Are you ready to host a delightful afternoon tea party that will impress your friends and family? Look no further! We’ve gathered 18 elegant tea party recipes that are sure to make your gathering a memorable one. From classic English scones with clotted cream and jam, to innovative flavors like lemon lavender shortbread cookies and chai-spiced chiffon cake, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of tea party delights. We’ll explore sweet treats like strawberry rosewater cake and chocolate-dipped matcha biscotti, as well as savory options like smoked salmon and dill finger sandwiches and cucumber and cream cheese tea sandwiches. Whether you’re a seasoned host or just looking for some inspiration for your next gathering, these recipes are sure to impress.
So, put on your best china, grab your favorite teapot, and get ready to indulge in the most delightful afternoon tea party ever!
Classic English Scones with Clotted Cream and Jam
A traditional British treat that’s perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream or buttermilk
– Clotted cream and jam for serving (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in cream or buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times until it forms a cohesive ball.
6. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out scones.
7. Place scones on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve with:
– Clotted cream
– Your favorite jam (strawberry, raspberry, or orange marmalade are popular choices)
Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy cookies infused with the subtle charm of lavender. Perfect for a tea party or a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and lemon juice; mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in dried lavender buds and granulated sugar.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cucumber and Cream Cheese Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your tea party game with these delightful sandwiches that combine the cooling flavors of cucumber and cream cheese on soft bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of white or whole wheat bread
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread a small amount of butter or use non-stick cooking spray on each bread slice.
3. On two slices, spread a layer of cream cheese, about 1-2 tsp per slice.
4. Top the cream cheese with a few cucumber slices and a sprinkle of chopped dill.
5. Place the remaining bread slices on top to create a sandwich.
6. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Earl Grey Tea-Infused Madeleines
Elevate the classic French madeleine to new heights with the subtle flavor of Earl Grey tea. These delicate cakes are infused with the bergamot notes of the tea, creating a unique and delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk
– 2 teaspoons Earl Grey tea leaves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter and flour a madeleine pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and Earl Grey tea leaves. Let steep for 5 minutes.
4. Add the melted butter to the egg mixture and whisk until combined.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared madeleine pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Strawberry Rosewater Cake
This refreshing cake combines the sweetness of strawberries with the exotic flavor of rosewater, creating a unique and delightful dessert perfect for springtime celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1 teaspoon rosewater extract
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and rosewater extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; whisk until smooth.
5. Fold in sliced strawberries.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Dill Finger Sandwiches
These elegant finger sandwiches are perfect for your next gathering or special occasion. Smoky salmon, fresh dill, and creamy cream cheese come together to create a delightful flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 baguette, cut into finger-sized pieces (about 24-30 pieces)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the flaked salmon, softened cream cheese, and chopped fresh dill until well combined.
3. Split each baguette piece in half lengthwise.
4. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the salmon mixture onto each baguette half.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Matcha Biscotti
Elevate your biscotti game with the unique combination of green tea matcha and rich chocolate. This recipe yields a crunchy, nutty cookie that’s perfect for dunking in your favorite beverage.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon matcha powder
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add matcha powder; whisk until combined.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow biscuits to cool completely. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler; dip cooled biscuits halfway into the chocolate.
9. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mini Victoria Sponge Cakes
These bite-sized treats are a delightful twist on the classic Victoria sponge cake. With their tender texture and sweet flavor, they’re perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– Unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until smooth. Add softened butter and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey and Thyme Butter Cookies
Savor the sweet and savory combination of honey and thyme in these tender butter cookies, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add honey and thyme; mix until combined.
3. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Raspberry Almond Tartlets
Elevate your dessert game with these bite-sized tartlets featuring a sweet and tangy raspberry filling, crunchy almond crust, and a hint of lemon zest. Perfect for a party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Stir in sliced almonds and granulated sugar. Press mixture into mini tart pans or small cups.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
5. Allow tarts to cool completely. Fill with raspberry jam (homemade or store-bought) and top with fresh raspberries.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chai-Spiced Chiffon Cake
This moist and airy chiffon cake is infused with the warm, comforting flavors of chai spices, making it a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– Unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch (25cm) tube pan or Bundt pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cream of tartar, salt, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Gradually add milk, beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Add dry ingredients to egg mixture, folding until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pistachio and Rose Macarons
Pistachio and Rose Macarons Recipe
These delicate French meringue-based cookies are infused with the sweet flavors of pistachios and rose petals, perfect for a romantic dessert or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup (30g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– Food coloring (pink)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whip egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Add cream of tartar and mix well.
5. Fold in pistachios and rosewater.
6. Add a few drops of pink food coloring to tint the mixture.
7. Pipe small rounds onto prepared baking sheet.
8. Tap baking sheet gently to remove air bubbles.
9. Let macarons sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour to form skin.
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until firm and lightly golden.
11. Allow to cool completely before filling with your desired cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orange Blossom Tea Cakes
Brighten up your day with these moist and flavorful tea cakes infused with the sweetness of orange blossom water.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, milk, egg, and orange blossom water until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the tea cakes to cool on a wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Quiche Lorraine Bites
Mini Quiche Lorraine Bites Recipe
Summary: These bite-sized quiches are a delightful twist on the classic French dish, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
• 1 9-inch pie crust, rolled out to 1/8-inch thickness
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh scallions (green onions)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the pie crust into 12 equal squares.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Gruyère cheese, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the crust over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape; press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with a little water and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Blueberry Lemon Curd Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the sweetness of blueberries with the tanginess of lemon curd, making them a perfect treat for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/2 cup lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in blueberries and lemon curd.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
8. Allow muffins to cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vanilla Bean Scones with Berries
Start your day off right with these sweet and flaky vanilla bean scones, perfectly topped with a mix of fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– Fresh berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries), for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, egg, and vanilla bean seeds.
5. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir until dough forms.
6. Pat dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter to cut out shapes.
7. Place scones on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chamomile Honey Butter Scones
Soften your morning with these delicate scones infused with the soothing aroma of chamomile and the sweetness of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon dried chamomile flowers
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and egg. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Stir in chamomile flowers and honey.
6. Turn dough onto a floured surface; gently knead 2-3 times.
7. Pat into an 8-inch circle. Cut into 8 wedges.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each scone.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Mini Chocolate Éclairs with Tea-Infused Cream
Mini Chocolate Éclairs with Tea-Infused Cream Recipe
Elevate your dessert game with these bite-sized éclairs, filled with a rich tea-infused cream and topped with velvety chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini puff pastry sheets (about 20-25 sheets)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons loose-leaf black tea (such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out each puff pastry sheet into a thin sheet. Place a small spoonful of tea-infused cream in the center of each sheet. Fold the pastry over the filling, forming a triangle or a square shape, and press the edges together to seal. Brush the tops with a little water and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Allow the éclairs to cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Dip the top of each cooled éclair into the melted chocolate and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
Tea-Infused Cream:
– Brew 2 cups of strong black tea according to package instructions.
– In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Add sugar, vanilla extract, and brewed tea. Whip until smooth and creamy.
Summary
Indulge in a delightful afternoon with these elegant tea party recipes. From classic English scones to lemon lavender shortbread cookies, and from cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches to strawberry rosewater cake, there’s something for everyone. These 18 recipes offer a range of sweet and savory options that are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a formal afternoon tea or just looking for some inspiration for a cozy cuppa at home, these treats are sure to delight.
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