Still time to relax

I hope you are enjoying your summer so far. With relaxing times by the pool or long walks on the beach most people have specific plans for the summer. This summer for me has been a hodge podge of fun and relaxing events with the family. Family parties, get togethers or simply catching up on television I haven't watched in forever!
With all the hustle that comes with September that lurks around the corner for many families it is still important to take a few moments and enjoy some time to relax. So as we inch closer to the start of up of school and different routines remember to take some time to continue to relax and perhaps put your feet up and enjoy a treat!

If you want to take some time and whip up these family favourite cookies with a cup of this delicious tea you too may find your self relaxing any time of the year.

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

My kids love these cookies. Not all of them enjoy chocolate chip cookies (one of my favourites) but this is a close second. Sometimes I sneak a small handful of mini chocolate chips near the end of the batter for myself and make a few “chocolatey cookies” for me.

1 cup (250 mL) butter, softened

1 cup (250 mL) packed brown sugar

1/2 cup (125 mL) granulated sugar

2 eggs

1 tbsp (15 mL) vanilla

1 1/2 cups (375 mL) all purpose flour

1 tsp (5 mL) baking soda

1 tsp (5 mL) cinnamon

Pinch salt

3 cups (750 mL) large flake or quick cooking oats 

1 cup (250 mL) large raisins

In large bowl, beat butter and sugars until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla.

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. Add to butter mixture and stir until combined. Add oats and raisins; stir until well distributed.

Drop onto parchment paper lined baking sheets by heaping tablespoonfuls and bake in 350°F (180°C) oven for about 12 minutes or until light golden brown. Let cool slightly on baking sheet; remove to cooking rack. Let cool completely. Store in sealed container to retain moistness for about 2 weeks or freeze for up to 1 month.

Makes about 42 cookies.

Citrus Vanilla Tea

Warm up to this cuppa while reading a good book. A relaxing way to enjoy some time to yourself. Double or triple the recipe and refrigerate for a fresh flavoured iced tea.

2 cups (500 mL) water

1 cinnamon stick

1 bag black tea 

1 mandarin or small orange, cut in half

Quarter lemon, cut in slices

1 tbsp (15 mL) demerara sugar (or more to taste)

2 tbsp (25 mL) vanilla or orange flavoured liqueur 

In small saucepan, bring water and cinnamon stick to boil. Squeeze mandarin and lemon into water and add fruit. Add tea bag and let steep for 5 minutes. Stir in sugar until dissolved. 

Remove fruit and tea bag and stir in liqueur. Pour into two warmed mugs. Break cinnamon stick in half and add to cups.

Makes 2 servings.

For a kid friendly version omit liqueur and add 1 tsp (5 mL) vanilla extract.