Make a festive treat for birds 

While you’re tucking into hearty meals over the Christmas period, spare a thought for hungry birds. In winter, food is harder for them to find since many plants have ceased their flowering and fruiting cycle. Additionally, hard frosts make it difficult for ground feeders to locate worms and grubs. With less around, you can support your garden birds through leaner times by providing additional food. Making a large fat-cake feeder is the perfect solution to this deficit, providing a high-energy, tasty treat for birds, as well as an attractive winter decoration. This wreath-shaped feeding station is best suspended around 2m from the ground to help protect birds from potential predators. Hang it near the cover of bushes, hedges or from a tree to help make birds feel safer when they’re feasting on these treats.

Step 1: Cut up an prepare your ingredients

Cut the fat block into large pieces. Add these to the mixing bowl, along with the dried fruit, peanuts, seeds and grated cheese. Mix together thoroughly using your fingertips to break up the fat and distribute the dried ingredients. If you prefer, wear rubber gloves to avoid greasy hands. 

Step 2: Line the tin

Line the Bundt tin with three strips of ribbon or herringbone tape. Tuck one end into the centre hole, then lay it flat in the bottom of the tin with the tail end overhanging the rim.

Step 3: Put the mixure in the tin

Spoon the mixture into the tin and evenly distribute it around the ring. Once full, press down firmly using the back of the spoon to consolidate it and remove air pockets. 

Step 4: Remove from tin

Pour hot water into the large mixing bowl. Carefully lower the Bundt tin into the water to soften the fat. Upturn the tin onto a plate, using the ribbon/tape handles if necessary to ease it out. 

Step 5: Decorate

Decorate with rose hips, berries and leaves, pushing the stalks firmly into the fat. Allow to cool completely. Thread ribbon through the centre and knot it just above the ring to make a hanging loop.