Bonfire Night Foods
Let’s make some bonfire night food!
Bonfire Night, or Guy Fawkes Night, is celebrated each year on November 5th in the UK. With a chilly night around the fire, the right food can really make the night memorable.
In this guide, I'll share some easy, classic Bonfire Night recipes that will keep everyone satisfied, warm, and ready for more sparks in the sky. Let’s dive in!
I’d also recommend completing the night by checking out these;
What is Traditional Food for Bonfire Night?
Bonfire Night foods are all about warmth, simplicity, and a little bit of nostalgia.
Traditional recipes often include ingredients that are easy to prepare in bulk, keeping both adults and kids happy as they celebrate outside. Here are a few must-have traditional Bonfire Night foods.
Jacket Potatoes
These are a Bonfire Night staple and the perfect way to keep your hands warm as you savor the crispy skin and fluffy center.
Top them with butter and cheese, or for something heartier, try chili or baked beans. There’s something magical about watching fireworks with a warm jacket potato in hand, wrapped in foil to stay warm.
The easiest Jacket Potato recipe you’ll come across is this one.
Toffee Apples
Toffee apples bring back memories of childhood, with their sticky, crunchy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cool autumn air.
While it can get a bit messy (especially if you’re wrangling little ones), the mix of apple and caramelized sugar is worth it.
Plus, they’re super easy to make at home if you want to try your hand at DIY treats!
Though let’s be honest, you can just buy them from any supermarket this time of year and it’s much easier.
Traditional Bonfire Night Food in Yorkshire
Sidenote: If you’re in Yorkshire or simply love traditional regional flavors, there are a couple of classic dishes you can’t miss on Bonfire Night.
This sticky gingerbread cake is as Yorkshire as it gets, with rich, spicy flavors and a chewy, dense texture that’s perfect for the season.
Made with oatmeal and treacle, it has an irresistible warmth that goes wonderfully with a cup of tea or mulled wine.
If you’re after something comforting that also feels nostalgic, Parkin Cake is the way to go.
This is a fun twist on the classic Yorkshire pudding, filling a giant pudding with meats, veggies, or even a sprinkle of cheese.
Easy to eat on the go, Yorkshire pudding wraps have become a Bonfire Night favorite, with portable portions that make it easy to enjoy without the need for forks or plates.
Simple Finger Foods for Bonfire Night
When you’re out by the fire, simple finger foods make it easy for everyone to grab a bite.
Here are some quick-to-make (and crowd-pleasing!) finger foods.
Pigs in Blankets
These are always a hit. Wrap mini sausages in bacon, bake until crispy, and serve them with dips like mustard or ketchup.
The smoky, savory flavor is perfect for colder weather, and they’re easy to make in big batches if you’re hosting a crowd.
I’d recommend this recipe if you’re making them yourself.
Cheese and Onion Pasties
A favorite of mine is a classic cheese and onion pasty. Perfect for vegetarians eating on Bonfire Night.
These mini pasties are easy to make ahead and even easier to enjoy by the fire. For a simple recipe, fill puff pastry squares with a mix of shredded cheese and caramelized onions.
Fold, bake until golden, and serve! They’re warm, satisfying, and can be easily customized with fillings like potato, mushrooms, or other veggies.
Couldn’t be easier to make! Check out this recipe to get started.
Bonfire Popcorn
For a snack you can make in minutes, try Bonfire Popcorn.
All you need to do is add a pinch of cinnamon and sugar to warm popcorn for a sweet version, or toss it with a bit of smoked paprika for a savory option.
It’s great for munching on as the night goes on, and kids and adults alike will love it!
Vegetarian Food for Bonfire Night
Don’t worry, vegetarians have plenty to enjoy on Bonfire Night! I’ve actually posted a full article dedicated to veggie bonfire night food here. But for a quick idea here are a few hearty and delicious options that everyone will appreciate.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and filling option, especially when they’re packed with a mix of rice, black beans, cheese, and a dash of chili seasoning.
Bake until tender, and you’ll have a warm, hearty meal that’s perfect for cooler weather. Serve with a dollop of sour cream on top!
Vegetarian Stew
There’s nothing like a hot bowl of stew to keep you warm on bonfire night. This is actually a burns night stew but it works so well for any cosy night that I had to include it!
