Indulging in the quintessential charm of afternoon tea is a treasured experience for many. While it’s delightful to gather with friends at an upscale hotel, there are equally satisfying ways to recreate your favorite hotel-style teas from the comfort of your own home. The question is, which recipes reign supreme? Whether you’re tasked with hosting a themed gathering or simply seeking to expand your afternoon tea repertoire, we’ve got the perfect solutions.
This post delves into the crème de la crème of afternoon tea party recipes, guaranteeing that you’ll discover a treasure trove of ideas to savor and delight in.
Mini Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs – a classic party favorite that can be a bit finicky to prepare. But fear not, as this recipe provides foolproof instructions to ensure you serve deviled eggs that are restaurant-quality and impress your guests. A key tip is to use eggs that are at least two weeks old, as fresh eggs can be challenging to peel.
This simplicity-focused recipe requires only 6 ingredients – likely already in your kitchen – and breaks down the process into easy-to-follow steps suitable for cooks of all levels.
Cucumber Finger Sandwiches
When it comes to afternoon tea parties, there’s one classic staple that stands the test of time: cucumber finger sandwiches. This delightful offering has been a British tradition since the 1800s, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. The absence of crusts makes it a light and refreshing choice, perfect for balancing out the richer options often found on an afternoon tea spread.
If you’re looking to add some excitement to your cucumber finger sandwiches, consider giving them a spicy twist by sprinkling chili flakes over the cucumber slices. While this may not be everyone’s cup of tea, the combination of cool cucumber and warm chili can add a delightful depth of flavor – especially when paired with brown bread.
Tuna Salad Finger Sandwiches
While traditional tuna salad finger sandwiches can be a bit dull, this recipe adds a twist by incorporating unexpected flavors like paprika, peppers, onions, and chopped olives. The result is a deliciously different take on the classic sandwich. For added depth of flavor, we recommend using white bread, although brown bread also works well.
If you’re planning to serve these sandwiches at an afternoon tea party, canned tuna is the way to go – it’s quick and easy to prepare, taking just 20 minutes or so.
Petit Fours!
Indulge in the delightful combination of a warm cup of tea and the sweet, airy delight of petit fours. These French pastry cakes are the perfect accompaniment to a finger sandwich-filled afternoon with friends. The light, fluffy texture and rich sweetness make them impossible to resist – your guests will be begging for seconds!
If you’re new to petit fours, you’ll find that they typically boast a velvety white chocolate coating, concealing a treasure trove of freshly whipped buttercream and luscious raspberry jam inside. Of course, feel free to customize the fillings to suit your taste – but trust us, this classic combination is a timeless treat.
Gouda And Apple Finger Sandwiches
Why settle for the usual fare when you can wow your guests with a unique twist on traditional finger sandwiches? Consider adding Gouda and apple finger sandwiches to your lineup, which may not be the most common offerings at afternoon tea parties but are surprisingly delightful. The sweet and savory combination of flavors pairs perfectly with herbal, black, and Earl Grey teas, making for a refreshing and memorable experience.
Caramel Bundt Bitesize Cakes
When hosting an afternoon tea party for guests with a penchant for sweet treats, these bite-sized caramel bundt cakes are sure to impress. Not only do they boast a visually appealing presentation that makes them perfect for serving as a table centerpiece, but their scrumptious flavor combination is also sure to delight. The moist chocolate sponge cake is perfectly complemented by the rich, homemade caramel frosting sauce, creating a truly mouthwatering experience.
For an added touch of luxury, consider serving these sweet treats with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. Keep in mind that preparing these cakes does require some advance planning, so be sure to allocate sufficient time to get everything just right before your big event.
Double Chocolate Mini Bites
Indulge in the sweet treats with this double chocolate mini bite recipe, perfect for an afternoon tea party that’s sure to impress. The layers of rich chocolate, creamy white chocolate, and decadent buttercream will delight your guests. But it’s not just the taste that will win them over – the adorable toppings, including colorful sprinkles, will make these little cakes a social media sensation.
Downton Abbey Egg Salad Finger Sandwiches
As you prepare for an afternoon tea party, why not pay homage to the beloved British period drama Downton Abbey with a delicious egg salad finger sandwich recipe? This delectable creation is inspired by the Crawleys’ own culinary endeavors and is sure to impress your guests. With only a few ingredients and no crust required, these sandwiches are surprisingly easy to make – but don’t let their simplicity fool you, as they’re packed with flavor and pair perfectly with a variety of teas.
