elderflower, combined with the cooling essence of mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup elderflower syrup
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
– Sliced lemons or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine elderflower syrup, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the chopped mint leaves to the pitcher and muddle gently with a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the cooler over ice cubes in tall glasses. Garnish with sliced lemons or additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Beltane Cheese and Herb Tart
Beltane Cheese and Herb Tart Recipe
As the sun shines brightly on Beltane, celebrate the fertility of the earth with a tart that embodies the flavors of this ancient Celtic festival. This sweet and savory tart combines the richness of cheese, the brightness of herbs, and the warmth of spices to create a truly enchanting treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated Beltane Cheese (or similar strong cheddar)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together grated cheese, chopped herbs, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
6. Brush the edges with a little water and press gently to seal.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Roasted Lamb with Beltane Herbs
This recipe celebrates the arrival of Beltane, a time when nature awakens from its winter slumber. By combining tender lamb with fragrant herbs and spices, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to delight your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 leg of lamb (about 2 lbs), bone-in
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 sprigs of fresh mint leaves
– 2 sprigs of fresh lemon balm leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb leg, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the lamb on a roasting pan and roast for about 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the fresh mint and lemon balm leaves to the roasting pan.
6. Let the lamb rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes for a 2-pound leg of lamb.
Beltane Berry and Custard Trifle
As the sun shines bright on Beltane morning, celebrate with a sweet and tangy trifle that combines fresh berries, creamy custard, and light-as-air sponge cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 package sponge cake (about 8-10 slices)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Split the sponge cake into thin slices and toast until lightly browned.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
3. In a large bowl, combine toasted sponge cake, mixed berries, and custard mixture in layers, finishing with a layer of custard on top.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (for toasting the sponge cake)
Spiced Beltane Apple Cider
As the seasons shift and Beltane arrives, warm up with a cup of this spiced apple cider that embodies the magic of the May festival. This recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of spices to create a perfect blend for cozying up on chilly spring evenings.
Ingredients:
– 2 gallons apple cider
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine apple cider, orange slices, and lemon slices in a large pot.
2. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it steep for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Strain the cider into a separate container to remove spices and fruit slices.
6. If desired, add honey to taste and stir well.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to feast like the ancient Celts with these 18 magical Beltane recipes! From sweet treats like Honey Glazed Beltane Bannock and Strawberry and Rosewater Beltane Cake, to savory delights like Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Beltane Bread and Herbed Butter Roasted Spring Vegetables. Enjoy refreshing drinks like Beltane Mead Punch with Fresh Berries and Elderflower and Mint Beltane Cooler, or indulge in decadent desserts like Beltane Berry and Custard Trifle and Spiced Beltane Apple Cider. These recipes are sure to bring a touch of magic to your celebration!