The quintessential British tradition of Afternoon Tea has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of people around the world. There’s something undeniably elegant and soothing about gathering with friends or family to indulge in a delightful spread of sweet and savory treats, accompanied by a steaming pot of tea.
As we gather inspiration from this beloved custom, we’re excited to share our collection of 20 Delightful Afternoon Tea Recipes that are sure to impress your guests. From classic scones to innovative takes on traditional favorites, these recipes showcase the perfect balance of flavors and textures to make your afternoon tea gathering truly unforgettable.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of Afternoon Tea, exploring a range of mouthwatering options that are sure to delight even the most discerning palates. So sit back, put the kettle on, and let’s get started with our top 20 recipes for an unforgettable afternoon tea experience!
Classic English Scones with Clotted Cream and Jam
There’s nothing quite like a warm, flaky scone slathered in rich clotted cream and topped with sweet jam for a quintessential British treat. This classic recipe yields tender, buttery scones that are perfect for serving at tea time or as a snack any time of day.
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
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 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 and stir until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead a few times until it becomes smooth and pliable.
6. Pat dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter to create rounds.
7. Place scones on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Earl Grey Tea-Infused Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your baking game with these buttery shortbread cookies infused with the subtle citrus flavor of Earl Grey tea. Perfect for a afternoon treat or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon Earl Grey tea leaves (loose or in tea bags)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Steep Earl Grey tea leaves in the dough for 5 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Cucumber and Cream Cheese Finger Sandwiches
These light and flavorful sandwiches are perfect for a quick snack or a elegant party appetizer. The combination of cool cucumber, creamy cream cheese, and crispy bread is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices (about 12-15 slices)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese and chopped dill until well combined.
2. Spread about 1/4 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture onto each baguette slice.
3. Top with a cucumber slice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Lemon Drizzle Cake with a Hint of Lavender
Brighten up your day with this delightful citrus cake infused with the subtle sweetness of lavender. This refreshing dessert is perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add lemon juice and lavender buds; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Dill Tea Sandwiches
A refreshing twist on classic tea sandwiches, these bite-sized delights combine the rich flavor of smoked salmon with the bright freshness of dill. Perfect for a light and elegant luncheon or afternoon gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 slices white bread (preferably a crustless bread)
– Tea sandwiches trimmings: thinly sliced cucumber, sprigs of fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together smoked salmon, softened butter, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread the mixture evenly onto each slice of bread.
3. Top with thinly sliced cucumber and a sprig of fresh parsley.
4. Cut into desired shapes or squares for serving.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (assembly only)
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Tartlets
Elevate your dessert game with these bite-sized treats that combine the sweetness of strawberries and chocolate. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a special treat for yourself!
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 12-15 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 12-15 squares.
3. Place a strawberry slice in the center of each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around it.
4. Fold pastry squares into triangles and press edges to seal. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Dip cooled tartlets into melted chocolate, letting excess drizzle off.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Victoria Sponge Cakes with Fresh Berries
These bite-sized sponge cakes are a delightful twist on the classic Victoria sponge, filled with sweet and tangy fresh berries. Perfect for a dessert or snack, these mini treats are easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– Fresh berries of your choice (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
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 milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among mini muffin cups.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely before filling with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Homemade Raspberry Macarons
Elevate your baking skills with this simple recipe for homemade raspberry macarons, perfect for a sweet treat or special occasion. With their delicate texture and bursting flavor, these meringue-based confections are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 1/2 cups (200g) powdered sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Food coloring (optional)
– Fresh raspberries for filling
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 powdered sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue whipping until smooth.
4. Fold in softened butter and vanilla extract. Add food coloring (if desired).
5. Pipe small circles onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Tap baking sheet gently to remove air bubbles.
7. Let macarons sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour, or until the tops are dry and “feet” form.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until firm to touch.
9. Allow macarons to cool completely before filling with fresh raspberries.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orange and Almond Madeleines
These delicate French cakes are infused with the warmth of orange zest and the crunch of toasted almonds, perfect for a sunny afternoon treat or a elegant dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped toasted almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter and flour a madeleine pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, orange juice, zest, and salt.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth.
