Winter Brings the Birds

Happy Fat Friday #2

I’m very excited about this little project because it’s one I’ve done for years, but only recently realized I could make the fat portion of the recipe from my own resources, rather than purchasing lard, though this is a perfectly good option if you don’t have home rendered fat in the cupboard.

The first time I made this recipe, it was for a 12 Days of Christmas project, and this was for the 5 Gold Rings on the fifth day. They look lovely hanging like ornaments from a tree, and the birds and squirrels adored them.

You can use lard or tallow and if you aren’t keen on using peanut butter, you could substitute it with the same amount in whatever fat you’re using. 

Tallow and lard provide birds with a rich fat source which provide an invaluable supply energy, something that’s particularly important during the winter when birds need more calories to keep warm and natural food sources are scarcer. Adding seeds and fruits to your bird wreath rings makes them attractive to a wider range of birds and supplies them with nourishing vitamins and minerals. 

I do recommend this be a treat only served during the coldest days of winter as heat can melt the suet and potential turn the peanut butter or fruit bad. As long as the temperatures stay mostly in the 30s and 40s, your rings should hold up well so the birds have plenty of time to enjoy them safely. 

Bird Wreaths

1lb of fat 

1/2 cup of peanut butter

3 cups of bird seed

1/2 cup of dried fruits & nuts (I used cherries, cranberries, currants, walnuts, and almonds)

Mini bunt pan (greased if not non-stick)

Melt the fat, but do not boil it. Add the peanut butter and stir until well combined. Add the bird seeds and stir well. Line the bottom of each bunt ring with some dried fruit and nuts, then spoon the fat and seeds over top, mixing in between spoonfuls to keep the distribution even. Chill over night in the fridge or wrapped and outside if the temperatures are low enough. Use some ribbon or twine to tie your rings into the trees or along a deck railing. Enjoy!

I hope you’ll have a moment with a hot beverage and cozy shawl and watch the birds enjoy their winter treat.

Happy Friday, Friends