I suppose the whole notion of tea at 4 pm feels like something from a slower, less frantic era. Indulgent whatever you have on your plate. In my house, it is rarely more than a single slice of cake, but this is also my favorite time to entertain, to pass around plates of classic baking for all-comers.
I am not big on eating dessert after supper, but others will feel robbed if there isn't something sweet with which to sign off their evening meal. Ideally, it is something that will work for both dessert and a mid-morning break the following day. Some sort of meringue fits the bill (not too heavy and will keep for a day or so). A treat that can be served in thin slices with cream and fruit, or trickled with melted chocolate the next day.
Special occasion breakfast: butternut squash and crisp pancetta tarts (pictured above) A morning treat for when friends are staying. If you can get organized the night before, these tarts can be on the table in the morning; otherwise, they make a fine light lunch. Make the pastry cases the night before, so you have only to fill and bake them the first thing the next day. Makes 6
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