If the wonderful British summer is not too unpredictable there should be plenty of opportunities to enjoy a picnic. If the rain stops play, then it can be easy enough to relocate to the sitting room for an indoor picnic. Whatever the location picnics are a wonderful opportunity to indulge and enjoy treats galore.
So what makes the perfect picnic?
Planning
Spontaneity can be wonderful, but the secret to a really great picnic is planning. If your picnic location is likely to require some walking then pack light. Keep containers lightweight and avoid packing any food or drink items that could be heavy or difficult to carry.
If you have items that need to be kept cool or warm, make sure they are kept separate, possibly considering a cooler if needed. If you are having a larger picnic perhaps use two cooler boxes or bags, one for drinks and one for food.
Think about the order in which you may require items. It is likely that sandwiches and savouries will be eaten first so avoid burying them at the bottom of the picnic basket.
Storage and Practical tips
There is nothing worse than opening a picnic hamper to find something has leaked or spilled. Making sure Tupperware is sealed tightly and lids are screwed on sauces and dressings can help avoid any messy mistakes.
If you are bringing plastic glasses, consider that they probably won’t balance on grass if you are picnicking outside. Pack a small lightweight tray to put them on, or use a Tupperware lid.
Don’t forget to pack cutlery and key items like a tin opener or bottle opener if you need them! Rather than bringing large bottles of condiments from the cupboard consider putting a small amount in a little container, or better still save any condiment packets from restaurants or fast food, they are perfect for picnics!
Food for a Feast
Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to picnic feasting. The options are endless, if you can make it, transport it and enjoy it then you can pack it! The quintessential British picnic would not be complete without the savoury snacks of sausage rolls, scotch eggs, pork pies and quiche.
The humble sausage roll can be enjoyed in its original form of pork mince in a buttery pastry, or the recipe can be adapted to include cheese, spices, vegetarian or vegan fillings to name a few. Sausage rolls are ideal for the perfect picnic as they travel well and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Quiche recipes also allow for plenty of adaption. There are so many options from meat to vegetable, and a quiche can be made in advance of a picnic and cut into portions before packing.
Pudding at a Picnic
Selecting the perfect picnic sweet treats can be a minefield. What will travel well? What won’t be messy to eat, or tricky to serve? What won’t melt or curdle if the weather is nice? Traybakes and loaf cakes are a great choice, not only can they be easily packed as a whole, they can be portioned beforehand and will stand up well against any scorching day. Lemon drizzle cake, flapjacks, brownies, fruit loaf, the options are plenty!
Biscuits and shortbreads are also a great choice for the picnic, provided they are not dripping in chocolate that could melt! Shortbreads can be plain or with chocolate chips or fruit, biscuits can be filled with jam or dusted with sugar.
What perfect picnic would be complete without a jam and cream scone to finish? A crumbly sweet treat that can be plain or flavoured with fruit or cheese. All you need is a pot of sweet jam and some clotted cream.
Whatever your picnic preference if you are stuck for ideas or fancy a homemade feast without the baking and preparation, Anna Baker Cakes can help. From tasty savoury bakes to sweet treats, Anna Baker can make your picnic perfect. If a picnic isn’t for you and you just fancy some fabulous food, get in touch with Anna today to discuss your requirements.
