Hosting a tea party can be a charming way to bring friends and family together for an afternoon of delightful conversation and delicious treats. With a variety of recipes at your fingertips, you can create a spread that will leave your guests impressed and satisfied. Whether you’re looking for savory sandwiches or sweet pastries, these recipes offer a perfect balance for a memorable tea party.
Planning your menu can be simple and enjoyable when you have a collection of tried-and-true recipes to choose from. From classic cucumber sandwiches to innovative flavors and presentations, there’s something for every taste. Your tea party will be a success with these carefully selected recipes, ensuring that every guest leaves with a smile.
1) Classic Cucumber Sandwiches
Cucumber sandwiches are a timeless choice for any tea party. They are simple to make and always a hit with guests.
Start by gathering fresh cucumbers, cream cheese, bread, and any seasonings you prefer.
Slice the cucumber very thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline.
Spread a generous layer of softened cream cheese on each slice of bread.
Place the cucumber slices evenly on half of the bread slices. Overlap them slightly to cover the bread completely.
Sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper over the cucumbers for added flavor.
Top with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
If you want, you can trim the crusts for a more traditional look.
Cut the sandwiches into fingers, triangles, or squares.
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean with a damp towel between cuts for neat edges.
Serve your classic cucumber sandwiches on a platter, and enjoy your tea party.
2) Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies
Earl Grey Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat for any tea party. These cookies combine the rich, buttery taste of classic shortbread with the subtle, floral flavor of Earl Grey tea.
To begin, you’ll want to infuse the butter with Earl Grey tea leaves. This step ensures the tea flavor is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Next, combine the infused butter with powdered sugar and beat it until creamy. This creates a smooth base for your cookies.
Add flour and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Mixing until a soft dough forms is essential. The dough might seem a bit dry, but this is normal for shortbread.
Wrap the dough in plastic and chill it in the fridge for about an hour. Chilling helps the dough hold its shape during baking.
Once chilled, roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to shape the dough into your desired forms.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy these delicate Earl Grey shortbread cookies with a cup of tea!
3) Lemon Lavender Scones
Lemon lavender scones are a delightful addition to any tea party. The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant lavender creates a unique flavor experience.
To make these scones, start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
Add lemon zest and dried lavender to the dry ingredients. Mix well. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You can use a pastry blender or two knives for this step.
In a separate bowl, combine milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture. Stir until just combined.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently. Pat the dough into two circles. Place one circle on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut into wedges but don’t separate them.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the scones are light golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Serve your lemon lavender scones warm with clotted cream or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice. These scones are sure to impress your guests and add a touch of elegance to your tea party.
4) Mad Hatter’s Mushroom Tartlets
Mad Hatter’s Mushroom Tartlets are a delightful addition to your tea party. These savory bites are easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
Start with a simple buttery pastry shell. You can use pre-made dough to save time. Cut the dough into small circles and press into mini tartlet pans.
For the filling, sauté mushrooms with garlic and onions until tender. Add a splash of cream and a sprinkle of thyme for flavor. Spoon the mushroom mixture into the pastry shells.
Bake the tartlets in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until the edges are golden and crispy.
Serve these tartlets warm. They pair well with both hot tea and cold beverages.
Enjoy making these easy and tasty Mad Hatter’s Mushroom Tartlets!
5) Queen’s Coronation Chicken Salad
Queen’s Coronation Chicken Salad is a classic British dish that was created for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953. This recipe combines cooked chicken with a creamy, slightly spicy dressing.
To make the chicken, start by simmering chicken pieces with salt, peppercorns, a bay leaf, onion, and a cinnamon stick for about 45 minutes to an hour. Let the chicken cool in the broth.
In a skillet, heat some oil and sauté shallots for a couple of minutes. Add curry powder and mustard to bloom their flavors. Then, mix in chutney, apricot jam, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Allow everything to simmer for a few more minutes.
Once your curry mixture is ready, remove it from the heat. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream. Add the cooled curry mixture to this creamy base and stir well.
Cut the cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mix the chicken with the creamy curry dressing. Make sure every piece is well-coated.
Serve your Coronation Chicken Salad on a bed of lettuce or with some crusty bread. It’s a flavorful dish that pairs well with many tea time treats.
6) Regal Raspberry Thumbprints
Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for a tea party. They have a delicate, buttery texture and a sweet raspberry filling.
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in vanilla extract and an egg yolk, then mix until smooth.
