Chocolate Chip Cake

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract and chocolate chips.
7. Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean.
8. Cool the cake completely in the pan before removing it and serving.

Serving suggestion:

Serve the chocolate chip cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Earl Gray and Fresh Figs

Ingredients:

• 4 Earl Grey tea bags
• 4 cups boiling water
• 4 ripe fresh figs, halved
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Place the Earl Grey tea bags in a large teapot or heat-safe pitcher.
2. Pour the boiling water over the tea bags and let steep for 5-7 minutes.
3. While the tea is steeping, heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Place the figs, cut side down, in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Remove the figs from the skillet and place them on a plate.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and cinnamon.
7. Drizzle the honey and cinnamon mixture over the figs.
8. Pour the Earl Grey tea into teacups and serve with the honey and cinnamon-drizzled fresh figs on the side.

Verdict:

The combination of the fragrant Earl Grey tea and the sweet, juicy fresh figs is a match made in heaven. The drizzle of honey and cinnamon adds an extra layer of flavor that takes this simple dessert to the next level.