Roasted Vegetable Skewers
Simple but flavorful, roasted veggie skewers can be packed with squash, peppers, mushrooms, and onions.
Lightly season with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder, then roast until golden and tender. Serve them warm, with a garlic yogurt dip or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a little extra flair.
Focaccia Bread
Focaccia is nice anytime of year but nothing quite beats tearing into a fluffy airy rosemary and olive focaccia smothered in flaky sea salt and olive oil…
Sticky Popcorn Cauliflower
Perfect for snacking though likely to be gone in minutes. These sticky popcorn cauliflower bites are perfect for parties!
Air Fryer Loaded Chips
Air fryer loaded fries are perfect for veggies but also, perfect for if you’re in a rush. And if you do have an air fryer and you’re looking for more inspiration, then check out my guide to air fryer bonfire food.
Bonfire Night Cupcake Recipe
Bonfire Night cupcakes are an easy and fun dessert that brings a festive touch to your gathering. They’re simple to decorate with fire-inspired colors and “sparklers.”
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups flour
1 cup sugar
½ cup butter (softened)
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup milk
Red, orange, and yellow food coloring
Chocolate-coated pretzel sticks (for sparklers)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F and line a cupcake tin.
Mix flour and sugar. In a separate bowl, cream butter, then add eggs, vanilla, and milk.
Divide batter and add food coloring to make flame-like swirls.
Bake for 18-20 minutes. Decorate with swirls of icing in flame colors, and add chocolate pretzel “sparklers” on top.
Treats for Bonfire Night
Sweet treats are the perfect addition to Bonfire Night, bringing in some classic favorites that everyone can enjoy.
Toffee Apples
These are a must-have for Bonfire Night, bringing a fun, traditional touch. Simply skewer apples, dip them in a melted sugar mixture until well-coated, and let them harden on parchment.
For an extra touch, drizzle chocolate over them or add a sprinkle of crushed nuts!
Bonfire Lollies Recipe
Make your own simple lollipops for a unique treat.
Ingredients:
1 cup sugar
½ cup water
2 tbsp corn syrup
Food coloring
Instructions:
Heat sugar, water, and corn syrup to 300°F.
Pour onto parchment paper, add lollipop sticks, and let set.
S’mores
S’mores are always a winner when there’s a fire nearby! Use graham crackers, chocolate bars, and marshmallows.
Toast the marshmallows until golden and melty, sandwich between crackers with chocolate, and you’ve got a gooey treat that’s impossible not to love.
Check out this easy S’more recipe.
Bonfire Night Dessert Ideas
Round out the night with a cozy, warm dessert that’ll make everyone feel right at home.
Apple Crumble with Custard
For a dessert that’s both classic and comforting, try an apple crumble. Simply bake sliced apples with cinnamon, sugar, and a buttery crumble topping until golden.
Serve warm with custard or vanilla ice cream for a perfect end to the night.
Poached Pears
These mulled poached pears are perfect for bonfire night AND Christmas, so make them now as a practice round before you get started on your Christmas recipes.
Banana Split
For those on a cut or generally trying to be a little more healthy, I’d recommend this classic banana split recipe.
Drinks to Warm Up By the Fire
Now for the drinks! First and foremost, check out my ultimate guide to bonfire night cocktails if you’re after something alcoholic.
I’d also recommend this guide to autumn drinks and this guide to winter drinks.
Hot Chocolate with Toppings Bar Set up a toppings bar for hot chocolate so guests can customize their mugs with whipped cream, marshmallows, cinnamon, and even a splash of liqueur.
Seriously, you NEED a hot chocolate station. Just trust me on this one.
Mulled Cider or Wine
Mulled cider or wine is full of warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and orange. Serve it in a big pot so people can refill as they please.
Here’s the best ever mulled cider recipe you’ll find and for homemade mulled wine it has to be this recipe.
Final Thoughts on Bonfire Night Foods
Bonfire Night foods are all about warmth, coziness, and ease.
These recipes will help you create a delicious spread, from snacks to desserts, that keeps the party going all night.
With a variety of flavors and options for everyone, your Bonfire Night gathering will be one to remember!
Hi, I’m Cameron, guv’nor of Smartblend. If you liked this then you’re in luck, I have a bunch more recipes like it. I share only vegetarian and pescatarian food recipes, cocktails, and drink guides with a sprinkling of wellness and mindful drinking. If that sounds like you, then stick around!
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