That Awkward Stage

It’s that awkward time in mid February when everyone is already waiting for spring but then you get a weekend snow dump, and the clock is rewound back to deep winter.

Certain someone was happy to trek through the morning snow though. (Getting the snow out of her fur was a different story.)

There was a flash mob on Facebook awhile ago: post a picture of your 21 year old self. Do you remember yourself when you were 21 (if you’re old enough)? I remember being this self pompous “know-it-all”, laced with some awkwardness and existential crisis flare – a typical 80s youth.
I’m about 20-21 here, a mix of a child and a deep thinking elder, plus that glorious 80s hair!

And, here are my young and beautiful parents also at 21, shortly after they got married. I was “assembled” about 18 months later.

Here’s my older looking dad, sending me off to church to get married at 27, thus ending my proverbial childhood and throwing me into a full-fledged adult life.

Finally, my kid at his 21st birthday celebration, now sharing cocktails with us lawfully and legally.

What else is there to do on a snowy winter day but reminisce and look through old photos?! Perhaps baking will also fit the bill!

What’s Cooking This Week

We have a simple buttermilk loaf recipe today that you can dress up with candied fruits or make it plain. I personally love candied ginger as it has a perfect mixture of sweetness and spice, but you can use any dried fruit you have or bake the loaf plain. I decided to glaze it with hot honey instead of the usual sugar glaze, and it added a definite caramel-like flavour that I’m encouraging you to try.

Gluten Free Buttermilk Loaf with Candied Ginger and Raisins 

This recipe uses simple ingredients that you most likely already have available. I’m using coconut sugar as I like its caramelised taste, but you’re welcome to add regular white sugar.

I used candied ginger and raisins in this recipe but you can use any dried fruit or keep it plain.

In a bowl combine flour, baking powder, salt and sugar.

In another bowl beat eggs with oil, buttermilk and vanilla.

Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into wet ones and mix well.

Add ginger pieces and raisins and mix to combine.

Line a baking loaf pan with parchment paper and pour batter in.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for about 50-55 minutes.

I doubled the recipe and made two loaves as they keep well on a counter or in the freezer.

Brush the tops with hot honey (optional).

Let the loaf cool a bit before slicing.

It’s full of sweet raisins and ginger spice.

Pour yourself a cup of coffee or tea and enjoy this delicious dessert.

I’m treating myself on this snowy day.