In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, blending well until a dough forms.
Roll the dough into small balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Use your thumb to gently press an indentation into the center of each ball.
Fill the indentations with raspberry jam. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack.
These cookies are both elegant and delicious, making them a perfect choice for your tea party menu.
7) Victoria Sponge Cake
A Victoria Sponge Cake is perfect for a tea party. It’s light, airy, and filled with delicious cream and jam. You’ll need basic ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract.
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper.
Using a mixer, cream the butter and sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. This takes about five minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully mixed in before adding the next.
Next, fold in the flour carefully. Be gentle to keep the batter airy. Divide the batter evenly between the two pans.
Bake the cakes for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Once cooled, spread a layer of jam on one cake. Top it with a thick layer of whipped cream. Place the second cake on top.
Dust the top with a little powdered sugar. Your Victoria Sponge Cake is now ready to serve. It’s a timeless classic that will delight your guests.
8) Royal Tea Punch
Royal Tea Punch is a refreshing and elegant drink perfect for any tea party.
Start by brewing a strong black tea. Use about 8 cups of water and 8 tea bags. Steep the tea for 5 minutes, then remove the tea bags.
In a large pitcher, stir in 1 cup of sugar until it dissolves completely.
Add 2 cups of pineapple juice and 2 cups of orange juice to the sweetened tea.
Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for a few hours.
Just before serving, pour the chilled tea mixture into a punch bowl.
Add 1 liter of ginger ale to give it some fizz.
Garnish with slices of fresh oranges and lemons.
Your guests will love the bright and fruity flavors.
9) Peppermint Patty Macarons
Peppermint Patty Macarons are a delightful treat for any tea party. They combine the refreshing taste of peppermint with the elegance of a classic macaron.
To start, make a stiff peak meringue by mixing egg whites with granulated sugar and cream of tartar. Fold in almond flour and powdered sugar. You need about 65-75 gentle folds to get the right consistency.
Next, add peppermint extract to the batter. This gives the macarons their signature minty flavor. Pipe the batter onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making small, even circles.
Once piped, let the macarons sit for 20-30 minutes to form a skin. Bake at 300°F for about 15-18 minutes until the shells are firm.
For the filling, create a white chocolate ganache. Heat heavy cream and pour it over chopped white chocolate. Stir until smooth, then let it cool before folding in chopped peppermint bits.
Pair up the cooled macaron shells and pipe a dollop of ganache onto one shell. Sandwich it with another shell, pressing gently to spread the filling.
Peppermint Patty Macarons are perfect for adding a touch of sophistication and a burst of flavor to your tea party.
10) Darjeeling Tea Cakes
Darjeeling Tea Cakes are a lovely addition to your tea party spread. These cakes incorporate ground Darjeeling tea leaves, giving them a unique and aromatic flavor. They pair exceptionally well with a hot cup of tea, enhancing the overall tea experience.
To make Darjeeling Tea Cakes, you’ll need ingredients like all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, and finely ground Darjeeling tea leaves. Mixing these ingredients creates a batter that bakes into light, fluffy cakes with a subtle tea flavor.
You can add a touch of lemon or orange zest to enhance the citrus notes and balance the tea’s earthy flavor. These small additions make the cakes even more delightful to eat.
Bake the cakes until they are golden brown. Serve them warm or at room temperature. They make a charming and tasty treat that will impress your guests with their delicate flavor and elegant presentation.
For an extra touch, consider drizzling a light glaze made with brewed Darjeeling tea and sugar. This adds a sweet, glossy finish and intensifies the tea’s flavor in the cakes.
11) Rose Petal Jam Tarts
Rose Petal Jam Tarts are a delightful addition to your tea party spread. The floral flavor adds a unique and sophisticated touch to your dessert table.
Start by making a simple tart dough. Mix together butter, powdered sugar, cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest. Make sure the dough is smooth and well-combined.
Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut it into small circles and press these into greased tartlet pans. It’s important to cover the bottom and sides evenly to create a good shell.
For the filling, use rose petal jam. Spoon a small amount into each tart shell, spreading it out evenly. The jam should fill the tart but not overflow.
Bake the tarts in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-18 minutes. The edges should be golden brown when they are done. Allow the tarts to cool in the pan before removing them.
For an added touch, you can garnish with sliced almonds or a light dusting of powdered sugar. These tarts are perfect with tea and offer a delicate floral taste that will impress your guests.
12) Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups
Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups make a great appetizer for any tea party. They are simple to prepare and look elegant on the table.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Arrange the phyllo cups on a baking sheet.
Remove the rind from the brie and cut it into small, 1-inch cubes. Place a cube of brie into each phyllo cup.
Bake the cups for about 8 minutes or until the brie melts.
In the meantime, make a quick cranberry sauce. Combine cranberries, sugar, water, and a sprig of rosemary in a pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the cranberries pop. Remove from heat and discard the rosemary.
Once the brie has melted, remove the cups from the oven. Add about a teaspoon of cranberry sauce to each cup.
Garnish the cups with small pieces of chopped pecans or a tiny rosemary sprig. Your Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups are now ready to serve. Enjoy!
13) Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini
Fig and goat cheese crostini is a delicious, easy-to-make appetizer that will impress your guests. Start by slicing a thin baguette into ½-inch slices. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil.
Bake the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 6-8 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Let them cool for a bit before adding the toppings.
Spread a generous amount of softened goat cheese on each crostini. If the goat cheese is too hard, microwave it for a few seconds to make it spreadable.
Add a spoonful of fig jam on top of the goat cheese. You can also garnish with fresh fig slices if you like. Drizzle with a bit of honey for added sweetness.
Finish by sprinkling some fresh cracked pepper and thyme leaves for a touch of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this tasty treat.
14) Lavender Honey Butter
Lavender honey butter is a delightful addition to your tea party spread. This butter combines the floral notes of lavender with the sweetness of honey, creating a unique and tasty treat. It’s perfect for spreading on scones, bread, or even muffins.
To make lavender honey butter, start by whipping heavy cream in a mixer for 5-10 minutes until the butter separates from the liquid. Drain the liquid. Stir in honey and a pinch of salt to the butter. Crush a small amount of dried lavender with your hands and gently mix it into the butter.
Refrigerate the lavender honey butter for about 10 minutes. This step is optional but helps firm up the butter. Serve it cold with your favorite tea party snacks.
For storage, you can shape the butter into logs and wrap it in waxed paper or plastic wrap. You can also pipe small star-shaped pieces and freeze them. These pieces can be stored in a ziplock bag for easy use later.
Lavender honey butter can elevate even simple bread to a gourmet treat. Your guests will appreciate the unique flavor that this butter brings to your tea party. Enjoy experimenting with different ways to serve it.
15) White Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
White Chocolate Dipped Strawberries are a delightful treat for any tea party. Start by rinsing your strawberries well. Make sure to dry them completely with paper towels. Any moisture can prevent the chocolate from sticking properly.
Next, prepare your white chocolate. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each one. Continue until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
Hold each strawberry by the stem. Dip it into the melted white chocolate, covering about three-quarters of the berry. Let the excess chocolate drip off before placing the strawberry on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Let the strawberries sit at room temperature until the chocolate hardens. If you’re in a hurry, you can place them in the fridge for a quicker set. These strawberries are not only tasty but also elegant, making them perfect for a tea party.
16) Herbed Parmesan Palmiers
Herbed Parmesan Palmiers are a flavorful and elegant addition to any tea party. You start with puff pastry, which you can find in the frozen section of most grocery stores. Thaw the pastry according to the package instructions.
Once thawed, lay the puff pastry flat on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to gently roll out the dough until it’s about 9 x 12 inches. This will ensure your palmiers are uniform in size.
In a small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese with finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and basil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the rolled-out puff pastry.
Next, fold the edges of the dough towards the center, forming a booklet-like shape. Repeat this step so both edges meet in the middle. Then, fold the entire pastry in half, creating an elephant ear shape.
Using a sharp knife, cut the folded dough into slices about 1/4 inch thick. Place these slices cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Space them out to allow for puffing during baking.
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Bake the palmiers for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Let them cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy your delicious Herbed Parmesan Palmiers with tea!
17) Mini Quiche Lorraines
Mini Quiche Lorraines are a delightful addition to any tea party. These bite-sized pastries are packed with flavor and are easy to eat.
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Use ready-made puff pastry or make your own. Cut out circles and press them into a mini muffin tin.
Mix your filling by whisking together 4 eggs, 1 1/2 cups half and half, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg. Add cheese, cooked bacon, and finely chopped onions.
Pour the filling into the pastry shells. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set. Let them cool slightly before serving. These mini quiches are sure to be a hit at your tea party!
