The pleasures of an afternoon tea

Afternoon tea and treats!
Photo provided by the Blue Harbor House

Nothing is more inviting than the invitation to sit for a moment to linger a cup of afternoon tea with a sweet treat (or two!). It is more than just a chance to fill ones tummy with something delicious, it is a chance to experience a few captured moments of inner tranquility. The first hint of aroma draws you in. The first sip sweeps you to a place far away from a bustling world, and for a few brief moments "none of it matters".

This recipe for Scottish Lavender Shortbread  has been graciously shared by Annette Hazzard of the Blue Harbor House, Camden Maine. Each afternoon, Annette offers guests complimentary tea accompanied by a baked treat such as the lovely lavender shortbread pictured right.



Scottish Lavender Shortbread
by Annette Hazzard - Blue Harbor House 


Shortbread
8oz butter
1/2 cup sugar
2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup cornflour(cornstarch)

Mix butter and sugar together until creamy.  Gently mix in flour and

cornstarch until it all binds together. It should be a moist, not dry

mixture.  Use cookie cutters to cut  out circles.  

Bake at 325 for 20-30 minutes

Lavender and rose glaze
2tbsp crushed culinary lavender.
1 tbsp rosewater
Powdered sugar to make a thick paste.
Mix all together. Smooth on top of cooled shortbread.