Tea Time

As the days get warmer I still like to have my hot cup of tea every morning and sometimes in the afternoon too. I know coffee lovers feel the same way too. Something everyone needs to keep those nasty rings off their tables are mug mats. I some very pretty mug mats for sale in my shop that are quite the bargain at a set of 4 for $5. Here is a sample and to see more check out my shop Craftsbyellen.




Of course everyone needs a nice teapot for when you have company over, and I've found this pretty teapot at flowering ceramics. This shop has many lovely items so take time to check it out.


Now here's a recipe that you can enjoy with your tea or coffee.

Chocolate Coffee Cake

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups sugar
1 cup cold butter or margarine
4 tsp baking cocoa
3 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/8 tsp salt
1/8 tsp ground cloves
1 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped nuts
2 cups buttermilk

In a large bowl, combine the flour and sugar; cut in butter until crumbly. Set aside 1 1/4 cups for topping. To the remaining mixture, add cocoa, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder. nutmeg, salt and cloves; mix well. Stir in raisins and nuts. Make a well in the center; pour in buttermilk and stir just until moistened.
Transfer to a greased 13x9x2" baking pan. Sprinkle with reserved crumb mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 - 40 minutes or until toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. Yield: 12 -16 servings

Closeout Prices on Top Brands! Now at Cooking.com!