So why not treat your friends to a taste of Downton Abbey-inspired elegance this afternoon?
Mini Red And Blue Cupcakes
As we continue to explore the delightful world of British afternoon tea treats, we’re thrilled to share our discovery of charming red and blue cupcakes that are sure to steal the show. These bite-sized beauties boast velvety buttercream frosting, a symphony of vibrant blue and red hues, and a simplicity that belies their scrumptiousness. With just a few ingredients required for preparation, these mini marvels are poised to become the crowning glory of any afternoon tea spread.
Avocado And Dill Sandwiches
When it comes to afternoon tea events, cucumber sandwiches are a classic choice. However, if you’re looking to offer your guests something new and exciting, consider serving avocado and dill sandwiches instead. These refreshing finger sandwiches are not only easy to make but also cater to vegetarians. They pair beautifully with a range of teas, making them an excellent alternative to traditional options. To take it up a notch, you can even add a sprinkle of mint for an extra burst of freshness.
With their unique flavor profile and versatility, avocado and dill sandwiches are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Banbury Apple Pie
Indulge in the regal delight of Banbury apple pie, a beloved English dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. This sweet treat is perfect for sharing, as it can be cut into bite-sized portions that are fit for a queen – or in this case, your honored dinner companions.
Vanilla Cake Bites
In any afternoon tea recipe collection, a classic vanilla cake is a must-have. To keep things straightforward, we’ve chosen this simple yet impressive vanilla cake bites recipe. With just a handful of essential ingredients, it’s a breeze to prepare. What’s more, the versatility of these bite-sized treats allows you to get creative with an array of stunning toppings for added visual flair.
Butterscotch Pie
While traditional afternoon tea spreads often feature scones, finger sandwiches, and dainty pastries, sweet pies have become a modern favorite among partygoers. If you’re looking to impress your guests with a show-stopping homemade dessert, consider whipping up a decadent butterscotch pie that’s sure to satisfy their sweet tooth. The recipe is just a click away – simply head to the link below to get started!
Old Fashioned Cherry Cake
This classic cherry cake recipe is a timeless delight, boasting a tender crumb and an irresistible sweetness courtesy of its succulent cherry topping. Its simplicity and speed make it perfect for impromptu gatherings or family treats. As each guest takes their first bite, the symphony of flavors will surely impress.
Shortbread Cookies With Lemon Glaze
There’s a harmonious match made in heaven when Earl Grey tea meets shortbread cookies topped with a zesty lemon glaze. This delightful dessert combination never fails to please even the most discerning palates. What’s more, this straightforward recipe is an excellent introduction to baking for those just starting out.
Battenberg Cake
Elevate your afternoon tea experience with the classic British delight, Battenberg cake. This visually stunning treat not only tantalizes the taste buds but also adds a pop of color to any celebration. Traditionally, Battenberg cakes feature a pink and yellow striped design, but you can easily customize the colors using your preferred food coloring shades.
This recipe combines the rich flavors of marzipan and apricot jam, making it a surefire hit with anyone who tries it.
With its unique patterned design and delicious flavor profile, Battenberg cake is an excellent choice for any occasion.
Crab Salad Sandwiches
While not every palate may crave the ocean’s bounty, seafood remains an iconic presence at traditional afternoon tea gatherings. If you’re looking to impress your guests with a delightful and refreshing addition to your spread, look no further than these scrumptious crab salad sandwiches, sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Shrimp And Basil Sandwiches
As a complement to our seafood-themed spread, we’ve chosen these mouthwatering shrimp and basil sandwiches as a must-try. To prepare this delectable combination, you’ll need to gather an assortment of ingredients such as green onion, parsley, lemon juice, and of course, pre-cooked shrimp for added convenience. We assure you that your guests – especially any seafood enthusiasts in the group – will be thoroughly impressed with this delightful offering.
Lemon Cookies
Indulge in the tangy delight of our scrumptious lemon cookies! This sweet treat requires a drizzle of zesty lemon glaze, striking a perfect balance between subtle sweetness and refreshing tartness. Pair them with your favorite herbal tea for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Brownie Bites
An afternoon tea isn’t complete without a decadent chocolate dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth. And we’re not kidding when we say our brownie bites recipe is the perfect addition to any tea party. With its rich, fudge-like center and bursts of dark chocolate chips, this indulgent treat is sure to have your guests going back for seconds – if they can resist the temptation long enough! To get started, simply click on ‘Go To Recipe’ below.
