If you usually rush to Waitrose or Sainsbury’s when you have guests coming over and scoop up their pre-made canapés, perhaps the time has come to think again. For the past few years, Karen has been running canapé making classes at Meadow Barn in Bellingdon. 

In a relaxed atmosphere round her kitchen table, small groups of between 6 and 10 participants sit round the kitchen table and watch – and if you want practice – how to make both savoury and sweet canapés. 

Karen says: “The idea for Canapease took root about 7 years ago when, having committed to preparing canapés for 80 guests at a do in London, I was told there was not a kitchen on site. Serious panic ensued as I searched my countless cookery books and numerous websites to find that there is no such thing as a comprehensive guide to make-ahead canapés.”

“Somehow I managed to pull it all together but from that experience an idea began to slowly grow: create a source for ‘make-ahead canapés’. Nearly 3 years ago I challenged myself to post a make-ahead canapé on my website every week (some with full size options too) and so far I have created some 150 recipes that are all on the website. I hope to get an e-book sorted out soon too.  Please take a look: Canapease.com.”

In the meantime Karen’s website also has a range of handy cookery tips, some from loyal subscribers to the weekly newsletter. If you’re interested in subscribing to the newsletter and/or attending one of the canapé demonstrations, please go to canapease.com or email karen@canapease.com. 

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