Throw a Delightful Afternoon Tea Party With These Perfectly Treats
Afternoon tea is one of the most celebrated traditions in Britain, where friends and family get together for a few hours of conversation and treats. From classic sandwiches to delicious cakes and buns, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore what goes into a memorable afternoon tea experience.
What Is Afternoon Tea: What To Serve At An Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea, also known as ‘low tea,’ is a traditional light meal served mid-afternoon. It originated in England and is usually served on low tables, hence its two names. An afternoon tea menu typically consists of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream or jam, cakes such as lemon drizzle or Victoria sponge and other sweet snacks.
Popular teas to accompany these items include black teas like Earl Grey and Assam, as well as herbal teas like chamomile and mint. Historically, afternoon tea was considered a ladies’ social occasion, but today, it has become much more popular amongst all genders. All you need for an exquisite afternoon tea experience are some delicate china cups, saucers and cutlery, plus some calming music playing in the background.
Most Popular Afternoon Tea Snacks To Serve & Enjoy With Your Friends
When it comes to afternoon tea, there are no rules. All you need are you and your guests munching on one or more of the following;
Sandwiches
When it comes to afternoon tea, sandwiches are an essential part of the menu. From egg and cress club sandwiches to the best crab sandwiches, there is a wide selection of savoury treats to choose from. Egg-less mayo sandwiches, veggie BLT bagels and even Katsu Sandos make great vegetarian options.
Paneer and cheddar sandwiches are also a delicious choice that can easily be made ahead of time. You can get creative with your sandwich fillings by adding herbs, spices and other condiments to make them extra special. When assembling your sandwiches, try not to make them too long in order to avoid soggy bread when serving.
Scones
Scones are an essential part of afternoon tea. Whether they’re classic scones with jam and clotted cream, fruit scones or bakewell tart scones – there is something for everyone! Making the perfect scone can be tricky, but there are plenty of recipes available to help you get it right.
When making your scones, make sure to use cold butter and ensure that all ingredients are well-mixed. To create a light and fluffy texture, use a minimal amount of mixing and work the dough as little as possible. Cut out the desired shape with a cookie cutter and brush with egg wash before baking. Serve warm with lashings of cream and jam for the ultimate afternoon tea experience!
Teacakes & Buns
A delicious array of teacakes and buns are essential for the perfect afternoon tea. Whether you’re looking for something simple or something a bit more special, there is something to suit everyone.
Teacakes are a classic British treat with their spongy texture and sweet flavour, making them ideal for pairing with a cup of tea. Tea loaves, easy iced buns, Belgian buns and vegan hot cross buns all make great accompaniments to your afternoon tea spread. For something a bit more special, why not try Earl Grey teacakes, Stollen buns, St Lucia saffron buns or Ukrainian poppy seed buns?
Biscuits
Biscuits are a staple of afternoon tea, and there’s no denying that they make the perfect accompaniment to a hot cup of tea. From classic shortbreads to more adventurous flavours like chocolate and ginger, there are plenty of recipes out there to tantalise your taste buds.
When it comes to baking biscuits, the key is in the preparation. Ensure you get the measurements right, and use cold butter for the best results. Chilling ingredients in the fridge before baking will also help ensure that your biscuits retain their shape when baked.
Try experimenting with different types of flour, such as spelt or buckwheat, for an interesting flavour twist. If you’re looking for something special, why not try making cookie sandwiches with a delicious cream filling? Or add dried fruit or nuts for a bit of texture and crunch?
P'tisserie
P’tisserie is a type of French pastry that has taken the world by storm. From Parisian-style eclairs to miniature tarts, p’tisserie is the perfect way to add elegance and sophistication to any occasion. It’s no wonder why these delicate treats have become an essential part of afternoon tea.
Creating p’tisserie at home may seem daunting, but with some practice and patience, it can be surprisingly easy. Start with a classic recipe such as raspberry religieuse or vanilla custard slices, then move on to more advanced bakes like salted caramel & popcorn crumble choux buns or Chinon apple tarts. With the right ingredients and equipment, you’ll soon be creating delicious pastries worthy of a professional patissier!
Cakes
Cakes are a classic staple for any afternoon tea. Whether it’s a light and fluffy sponge or a decadent chocolate cake, you can never go wrong with this crowd-pleasing treat. For an extra special occasion, why not try baking one of the latest trends? From indulgent drip cakes to multi-tiered gateaux, there are plenty of creative recipes to choose from.
When it comes to decoration, have fun and be imaginative – add vibrant colours, fresh flowers or even edible glitter! If you don’t have much time to spare, opt for simpler designs such as buttercream swirls or marbled icing. To finish your masterpiece, why not add a personal touch with hand-piped lettering? With so many options available, you’re sure to create something truly unique and memorable.
Showstoppers
Showstoppers are the ultimate addition to any afternoon tea. From show-stopping Victoria sponges and red velvet cakes to meringue towers and macaroon pyramids, these treats will leave your guests in awe. Whether you’re a novice or an expert baker, there’s something for every skill level. For those looking for a challenge, why not try intricate designs such as Swiss rolls with delicate patterns? Or go all out with elaborate buttercream swags or pull-apart cupcakes that look almost too good to eat!
To add the wow factor, get creative with decorations and toppings. Use vibrant gel colours or fresh flowers to create beautiful designs that will impress your guests. If you prefer a more classic style, opt for marzipan fruits or hand-piped lettering – the possibilities are endless!
Enjoy Your Party
Throwing an afternoon tea party is a great way to show your friends and family how much you care. It’s all about the little details, so don’t be afraid to push the boat out at your next afternoon tea party; be inspired by some of these recipes and let your imagination run wild.
FAQs
What do ladies wear to afternoon tea?
Most afternoon tea venues have a relaxed, smart/casual dress code, so there are many different ways you can dress for afternoon tea. You could opt for a relaxed and easy look with a dress or skirt and shirt combination, or you can go slightly more formal with a trouser suit look.
What is the correct time for afternoon tea?
While both afternoon tea and high tea are served in the afternoon, one key difference between them is the time of day. Afternoon tea is typically served around 4 pm, while high tea tends to be served later in the afternoon (around 5- 7 pm).
What is the difference between high tea and afternoon tea?
Delectable scones, tea sandwiches, and cakes are the hallmark of an afternoon tea, which is served in midafternoon. A high tea, however, includes much more substantive fare, such as meat, fish, egg dishes, and breads and desserts, and is offered in the early evening.
