Warm summer days invite the opportunity to extend a spirit of heartfelt hospitality by welcoming friends and neighbors to your front porch for an impromptu moment of connection over sweet teas and a few thoughtful, make-ahead bites. The teas and treats were developed by our test kitchen to be made in advance, ready whenever you are. It’s a simple, graceful way to slow down, build community and share the love of Christ in everyday moments.
By
Kristi Chew
•
Summer 2025
Summer On the Porch
Warm summer days invite the opportunity to extend a spirit of heartfelt hospitality by welcoming friends and neighbors to your front porch for an impromptu moment of connection over sweet teas and a few thoughtful, make-ahead bites. The teas and treats were developed by our test kitchen to be made in advance, ready whenever you are. It’s a simple, graceful way to slow down, build community and share the love of Christ in everyday moments.
By
Kristi Chew
•
Summer 2025
Drinks
Peach Lavender Iced Tea
Peach tea bags (caffeine-free) form the base of this iced tea, complemented by a fragrant syrup made from fresh or frozen peach slices and dried lavender. The combination creates a beautiful, fragrant medley of summer flavors that’s both soothing and revitalizing, perfect for warm afternoons.
Steep hibiscus tea bags with yuzu bancha green tea bags (yuzu bancha is a slightly roasted green tea with a lemony flavor). Chill liquid tea, then just before serving mix in a sweet homemade strawberry syrup, fresh lemon juice and fresh strawberries for a sweet-tart drink that celebrates summer.
Clover honey enhances the natural undertones of English breakfast tea without overpowering it. Fresh grapefruit juice and basil give this sweet drink a tangy, herby flavor.
Steeping a generous amount of fresh mint leaves (4 cups) infuses this tea with a vibrant, aromatic flavor, balanced perfectly by the natural sweetness of honey and honeydew melon. The result is a refreshingly light and cooling summer sip that captures the essence of the season.
Thinly sliced cucumbers and radishes, topped with fresh herbs, are paired with herb-and-garlic spreadable cheese for a light, refreshing sandwich. Perfect for a quick, elegant bite to share.
These delicate madeleines are enhanced with a bright lime flavor, finished with a sweet glaze and a dusting of fresh lime zest for an irresistible treat.
These rich, decadent treats boast the deep flavors of cocoa, dark chocolate, and espresso, with browned butter in the batter adding an extra layer of richness and depth. They’re an enticing sweet bite any time.
The eggy filling of these savory quiches is a delightful blend of whipped cottage cheese, diced ham, red bell pepper, and creamy, nutty Gruyère cheese. Using refrigerated pie crusts, simply cut and bake them in muffin pans for a bite-sized, flavor-packed snack.