Spiced Cookies in Shape of Men

Heat the oven to gas mark 4, 350°F (180°C).

Put the sugar, syrup, 1 Tsp of water, together in a large saucepan and heat, stirring all the time, until the sugar is dissolved.

Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the butter, cut into lumps, and the baking (bicarbonate ) soda.

Next stir in the flour gradually until you have a smooth manageable dough.

Wrap in clear wrap and leave in a cool place to become firm for about 30 minutes.

Now roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to 3mm/ 1/8 inch thickness and cut out the gingerbread men.

Use the end of a small clean paint brush to press out eyes, a nose, a mouth, button and a bowl tie.

Divide the marzipan into 10. Roll into 10 mini sausages and pinch in the middle, flatten, to make bow ties.

Brush the base of each bow tie with a little water and push on to the biscuits.

Arrange them on the lightly greased baking sheets and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the biscuits feel firm when lightly pressed with a fingertip.