What to Serve with Tea: 25+ Tea Party Food Ideas for Afternoon Tea
Want to know what to serve with tea? Planning the perfect tea party involves more than just selecting the finest teas; it’s about creating a delightful experience for your guests.
Crafting a well-thought-out tea party menu is essential.
Join us on a journey to discover a curated selection of finger foods that will not only complement your favorite brews but also elevate your party to an exquisite celebration that is sure to be enjoyable for all your guests.
Here’s the scoop on what to serve with tea!
Afternoon Tea Party Foods That Are Savory and Sweet
Cucumber Rye Tea Sandwiches
Cucumber rye tea sandwiches stand out as a classic and refreshing addition to any celebration, embodying the essence of timeless elegance in tea party recipes.
These dainty sandwiches are a delightful marriage of crisp cucumber slices and subtly tangy cream cheese, perfectly nestled between layers of flavorful rye bread.
Egg Salad Sandwiches
Egg salad sandwiches epitomize the charm of simple recipes, offering a classic and comforting option that effortlessly satisfies the palate.
With a nostalgic touch, these sandwiches are a nod to uncomplicated culinary delights, perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of straightforward and delicious meals.
Crafted with a creamy and flavorful egg salad, these sandwiches are a harmonious blend of finely chopped hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings, nestled between slices of soft and comforting white bread or wheat bread.
What to Serve with Tea: Lemon Cream Scones
Lemon cream scones, with their delicate crumb and citrus-infused charm, stand as an irresistible addition to any pastry lover’s repertoire or an exquisite afternoon tea menu.
The Lemon Cream Scones features a tender and flaky texture, achieved through a careful blending of butter and cream.
What sets them apart is the zesty twist of fresh lemon zest, infusing each bite with a burst of citrusy brightness.
Classic Deviled Eggs
Classic deviled eggs are a timeless and crowd-pleasing appetizer that graces tables at various gatherings and events.
What makes these deviled eggs particularly appealing is not just their rich and creamy filling but also their simplicity, with a surprisingly short prep time that allows for quick and easy party planning.
What to Serve with Tea: Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies
Earl Grey shortbread cookies are a delightful and sophisticated addition to any tea time or traditional tea gathering.
Among the best tea party recipes, these cookies stand out for their unique infusion of Earl Grey tea, adding a touch of elegance and a hint of citrusy bergamot to the classic shortbread.
The marriage of the delicate, crumbly texture of shortbread with the distinctive flavor of the tea creates a cookie that is both refined and comforting.
Crinkle Top Brownie Bites
Crinkle top brownie bites, with their irresistible combination of fudgy richness and a distinctive crinkled surface, promise to be not just a treat for your taste buds but an experience that’s truly enjoyable for your guests.
These bite-sized delights encapsulate the essence of indulgence in every mouthful, making them a perfect addition to any gathering or dessert spread.
Lemon Blueberry Bundt Cakes
This Bundt Cake is poised to steal the spotlight, bringing a burst of citrusy brightness and the allure of plump, juicy blueberries to the dessert table.
These individual bundt cakes effortlessly blend the zesty notes of lemon with the sweet-tart essence of blueberries, creating a harmonious flavor profile that is both refreshing and indulgent.
Homemade Lemon Curd Spread for Biscuit or Scone
You can’t have a tea party without the exquisite addition of homemade lemon curd spread, a luxurious accompaniment designed to elevate your teatime experience.
This velvety, citrus-infused spread is a culinary masterpiece, seamlessly marrying the zesty brightness of lemons with a rich and velvety texture that promises to transform any biscuit or scone into a delicacy fit for royalty.
Strawberry Tea Cake Topped with Fresh Strawberries
This exquisite confection is a testament to the art of baking, combining the irresistible sweetness of ripe strawberries with the tender, moist crumb of a perfectly crafted cake.
Elevate your event to a realm of pure indulgence with this dessert that embodies the spirit of summer and celebration.
Smoked Salmon Sandwich
These little sandwiches are a perfect blend of sophistication and simplicity, making them the ideal choice for a gathering of discerning palates.
Begin with the foundation of this culinary creation – two slices of bread, carefully selected to provide the perfect canvas for the ensemble of flavors that will follow.
Opt for a high-quality bread, perhaps a lightly toasted whole grain or a delicate rye, to add a subtle texture that complements the richness of the smoked salmon.
To enhance the savory notes of the salmon, consider adding a dollop of creamy spread – perhaps a dill-infused cream cheese or a zesty lemon aioli.
What to Serve with Tea: Asparagus Dill Quiche
Make your celebration even more spectacular by adding an asparagus dill quiche to the menu.
Start with the foundation of this gastronomic masterpiece – a buttery, flaky crust that cradles the luscious filling.
