Chai (Indian spiced tea)

My simple version of Chai. It's decaf green tea, not too strong, with some ground cinnamon and cardamom, as well as a generous amount of honey and sugar. (I actually like unsweetened tea; it's just not good for me.)

I like to dip crispy baked cinnamon-sugar Mediterranean crackers, as well as homemade biscuits, in my tea. The Chai is very warm and soothing. A few winters ago, when I had aches and pains from the very cold weather, this was one thing that helped a lot. This post is in honor of #internationalteaday !

Masala Chai Pear Scone

This recipe is from a Binjal's Veg Kitchen recipe. I added about 1/2 tsp baking soda, just to be on the safe side with the yogurt included in the scones. Canned sliced pears made measuring and chopping the fruit, a breeze. After they were baked and cooled, I enjoyed a scone or two for dinner. Delicious!

@binjalsvegkitchen Instagram, Feb. 20, Masala Chai Pear Scones

Binjal's Veg Kitchen Website, Masala Chai Pear Scones

Caramel Chai Abstract Art Buns,

with Vegan Caramel

These are based on the yummyness that is Cupcakes & Curries' Caramel Chai Hot Cross Buns (Instagram, Feb. 18). The caramel used is that of A Virtual Vegan in her Vegan Chocolate Caramels (Instagram, Feb. 13).

I'd read that some people like to make smiley faces, instead of crosses, on their hot cross buns. That seemed such a nice idea, that could cheer up anyone not having a good day, that I thought I'd try it. Unfortunately, I didn't pay close enough attention to the part of the recipe, that says the flour-and-water paste shouldn't be too runny -- and so the smiley faces became more like abstract art. It didn't affect the taste, fortunately.

As I can't eat certain things because they are too rich for me, I had to make some substitutes. Instead of milk, butter, and caramel with cream, I used water, oil, and vegan caramel. What was important to me, is that I was able to bake these yummies that I can enjoy for a few days. (I stashed a few in the freezer.) Yay! 

Cupcakes & Curries Website, Caramel Chai Hot Cross Buns

Cupcakes & Curries Facebook

A Virtual Vegan Website, Vegan Chocolate Caramels

A Virtual Vegan Facebook