Creating A Peachy Christmas

 

WORDS: CHYKA KEEBAUGH

IMAGES: MARCEL AUCAR

A thoughtfully chosen theme can transform everything—your decorating, dining, and even the way you celebrate. This year, I’ve chosen a soft, dreamy palette of peach and green for my Chyka Home collections with Harris Scarfe this Christmas, and let me tell you, it’s been a delight extending these colours into every corner of my festivities. And here’s the best part: you don’t need to break the bank to make it magical. With creativity and planning, you can create a cohesive, stylish, and unforgettable celebration everyone will adore.

Peachy Ginger Spritz Mocktail

This mocktail is as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s a fabulous addition to your peach-and-green Christmas theme, bringing colour and flavour to the party. Cheers to festive sipping

Ingredients (Serves 1)

  • 200ml Peach Ginger Sparkling Water

  • 50ml peach nectar or juice (fresh or store-bought)

  • 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)

  • 1 tsp honey or agave syrup (optional for added sweetness)

  • Ice cubes

  • Garnishes: peach slices, mint leaves, and a sprig of rosemary

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Glass: Fill a tall glass with ice cubes to keep your mocktail chilled.

  2. Mix the Base: In a small pitcher or directly in the glass, combine the peach nectar, lime juice, and honey/agave syrup (if using). Stir until well mixed.

  3. Add the Sparkle: Slowly pour in the Peach Ginger Sparkling Water, letting the bubbles do their thing. Stir gently to combine.

  4. Garnish to Impress: Top with a fresh sprig of mint for festive flair and a perfect peach-shaped cake pop from The Butcher’s Daughter.

  5. Serve & Enjoy: Sip and savour your peachy creation!


A theme gives your celebration direction and focus. It’s a way to tie everything together, from the baubles on your tree to the food on your table. A peach and green palette is modern and timeless, offering a fresh twist on traditional Christmas tones. It feels light, joyful, and oh-so-stylish, perfect for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. For example, why not serve peach-infused cocktails or mocktails if you'rehosting a gathering? A sparkling peach Bellini garnished with a sprig of mint or rosemary tastes divine and looks festive. Why stop at cocktails? Your colour palette can inspire your menu as well. Imagine a platter of succulent green salads topped with peaches or a charcuterie board featuring green olives, pistachios, and peach chutney. Try a honey-glazed ham garnished with sprigs of rosemary and roasted peaches for your main.

Peach Crumble Shortcrust Pie

This peach crumble shortcrust pie is a delightful blend of buttery pastry, juicy peaches, and a golden, crumbly topping. It’s the perfect dessert, and with a few simple ingredients, it’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy!

 

Ingredients

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

  • 1 1/4 cups (190g) all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 cup (50g) sugar

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

  • 3-4 tbsp cold water

For the Peach Filling:

  • 5-6 ripe peaches (about 1kg), peeled, pitted, and sliced

  • 1/4 cup (50g) sugar (adjust based on the sweetness of peaches)

  • 1 tbsp cornstarch

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)

  • Juice of 1/2 lemon

For the Crumble Topping:

  • 1/2 cup (75g) all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar

  • 1/4 cup (25g) rolled oats

  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted

  • Pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Shortcrust Pastry

  1. Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor or bowl. Add the chilled butter and pulse (or rub with your fingers) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  2. Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it.

  3. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. Combine the peach slices, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla, cinnamon, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Toss gently to coat the peaches evenly. Let sit for 10-15 minutes to release juices.

Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping

  1. Combine flour, brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon/nutmeg in a medium bowl.

  2. Pour in the melted butter and mix with a fork until the mixture forms crumbly clumps. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled pastry on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press it gently into the dish, trimming any excess overhang.

  2. Add the peach filling to the pastry shell, spreading it out evenly.

  3. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the peaches.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

  1. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 45-50 minutes until the filling is bubbly and the crumble is golden brown.

  2. If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with foil or a pie shield halfway through baking.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

  1. Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before slicing to allow the filling to set.

  2. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or simply as is.

 
 
Christmas, Drinks, Recipes, Sweet TreatsChyka Keebaugh [Chyka.com]THE BUTCHERS DAUGHTER, peach, christmas mocktail, mocktail, peach pie