The crust, golden and delicate, is a testament to the art of pastry-making, promising a textural contrast that complements the richness of the quiche.
Now, turn your attention to the star ingredient: asparagus. These vibrant green spears, tender and flavorful, are thinly sliced to ensure an even distribution throughout the quiche.
Their natural essence infuses the filling with a subtle sweetness and a gentle crunch, adding layers of complexity to each mouthful.
Meringue Cookies
Meringue, crafted from the simplest of ingredients – egg whites and sugar – transforms into clouds of sweetness, achieving a perfect balance of lightness and decadence.
The cookies, piped into whimsical shapes, beckon with their alluring textures and a promise of indulgence.
As your guests arrive, the air is filled with the delightful aroma of these sweet treats.
Cream Cheese Bagel
Keep things simple with a timeless classic – the Cream Cheese Bagel.
In a world filled with complex flavors and intricate recipes, this humble yet satisfying creation stands as a testament to the beauty of simplicity.
Begin with the foundation of this breakfast favorite – a perfectly toasted bagel. The crisp exterior gives way to a soft, doughy center, creating a harmonious textural symphony that provides the ideal canvas for what’s to come.
Whether you opt for plain or flavored cream cheese, the result is a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate.
What to Serve with Tea: Fruit Tea Tart
At the heart of this exquisite creation lies a crisp and buttery tart crust, a canvas eagerly awaiting the burst of colors and flavors that fresh fruit promises to bring.
The artful arrangement of berries, sliced peaches, or any seasonal favorites transforms the tart into a visual feast, each piece of fruit contributing its unique hue and taste to the overall composition.
Homemade Matcha Whipped Cream
So, you’re on this journey of trying out new recipes, right? Well, buckle up because this one’s a keeper.
Picture this: you’ve got a bowl of heavy cream, a touch of sweetness, and a generous sprinkle of vibrant green matcha powder. That’s the magic combo for your Homemade Matcha Whipped Cream.
The earthy, slightly bitter notes of matcha bring a whole new dimension to the creamy goodness, turning it into a flavor powerhouse.
A bit of sugar or honey will balance out the boldness of the matcha, giving you a perfectly sweetened cloud of green goodness.
Blueberry Yogurt Cake
This game-changing cake is about to make your taste buds do a happy dance and the best part? It doesn’t take long to make.
First off, gather your usual suspects: flour, sugar, eggs. But here’s where it gets interesting. Toss in a generous amount of creamy yogurt.
The yogurt not only adds a delightful tang but also keeps things moist and fluffy. It’s like a secret weapon for baking success.
Scatter those juicy blue gems into the batter, and suddenly, your cake is transformed into a burst of fruity goodness.
What to Serve with Tea: Apple Tea Cake
if you’re looking for a quick way to impress your taste buds, the apple tea cake is a winner.
So, imagine this: you’ve got a bunch of crisp apples, right? Peel, slice, and set those beauties aside.
Now, let’s whip up a batter that’s as easy as making friends.
Flour, sugar, eggs – the usual suspects – and a bit of cinnamon for that cozy, warm hug. Mix it all up, and you’ve basically mastered the hardest part.
Now, the apples join the party. Toss them in, and let them mingle with the batter.
It’s like they’re getting ready for the tastiest group hug ever.
Slice yourself a piece, maybe add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling fancy.
Easy Ham Biscuit Sliders that are Bite-size
Let’s talk about a snack that’s easy to prepare: the Easy Ham Biscuit Sliders. We’re talking bite-sized delights that practically prepare themselves.
If you’re all about minimum effort and maximum flavor, these little guys are your new best friends.
Take some fluffy biscuits, the kind that practically begs to be sandwiched around something tasty. Slice those bad boys in half – no need to be delicate, we’re keeping it casual.
Now, grab some savory ham. Deli-style, honey-glazed, or whatever tickles your taste buds.
Pile it generously on the biscuit halves.
While they’re getting all toasty and melty, you’ve got time to kick back or whip up a quick dipping sauce if you’re feeling fancy. Maybe a honey mustard or a garlic aioli?
Tea Cake Cookies
These cookies have a subtle sophistication that’s all about charm and flavor.
Picture yourself dunking one of these cookies into a cup of your favorite tea. The flavors intermingle in a dance that’s both comforting and indulgent.
These cookies are like little pillows of delight – soft, tender, and just the right amount of crumbly.
And the flavor? It’s all about the subtlety.
Not too sweet, not too overpowering – just a perfect dance of vanilla, butter, and maybe a hint of almond.
Smoked Turkey and Apple Finger Sandwiches
We’re diving into the world of tea sandwich recipes, and trust me, this one is a game-changer.
Picture this: thin slices of smoky turkey, crisp apple matchsticks, and a spread that’s a flavor symphony of creamy and tangy.