Blackberry Jam
While it’s convenient to purchase jam at the grocery store, taking the time to create your own homemade jam can elevate your hosting skills and leave a lasting impression on your guests. In fact, this recipe for blackberry jam is surprisingly straightforward and versatile, making it perfect for topping not only scones, but also a range of other sweet and savory treats.
Mini Chocolate Cakes
There’s no afternoon tea without a sweet surprise – and that’s where rich, velvety chocolate comes in. For an unforgettable spread, you can’t go wrong with these indulgent mini chocolate cakes. By following the easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be impressing your guests with these bite-sized treats in no time.
Turkey And Apple Sandwiches
At many an afternoon tea party, it’s not just sweet indulgences that take center stage. Finger sandwiches, a classic combination of flavors and textures, also make a welcome appearance. Among the most popular varieties are turkey and apple finger sandwiches, which pair exquisitely with black tea. The perfect harmony of savory and sweet flavors makes for a truly satisfying experience.
Smoked Salmon Finger Sandwiches
Elevate your afternoon tea offerings by incorporating the rich flavors of the sea. Smoked salmon finger sandwiches provide an excellent opportunity to diversify your menu and tantalize your guests’ taste buds. For a comprehensive guide on preparing these delectable treats, simply click the ‘Go To Recipe’ link below.
Simple Scones
While it’s impossible to imagine a traditional afternoon tea without scones, many people opt for store-bought options rather than taking the time to bake their own. However, with this simple recipe, you can easily make delicious scones from scratch and elevate your afternoon tea game. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a homemade touch to their favorite tea-time tradition.
Vegan Lemon Bars
Seeking a plant-based option to delight your visitors? Look no further than these creamy vegan lemon bars, which perfectly blend the brightness of citrus with the richness of dairy-free goodness. Suitable for vegan guests, this recipe is a wonderful addition to any gathering.
Shortbread Biscuits
Incorporating the quintessential charm of British culture, shortbread biscuits embody a rich buttery flavor reminiscent of sugar cookies. This versatile treat effortlessly pairs with an array of sweet and savory delights, beautifully complementing popular tea options like Earl Grey. By including them in your afternoon tea spread, you can be certain that your guests will thoroughly enjoy the experience, eagerly devouring every last morsel.
Mini Cheesecakes
Indulge in the creamy delight of cheesecake, but with a lighter twist! Mini cheesecake bites are an ideal treat for a refreshing afternoon tea. The recipe we’re sharing can be perfectly paired with strawberry jam, or alternatively, try it with raspberry or apricot for added flavor variety. A top tip to keep in mind is to allow your cheesecakes to set for a few hours before serving them at your afternoon tea event. This will ensure the perfect texture and a delightful experience for your guests.
Bacon Quiche
One of the greatest advantages of this quiche recipe is its adaptability and customizability. The inclusion of crispy bacon bits adds a depth of flavor, but it’s not the only option – you can easily modify the recipe to suit your guests’ tastes and dietary needs. Consider adding other ingredients like spinach, cheese, mushrooms, or any other favorites to create a truly unique quiche experience.
What’s more, the bite-sized nature of these quiches ensures that your guests can enjoy them without feeling overwhelmed by a large serving size.
Lemon Meringue Bites
Even the most novice bakers can easily create a delectable lemon meringue dessert with this recipe. By leveraging pre-baked tart bases, the preparation process becomes remarkably straightforward. While you’ll still need to prepare the curd yourself, the convenience factor is undeniable. To take these lemon meringue bites to the next level, consider topping them with fresh berries such as strawberries, blackberries, or blueberries.
The sweet and tangy flavors of the lemon curd are beautifully balanced by the fruity additions, creating a delightful harmony that pairs perfectly with a variety of teas – from classic black tea to herbal infusions.
Wrapping Up
Now it’s your turn! While treating yourself to a traditional afternoon tea at a hotel or restaurant can be a lovely experience, we’re confident that the variety of recipes above will have inspired you to create your own versions from the comfort of home. As you’ve seen, there are countless ways to recreate these delightful treats and bring the essence of a charming afternoon tea to your very own gathering.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.