18) Baked Brie with Apricot Preserves
Baked Brie with Apricot Preserves is a delightful addition to any tea party. This dish combines the creamy texture of brie with the sweet, tangy flavor of apricots.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a small cast iron skillet.
Unwrap the brie cheese and place it on the prepared pan. Spread 2-3 tablespoons of apricot preserves over the top of the brie.
If you prefer a fancier presentation, wrap the brie in puff pastry. Beat one egg and brush it over the pastry to give it a golden color when baked.
Bake the brie for 15-20 minutes if unwrapped, or about 35 minutes if wrapped in pastry. The brie should be melted and gooey in the center.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice.
Serve with slices of crusty bread or crackers. The combination of warm, melted brie and sweet apricot preserves is sure to impress your guests.
19) Chive and Cream Cheese Pinwheels
Chive and cream cheese pinwheels are a perfect addition to your tea party menu. They are easy to make and look elegant on the table.
Start by rolling out a sheet of puff pastry on a floured surface. Aim to get it about 1/16 to 1/8 inch thick. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese evenly across the pastry, leaving about an inch on one side bare.
Sprinkle chopped chives over the cream cheese. You can add a pinch of salt for extra flavor. Begin rolling the pastry tightly from the side filled with cream cheese and chives.
Once rolled, wrap the pastry in plastic wrap. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This helps the pastry firm up and makes it easier to slice.
After chilling, cut the roll into slices about half an inch thick. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown, about 12-15 minutes.
Serve these pinwheels warm or at room temperature. They offer a delightful mix of creamy and savory flavors that will impress your guests.
20) Chocolate-Dipped Madeleines
Chocolate-dipped madeleines are perfect for a tea party. They are soft, buttery, and beautifully shaped.
Start by beating eggs, vanilla, and salt until frothy. Fold in flour and melted butter until smooth.
Chill the batter in the refrigerator for 2 hours. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and dust a madeleine pan with flour.
Fill each mold ¾ full with batter. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Cool madeleines on a wire rack.
Melt dark chocolate in a bowl. Dip half of each madeleine into the chocolate. Let the chocolate set before serving.
21) Rosemary Garlic Beef Skewers
Rosemary garlic beef skewers are a perfect addition to your tea party. They are easy to make and packed with flavor. Start by cutting your beef into bite-sized pieces. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper.
In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary until smooth. Add a few tablespoons of this mixture to the beef. Let the beef marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to an hour.
Soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning. Thread the beef onto the skewers. You can also add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for variety.
Heat your grill to medium. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side. Make sure the beef is cooked to your liking.
Serve the skewers hot. They are delicious alone or with a dipping sauce. These skewers are sure to be a hit at your tea party.
22) Berry Chantilly Cups
Berry Chantilly Cups are a delightful treat for your tea party. These cups combine light vanilla cake, fresh berries, and smooth Chantilly cream. They are served in individual portions, making them easy for guests to enjoy.
Start by baking simple vanilla cupcakes. Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare your muffin tin with liners. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Cream butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla, and combine with the flour mixture. Bake until done.
To make the berry filling, cook mixed berries with sugar in a saucepan until the berries break down. Thicken the mixture with cornstarch and water. Stir in lemon juice for a fresh taste.
Layer the vanilla cupcakes with the berry filling in clear cups. Top them with Chantilly cream. The cream is made by whipping heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until fluffy.
Garnish with fresh berries and mint leaves. Serve chilled for the best flavor. These Berry Chantilly Cups look beautiful and taste even better, making them a perfect addition to your tea party.
23) Deviled Eggs with Smoked Salmon
Deviled eggs with smoked salmon add a gourmet twist to a classic appetizer. To make these, you need hard-boiled eggs, smoked salmon, and a few other ingredients like goat cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, and chives.
Start by boiling your eggs. Place them in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and let simmer for 14 minutes. Remove from heat, place in an ice water bath, and let cool.
Peel the eggs and slice them in half. Remove the yolks and place them in a bowl. Add goat cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, and chopped chives to the yolks. Add small pieces of smoked salmon. Mix everything well.
Fill the egg halves with the smoked salmon mixture. You can use a piping bag for a neat finish or simply spoon the mixture in.
For an extra touch, top each filled egg with a tiny piece of smoked salmon or a sprinkle of chives. These deviled eggs not only look fancy but also taste delicious. They’re perfect for any tea party or special gathering.
24) Pomegranate Prosecco Punch
For a refreshing and festive drink, Pomegranate Prosecco Punch is a perfect choice.