Now, imagine all that goodness tucked between two slices of your favorite bread, cut into dainty finger-sized pieces.
The smoked turkey brings a savory depth, and when it meets the sweet, crunchy bite of apple, it’s like a flavor fireworks show.
It’s the kind of combo that’ll have you thinking, “Why haven’t I tried this before?”
Black Tea Cake with Honey Buttercream
Let’s talk about a snack that’s about to steal the spotlight – the Black Tea Cake with Honey Buttercream. This is not your average cake; it’s like the VIP of tea party snacks.
This is a rich, moist cake infused with the deep, comforting flavor of black tea. It’s like your favorite cuppa decided to join the party in cake form.
And trust me, it’s a flavor journey you’ll want to embark on.
Now, let’s talk about that honey buttercream. It’s smooth, it’s luscious, and it’s kissed with the golden sweetness of honey.
The kind of frosting dreams are made of. Each bite is a perfect balance of tea-infused cake and creamy heaven.
What to Serve with Tea: Tangy Lemon Bars
Tangy lemon bars are little squares of sunshine that are the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
The magic happens when you sink your teeth into one of these bars. The initial crunch of the crust gives way to the bright burst of tangy lemon filling.
It’s a sensory delight that hits all the right notes – sweet, tart, and utterly satisfying.
Brown Sugar Cashew Brittle
The brown sugar cashew brittle is the snack that’s the perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and oh-so-crunchy. Seriously, it’s like a flavor explosion in every bite, and it’s about to become your new obsession.
This snack is comprised of a golden sheet of brittle, not too thin, not too thick, and speckled with the toasty goodness of cashews.
Now, here’s the game-changer – brown sugar.
The brown sugar adds this rich, molasses-y sweetness that pairs perfectly with the buttery crunch of cashews.
Looking for a snack to impress your guests? This Brown Sugar Cashew Brittle is the answer.
It’s the kind of treat that disappears way too quickly. Let’s be honest, it’s hard to stop at just one piece.
Coconut Macaroons
Coconut macaroons – those chewy, coconutty clouds of deliciousness that somehow manage to be both fancy and homey at the same time.
What’s amazing about coconut macaroons is their simplicity. We’re not talking about a laundry list of ingredients here.
Coconut, sweetened condensed milk, a touch of vanilla – and you’ve got the makings of a tropical treat.
Dip them in chocolate, drizzle some caramel on top, or just keep them in their pure coconut glory.
What to Serve with Tea: Strawberry Crumble Bars
These little squares are like a hug from a strawberry field, all wrapped up in a crumbly, delicious package.
On top of that strawberry goodness, we’ve got a crumble that’s like the cherry on top. It’s a golden, crunchy layer that adds the perfect textural contrast to the soft, jammy fruit.
Enjoy them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
Pink Lemonade Mini Cheesecakes
Pink lemonade mini cheesecakes combine the zing of pink lemonade with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake.
These mini cheesecakes don’t just taste like a pink lemonade dream; they look like one too. The vibrant hue is like a visual feast that promises a flavor explosion.
They’re incredibly easy to whip up. No need for complicated baking techniques or hours of chilling.
So, whether you’re a fan of tangy delights or just looking for a dessert that’s as delightful as it is cute, give these Pink Lemonade Mini Cheesecakes a whirl.
Dainty Lavender Madeleines
Let’s step into the world of elegant simplicity with lavender madeleines. These little treats are like a fragrant whisper of sophistication in every bite.
Appreciate the moment when you pop one of these madeleines in your mouth. The delicate crunch on the outside gives way to a soft, spongy interior.
And then, there’s the lavender – not too overpowering, just a gentle floral note that lingers on your palate.
Types of Tea for Teatime
We’ve got herbal tea – the maverick of the tea world. Imagine fragrant blends of chamomile, peppermint, or hibiscus.
It’s like a botanical garden in a cup, and it adds a touch of zen to your affair.
Now, let’s talk about the classic selection of teas. We’re talking about the black, green, and oolong varieties, each with its unique flavor profile.
Feeling a bit fancy? Enter iced tea – the cool cousin of the hot brews.
Picture glasses clinking with ice cubes, condensation forming on the sides, and the refreshing sip that makes a hot day instantly better.
It’s the ultimate chill vibe for your party.
And for those who like a bit of spirited fun, let’s introduce tea cocktails into the mix. Think Earl Grey with a splash of gin or a chamomile-infused concoction.
Final Thoughts: What to Serve with Tea
These tea party food ideas are sure to elevate your gathering with a touch of charm and flavor.
If you’re embracing a specific tea party theme, these easy recipes are your ticket to a delicious and stress-free menu.
From the simplicity of bagels to the sophistication of Lavender Madeleines, there’s something to suit every taste and mood.
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