4. Fold in melted butter and chopped almonds.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pistachio and Rosewater Financiers
These bite-sized financiers are infused with the nutty flavor of pistachios and the subtle sweetness of rosewater, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup (60g) ground pistachios
– 1 tsp rosewater
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a mini muffin tin and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and egg whites until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, pistachios, and rosewater; whisk until combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 of the way.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until financiers are golden brown and firm to the touch.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chai-Spiced Tea Loaf with Vanilla Glaze
This moist and aromatic loaf combines the comforting flavors of chai spices with the sweetness of vanilla, perfect for a chilly day or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before drizzling with Vanilla Glaze (recipe below).
Vanilla Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whisk together ingredients until smooth and drizzle over cooled loaf.
Blueberry and Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies
Brighten up your day with these tender and tangy thumbprint cookies, filled with a sweet blueberry and lemon curd surprise. Perfect for a quick snack or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup blueberry curd (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– 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, sugar, and softened butter until a dough forms.
3. Add egg and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Use your thumb or a spoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie.
6. Fill each cookie with a small amount of blueberry curd and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Mousse Cups
A refreshing and light dessert perfect for warm weather, these matcha green tea mousse cups are infused with the subtle flavors of lemon and ginger. With only a few ingredients, you can easily create these delightful treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons matcha powder
– 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 12-15 small cups or ramekins
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and whole milk until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together matcha powder, sugar, grated ginger, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Fold the matcha mixture into the whipped cream mixture until smooth and airy.
4. Spoon the mousse into prepared cups or ramekins.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets: A Sweet and Savory Delight!
These bite-sized tartlets are the perfect combination of sweet caramelized onions, tangy goat cheese, and flaky pastry. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Roll out the puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
4. Place a spoonful of caramelized onions onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges. Top with crumbled goat cheese.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry square over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle. Press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and season with salt and pepper.
7. Place tartlets on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Black Forest Mini Trifles
These bite-sized treats capture the essence of the classic Black Forest cake, with layers of moist chocolate cake, whipped cream, and cherry filling. Perfect for a party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of chocolate cake mix
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cherries
– Whipped cream and additional cherries for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare cake mix according to package instructions.
2. Cut the cooled cake into small cubes.
3. In a separate bowl, whip heavy whipping cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold in maraschino cherry juice and chopped cherries.
5. Assemble mini trifles by layering cake, whipped cream mixture, and additional cherries in small glasses or cups.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on the size of your cakes)
Lavender Honey Butter Cookies
These tender cookies are infused with the subtle sweetness of lavender and the warmth of honey, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these delightful morsels in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lavender syrup (or dried lavender buds)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 large egg
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add lavender syrup or dried lavender buds; mix well.
4. Beat in honey and egg.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Mini Banoffee Pie Bites
These bite-sized treats are a delightful twist on the classic banoffee pie, perfect for parties or snacks. With their gooey caramel and toasted nuts, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini graham crackers (about 20-25 crackers)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the graham crackers on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and brown sugar until well combined. Spread evenly over the graham crackers.
4. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until the crackers are lightly toasted and the caramel is bubbly.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped nuts and drizzle with caramel sauce.
6. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Champagne and Strawberry Jelly Cups
Elevate your dessert game with these elegant and delicious Champagne and Strawberry Jelly Cups. Perfect for special occasions or a quick indulgence, these bite-sized treats combine the sweetness of strawberries with the sophistication of champagne.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strawberry jelly
– 1/2 cup champagne (or sparkling wine)
– 12-15 mini cups or ramekins
– Fresh strawberry slices and whipped cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the strawberry jelly and champagne until well combined.
2. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the jelly-champagne mixture into each mini cup or ramekin.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with fresh strawberry slices and whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply assemble and chill until ready to serve.
White Chocolate and Cranberry Scones
These sweet and tangy scones are perfect for a cozy morning treat or as a delicious addition to your favorite brunch. The combination of white chocolate chips and dried cranberries creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to please.
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 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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 fingers to work into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream and egg. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in white chocolate chips and cranberries.
6. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
7. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick.
8. Cut into 8 wedges and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each scone.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Spiced Apple and Walnut Tea Cake
Warm up with this moist and flavorful tea cake, infused with the sweetness of apples and the crunch of walnuts. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add the flour mixture, apples, walnuts, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the quintessential charm of afternoon tea with these 20 delightful recipes. From classic scones with clotted cream and jam to elegant shortbread cookies infused with Earl Grey tea, every treat is designed to delight. Sandwiches feature smoked salmon and dill, while cakes and tarts showcase flavors like lemon drizzle, lavender, and orange almond. Financiers, madeleines, and macarons add a touch of French flair, while jelly cups and trifles bring whimsy to the table. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, these recipes are sure to impress.
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