The tradition of afternoon tea is steeped in history and elegance, offering not just a break from the day but a delightful social event. While classic treats like scones, finger sandwiches, and pastries might come to mind first, there are so many delightful recipes you can explore to enhance your afternoon tea experience. Here are five delicious recipes that will add a new twist to your tea time:
Mini Quiches with Spinach and Feta
A perfect savory bite, these mini quiches are not only delicious but also wonderfully versatile for any tea time setting.
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1⁄2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 eggs
- 1⁄2 cup milk
- 1⁄4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Pie crust dough (pre-made or homemade)
🌱 Note: These mini quiches can be made the day before and reheated before serving. Just allow them to cool to room temperature before storing in the fridge.
Sticky Toffee Scones
These scones combine the rich flavors of dates and toffee for an indulgent treat that pairs wonderfully with a robust black tea.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1⁄4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 cup cold butter, cut into cubes
- 1 cup chopped dates
- 1⁄2 cup heavy cream
- 1 large egg
🌞 Note: These scones are rich and sweet, so serve them in small portions to balance with other lighter options on the tea table.
Earl Grey Lemon Madeleines
These delightful madeleines incorporate the floral notes of Earl Grey tea with a zesty lemon twist, making them an elegant addition to your tea spread.
- 3 eggs
- 2⁄3 cup sugar
- 1 cup flour
- 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 cup melted butter
- 1 tablespoon Earl Grey tea (finely ground)
- Zest of one lemon
☕ Note: Consider pairing these with Earl Grey or other black teas to bring out the flavors. You can adjust the amount of tea based on the desired strength of flavor.
Cucumber and Mint Tea Sandwiches
This refreshing twist on traditional cucumber sandwiches incorporates fresh mint for a burst of flavor that complements a light, floral tea.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cucumber | 1, thinly sliced |
| Fresh Mint | 10 leaves |
| Cream Cheese | 4 oz |
| White Bread | 8 slices |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
💚 Note: To keep sandwiches fresh, cover them with a damp cloth until serving. Ensure the crusts are removed for an authentic tea sandwich look.
Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites
A decadent treat for those with a sweet tooth, these red velvet cheesecake bites are a sophisticated yet playful option for tea time.
- 1 1⁄2 cups finely crushed red velvet cake
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1⁄4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1⁄2 cup white chocolate chips, melted
These recipes provide a balanced array of sweet and savory options, ensuring your afternoon tea is both varied and memorable. Each brings a unique flavor profile to the table, allowing you to explore new tastes while enjoying the comforting ritual of tea time. Whether you're hosting or looking for a personal indulgence, these recipes will elevate your afternoon tea to a delightful culinary experience.
What type of tea pairs best with these recipes?
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Earl Grey’s distinctive bergamot flavor pairs beautifully with the Lemon Madeleines and Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites. For a lighter note, try Darjeeling or a floral green tea for the cucumber sandwiches. Black teas with their robust flavors are excellent with the mini quiches and scones.
Can these recipes be made in advance?
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Absolutely! Mini quiches and cucumber sandwiches can be refrigerated or even frozen in advance. The scones and madeleines are best fresh but can be stored overnight and gently reheated or served at room temperature. Cheesecake bites can be prepared and refrigerated a day or two ahead.
How can I ensure my madeleines get the signature hump?
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Chill the batter before baking, use a hot oven (around 400°F/205°C), and make sure to fill your molds only about three-quarters full. The initial blast of heat helps create the hump as the batter rises.
