Gingerbread men

1.Combine golden syrup, sugar and spices in a heatproof bowl.

2.Place bowl over a saucepan of simmering water until sugar dissolves, then stir in bicarbonate of soda. Remove from heat as soon as mixture bubbles.

3.Place butter in a large mixing bowl. Add golden syrup mixture; stir until butter melts and mixture is smooth. Set aside to cool.

4.Add egg and 1 cup of flour; mix well. Add remaining flour and, using hands, bring dough together.

5.Knead dough gently on a lightly floured surface until soft and smooth. Halve dough and wrap each half in plastic wrap; chill 30 minutes.

6.Preheat oven to moderate, 180°C (160°C fan-forced). Grease and line two baking trays.

7.Roll half of dough between two sheets of baking paper to 5mm thick. Using a 12cm gingerbread man cutter, cut out 14 shapes. Place on prepared trays. Re-knead offcuts; chill before rolling out again. Repeat with remaining dough.

8.To decorate, press in currants for eyes and buttons, and a sliver of glace cherry for mouths.

9.Bake biscuits 10-15 minutes, until starting to colour and firm to touch. Cool on wire racks before serving.