Items to be Buttered

These are the sorts of unsophisticated, family-type foods which are welcome at morning tea time, or on a cold winter's afternoon or for a late supper, and which can temper the sweet lightness of an afternoon tea menu with their honest wholesomeness. They are the stuff of thrifty baking, of rapid response to an emergency, or to the arrival of an unexpected visitor, and they create a very relaxed and homely mood in your kitchen.

  • Bran Teabread

    Bran Teabread

    Bran Teabread is from Shonagh Koeas's book 'The Kindness of Strangers: Kitchen Memoirs' published by Random House in 2007. As well as being a highly enjoyable read, it includes many very good and well-tested recipes... More »

  • Banana Nut Loaf

    Banana Nut Loaf

    Since we are in the territory of items to be buttered, we'll begin with a recipe that, although nicely moist and with very good keeping qualities, includes no butter in the mixture. Buttering a slice... More »

  • Savoury Scones

    Savoury Scones

    Scone recipes are always very simple, and so their success depends a lot on the skill of the maker. We all want light scones, not doughy or leaden lumps, and because they are quick breads... More »

  • Perfect Pikelets

    Perfect Pikelets

    For me, this recipe makes perfect pikelets. Myra Lawrie was my adviser on the pikelet front and I have given her recipe to a number of novice cooks, who have found it easy and reliable.... More »

  • Apricot and Coconut Loaf

    Apricot and Coconut Loaf

    This pretty and delicious loaf comes from a 2009 community cookbook, produced by the Tokoroa District Lions to raise funds for their local hospice. My friend Shirley Dunphy is a member of the small team... More »