Start by making a simple syrup. Combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add fresh ginger slices and a few rosemary sprigs. Bring the mixture to a boil, then let it simmer for a few minutes. Remove from heat and cool.
In a pitcher, combine pomegranate juice, orange juice, and Cointreau. Mix until well blended. Chill this mixture in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
When ready to serve, fill a glass halfway with ice and pour in the juice mixture. Top it off with Prosecco. Garnish with orange slices and pomegranate arils for a festive touch.
The pomegranate and orange juice add a wonderful flavor while the Prosecco provides a bubbly finish. This punch is not just tasty but also visually appealing, making it a great addition to your tea party.
Be mindful if using carbonated drinks. Add sugar slowly to prevent it from bubbling over. This punch combines tart, sweet, and bubbly flavors to please your guests. Enjoy the delightful taste of this Pomegranate Prosecco Punch!
25) Cardamom Spiced Nuts
Cardamom spiced nuts add a burst of flavor to your tea party snacks. They mix crunchy nuts with the warm, aromatic taste of cardamom.
Start by melting butter in a skillet. Add your choice of nuts and some sugar. Cook the mixture over medium heat until the nuts are browned. This should take about 8-12 minutes.
As the nuts cook, mix a bit more sugar with ground cardamom in a bowl. Once the nuts are done, toss them with the sugar and cardamom mixture.
Spread the coated nuts on a baking sheet and bake them until they are dry and crisp. Cool them down before serving.
These spiced nuts can be stored in an airtight container for up to three weeks. They make a tasty, crunchy addition to your tea party treats.
26) Ginger Lemon Truffles
Ginger Lemon Truffles are a delightful addition to your tea party. They combine the tangy taste of lemon with the spicy kick of ginger.
To make these truffles, you’ll need crushed ginger snaps, lemon zest, and Limoncello. Start by mixing the crushed ginger snaps and lemon zest in a bowl.
Melt white chocolate and butter together until smooth. Use a microwave or a double boiler for this step. Stir in heavy cream and Limoncello to the melted mixture.
Once combined, mix in the ginger snap crumbs and lemon zest. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for an hour. This helps the mixture firm up for easier handling.
After chilling, take small spoonfuls and roll them into balls. Coat the truffles with extra ginger snap crumbs or chopped pecans for an added crunch.
Place the truffles on a lined baking sheet and chill them again until they are completely set.
27) Creamy Chive Dip with Veggies
This Creamy Chive Dip is perfect for your tea party. It’s easy to make and pairs well with fresh veggies.
Start by mixing 16 oz of sour cream with 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives. Add the green parts of 2 chopped green onions.
Next, stir in 2 teaspoons of onion powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
If you like it saltier, add more to taste. Let the dip chill in the fridge for at least an hour.
Serve with a colorful array of vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell pepper sticks. This dip is creamy, tangy, and full of flavor.
Your guests will love this fresh and tasty addition to your tea party spread.
28) Balsamic Glazed Pearl Onions
Balsamic glazed pearl onions add a sweet and tangy flavor to your tea party menu.
Start by peeling your pearl onions. You can use fresh or frozen onions. Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add butter and oil, letting them melt together. Stir in the onions and cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
Pour in balsamic vinegar and a bit of sugar. This will create that signature glaze. Cover the skillet and let the onions simmer. Check frequently to ensure they don’t dry out, adding a bit of water or vegetable broth if needed.
After about 20-30 minutes, the liquid will become thick and glossy. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat. Serve these onions warm as a side dish or appetizer at your tea party.
29) Minted Pea Crostini
For a fresh and bright appetizer, try making Minted Pea Crostini. Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add your peas and cook them until they are tender, about 2-3 minutes. Drain the peas and quickly transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
Next, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the drained peas with minced garlic until they are heated through, around 3-4 minutes. Place the peas into a food processor. Add some fresh mint leaves, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is combined but still chunky.
Slice a baguette into thin pieces and toast them until golden brown. Spread a generous amount of the minted pea mixture onto each slice. You can add a small chunk of feta or ricotta cheese on top for extra flavor.
Season the crostini with a bit more salt and pepper. Garnish with extra mint leaves if you like. Serve immediately for the best taste. Your guests will love this simple, elegant dish that is both flavorful and easy to prepare.
30) Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Prosciutto wrapped asparagus is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for a tea party.
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the prosciutto slices in half lengthwise.
Next, take fresh asparagus spears and trim the woody ends.
