There are few things more luxurious than a lie-in at the weekend followed by a decadent breakfast in bed. And yet a survey by a leading hotel chain showed that 40 per cent of adults couldn't remember the last time they were treated to breakfast between the sheets, while 20 per cent have never experienced it. Over half would like to enjoy the luxury of eating breakfast in bed more often, and thought the tradition was important for celebrating special occasions.

Breakfast Tray Table

So why not make time to indulge more often in this simple pleasure? Whether you make breakfast for a loved one to celebrate an anniversary, prepare it together, or simply treat yourself, here are a few ideas and practical tips.

Breakfast Tray Table

How to prepare for breakfast in bed

Throwing together whatever's in the fridge is okay on an ordinary weekend, but for a special occasion some forward planning is needed. Decide on your menu and make sure you have all the ingredients to hand. It's probably not the best time to try out a complicated recipe you've never done before - you don't want to keep your partner waiting in bed for hours while you struggle in the kitchen. Stick to something tried and tested that's quick to prepare.

It's easy to make a mess when eating in bed, and crumbs in the bed or tomato ketchup on the sheets can spoil an otherwise perfect moment. To avoid this, use a large tray that fits comfortably on your lap and has sides to stop things sliding off. Or you could invest in a specially designed overbed table, a tray with small legs that fold out to form a miniature table on your bed.

If you're preparing breakfast for an anniversary or birthday, a few elegant touches will help make it feel special. Place a cloth over the tray, fold a napkin and use your best china and silverware. If you're cooking hot food, warm the plates in the oven first. Pour out a glass of fresh orange juice or, if you're feeling really decadent, champagne, and prepare a pot of freshly ground coffee. Add a single flower in a small vase. You could even place a small wrapped gift on the tray. Finally, bring along the Sunday papers or a magazine for your partner to read over breakfast.

What food is best for breakfast in bed?

When making breakfast for someone else, think about what they really relish as a treat. It could be a traditional fry-up of bacon, sausage and eggs, a selection of continental style pastries and croissants, or a healthy and colourful fresh fruit salad. Some foods are easier to eat in bed than others. Avoid anything that's messy, crumbly, or could drip on or stain the covers. Don't bring fruit that needs peeling, or anything with seeds or stones.

Scrambled eggs are a versatile breakfast meal, since you can add any number of other ingredients. Try red peppers, crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs, or smoked salmon. If you live close to a bakery or supermarket you could nip out for some freshly baked bread or muffins or, if you have the skills and the time, you could make your own.

Pancakes are another popular breakfast food, and can be accompanied by fruit, sweet sauces or savoury fillings such as cheese. French toast is a quick, easy recipe, and for Valentines Day, why not cut the toast into a heart shape? If you're preparing breakfast as a treat for your partner, or to spoil your mother on Mother's Day, don't forget to clear up afterwards. After a delicious breakfast in bed, he or she shouldn't have to face a dirty kitchen.

If you're making breakfast on your own, there are very few rules, as you only have yourself to please. But don't be afraid to treat yourself and make it. After all, at the end of a long week's work, you deserve a little luxury.

Preparing the Perfect Breakfast in Bed

Breakfast Tray Table