Reindeer Readathon Book: The Official Downton Abbey Afternoon Tea Cookbook

The reindeer guiding today's Reindeer Readathon choice was Comet. For Comet's book, we were instructed to choose a book we find intimidating. I chose a book that has 60 recipes for afternoon tea goodness, and a baker, I am not.

Few customs are more iconic of England than the afternoon tea. Everything about it - the etiquette, the fine English china, the sandwiches and cake - epitomizes some of the very best England has to offer. Downton Abbey gives the viewer a window into the tradition of this afternoon ritual both upstairs and downstairs. - Gareth Neame, executive producer, The Official Downton Abbey Afternoon Tea Cookbook.

The Official Downton Abbey Afternoon Tea Cookbook

I loved Downton Abbey!! In fact, I might be just about ready to watch it again.

I also love tea! So, I loved the idea of learning more about their afternoon tea ritual, and getting to take a peek at some of the recipes.

But to be honest, I went into it pretty sure I wouldn't actually try any of them, and so far, I have not. I still hope to, though. Someday. :)

And I did learn a lot about what afternoon tea was like during the historical time represented by the show. 

In the eighteenth century, it was common for fashionable ladies to get together at one another's homes for tea and conversation. Before that time, they had little or no social freedom and were often isolated. The safety of a nonalcoholic drink gave them the opportunity to gather and socialize.

Mrs. Patmore: I've got tea for all of us and a snack for you later on.

Mason: You're an angel of mercy.

​-Season 6: Episode 5

Would I Recommend it?

If you love tea, and have always wanted to try having a proper afternoon tea, then yes. Especially, if you are already a good home cook or baker.

Or, you know we are heading into lockdown and you're determined to master the craft of baking - which I am actually considering.

Here are a few of the recipes I still hope to make and blog about here, next year. They seem the most doable, and are ones I know I'd like eating...

cookies: Scottish shortbread, Prince of Wales Biscuits
tea sandwiches: not sure which ones yet

​If you only want the tea history and the energy of Downton Abbey, then you might not love it as much as you'd want to if you were going to buy it.

See you next time!

Love, Jeanine
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