Wrap a strip of prosciutto around each asparagus spear, starting from the bottom and spiralling up to just below the tip.
Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over them.
Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crisp and the asparagus is tender.
Serve warm.
Importance of Tea Parties
Tea parties have a rich historical background and hold various cultural significances that have evolved through time. They are a unique tradition that brings people together for socializing and enjoying delightful treats.
History of Tea Parties
Tea parties date back to the 17th century when tea was first introduced in England. The custom began as an elite activity among the upper class. Over time, it spread across different social classes, evolving into the well-loved tradition it is today.
In Victorian times, tea parties became an essential social event, with people gathering to discuss news, entertain guests, and showcase their hospitality. Tea parties were often held in the afternoon, featuring a variety of finger foods, pastries, and, of course, tea.
During this period, the concept of “afternoon tea” was popularized by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford. She started the tradition of having tea and snacks in the afternoon to bridge the gap between meals, which became widely adopted.
Cultural Significance
Tea parties hold a special place in many cultures, symbolizing hospitality and friendship. In England, having tea is a cherished tradition that brings people together to share moments of joy and relaxation. Tea parties celebrate the art of conversation and the simple pleasure of enjoying good company.
In societies around the world, tea gatherings can also hold spiritual or ceremonial significance, such as the Japanese tea ceremony. These rituals emphasize tranquility, respect, and mindfulness, highlighting the deeper meanings associated with tea.
Today, tea parties remain a popular way to mark celebrations, host gatherings, or simply enjoy a pleasant afternoon with friends and family. The tradition continues to adapt, blending traditional elements with contemporary tastes and styles.
Ingredients and Preparation
For a successful tea party, you will need a variety of fresh ingredients and some tips on how to prepare them efficiently. Paying attention to the details ensures everything is both delightful and delicious.
Key Ingredients for Tea Party Recipes
- Bread: Choose fresh, uncut white bread if you plan to make finger sandwiches. Cutting it lengthwise can give you more area to work with.
- Fillings: Popular choices include cucumber, avocado, and dill for a refreshing taste. Consider cream cheese, smoked salmon, or chicken salad as well.
- Jams and Spreads: Include blackberry jam, butter, and other tasty spreads. These add sweetness and variety.
- Pastries and Desserts: Scones, phyllo shells, and tartlets are perfect. Mini chocolate chips and heavy cream are great for baking.
Example Ingredient List:
| Ingredient | Use |
|---|---|
| Fresh white bread | Finger sandwiches |
| Cucumber & Avocado | Sandwich fillings |
| Blackberry jam | Spreads for scones |
| Phyllo shells | Tartlet bases |
| Heavy cream | Scone preparation |
Preparation Tips
- Sandwiches: Cut bread lengthwise for more area. Use fresh, thinly sliced fillings like cucumber and avocado. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese to hold everything together.
- Scones: Use all-purpose flour and baking powder for a good rise. Mix in mini chocolate chips or ground cinnamon for extra flavor. Sprinkle with coarse sugar and drizzle with confectioners’ sugar after baking.
- Desserts: Use store-bought phyllo shells filled with lemon curd or other quick fillings. Garnish with fresh fruit like blueberries and mint leaves to add color and flavor.
- Tea: Offer a variety of teas to cater to different preferences. Steep each type correctly to ensure the best taste.
By focusing on these key ingredients and tips, you can create a delightful tea party experience for your guests.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
To make your tea party truly memorable, focus on presenting the food beautifully and choosing the right serveware.
Table Setting Ideas
Creating a welcoming and stylish table setting can make a big difference. Start with a clean, crisp white tablecloth. This gives a classic look and highlights your food. Add a centerpiece such as fresh flowers in a simple vase.
Use tiered cake stands for displaying sandwiches, scones, and sweets. They save space and look elegant. Small decorative plates and saucers are perfect for individual servings. Vintage teacups and saucers add charm and make each guest feel special. Cloth napkins folded neatly can also add a touch of sophistication.
Serveware Recommendations
Choosing the right serveware is key. Glass or ceramic teapots help keep the tea warm and look elegant on the table. Small serving dishes for jams, clotted cream, and butter keep everything neat and accessible.
Use mini spoons and butter knives for ease of use. Matching trays and platters in coordinating colors can enhance the visual appeal. For ease of serving, consider using tongs or small serving forks for picking up sandwiches and treats.
Having a cream and sugar set on the table is also essential for guests who like to customize their tea.
