In the final festive instalment of A Recipe For…, Strictly Come Dancing Head Judge Shirley Ballas joins host Si King for a heartfelt celebration of family, memory, and the power of good food to bring us together - reminding us why festive traditions matter and why ensuring every child can access a warm, nutritious meal makes a lasting difference.
In the final festive instalment of A Recipe For…, Strictly Come Dancing Head Judge Shirley Ballas joins host Si King for a heartfelt celebration of family, memory, and the power of good food to bring us together - reminding us why festive traditions matter and why ensuring every child can access a warm, nutritious meal makes a lasting difference.
Shirley shares her family’s cherished yule log – a classic Christmas bake made of soft chocolate sponge rolled with silky buttercream, finished with bark-like icing and seasonal flourishes. The festive centrepiece has been lovingly passed down from her grandmother, with each generation adding their own special touch.
Throughout the episode, Shirley reflects on the memories she has of the dessert - from helping her grandmother decorate the cake to her brother nabbing the end pieces because they had the most chocolate. The yule log brings her back to the laughter, the rituals, and the feeling of togetherness with her family, especially those who are no longer with us.
Shirley also speaks candidly about growing up receiving free school meals, how grateful she was for the warmth and stability of a hot lunch at school, and the importance of supporting those who struggle to access food with this kind of support.
Rewatch the full series of A Recipe For… here and learn more about our Meals Make Memories campaign here.
