Holiday Tea Breads

Daughter, L, is driving up here, this afternoon. (We say 'up' because she lives at the bottom of the mountain, and I live on top.) We've got a full, fun day of holiday baking ahead of us ~ dozens and dozens of Christmas cookies plus a special treat for the gals in my horse club.

I'm an Irish lass. Growing up, tea was big part of our afternoons. Relaxing with a nibble, not the high tea extravaganza those Brits are famous for. :)

Around the holidays, people drop by unexpectedly and it's nice to have a little treat when they come to call...

Tea Breads
* each one of these recipes makes 1 loaf.

Mix together....

• 1 3/4 cups flour
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoons salt

Stir in... 
This is where you can get creative. Start with the basic recipe and then add a few extra goodies to make these breads absolutely delightful.

Chocolate Tea Bread:

• 2 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup cocoa

Peachy Tea Bread:

• 1 cup chopped peaches
• 3/4 cup toasted pecans
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk

Lavender Tea Bread:

• 3 tablespoons lavender flowers
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• A simple sugar glaze is lovely on this one.  (2 cups powdered sugar and a little bit of water.)

Pour into a traditional-size bread loaf pan. (Use a spritz of cooking spray.) Pop this mess in the oven. Bake at 350 degrees, for about 1 hour. Use a toothpick to determine if it's done.

Then, brew up a pot of Earl Grey tea and...... enjoy!