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Hello Tea Lovers,

So do you get stuck for food ideas when hosting a tea party?  Well read on for some hints and tips.

Hosting a tea party with friends is a delightful way to enjoy good company, relax, and indulge in charming and delicious treats. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual afternoon, the right tea party food ideas can elevate the experience. When paired with your favourite tea cups and perhaps your own collection of fortune telling teacups, these simple recipes and ideas will help create an unforgettable gathering.

In this blog, I will share creative tea party food ideas, including easy-to-make recipes, that perfectly complement your favourite teas and add a touch of elegance to your event. Plus, some helpful tips on how to set up a beautiful tea party that’s both fun and memorable.

Setting the Scene for Your Tea Party

Before diving into the food ideas, it’s important to create a charming setting. Decorate your space with vintage teapots, fresh flowers, and your collection of beautiful tea cups, including your fortune telling teacups. Use lace tablecloths, candles, and soft lighting to foster a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

Remember, presentation is key. Use tiered cake stands, small plates, and napkins that match your theme. This sets the tone for a relaxed yet sophisticated gathering where your friends can enjoy tea, conversation, and delicious treats.

Delicious Tea Party Food Ideas

When planning your tea party menu, focus on light, delicate, and flavourful options. Here are some classic and creative ideas to serve alongside your favourite teas:

• Mini Sandwiches and Wraps: Small, crustless sandwiches filled with cucumber, smoked salmon, cream cheese, or egg salad are perfect for tea parties. You can also prepare wraps with turkey and cranberry or hummus and roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Scones with Clotted Cream and Jam: A quintessential tea party treat that pairs beautifully with black or green tea. You can make traditional scones or try variations like cheese or fruit scones.
• Sweet Pastries and Cookies: Shortbread, lemon bars, macarons, or mini éclairs add sweetness and elegance to your spread.
• Fruit Platters and Berries: Fresh strawberries, grapes, melon slices, and other seasonal fruits are refreshing and add colour to your table.
• Tea-Infused Cakes and Muffins: Incorporate your favourite tea into baked goods for a unique flavour twist.

Simple Recipes to Impress Your Guests

Here are two easy to make recipes that will wow your friends and pair perfectly with your tea selection. These recipes are quick to prepare and require minimal ingredients, making them ideal for a relaxed tea party.

1. Classic Lemon Scones

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, diced
• 2/3 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of one lemon
• Optional: 1/2 cup dried cranberries or fresh berries

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the diced cold butter and rub it into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in lemon zest and berries if using.
5. In a separate bowl, mix milk and vanilla. Pour into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined.
6. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly until smooth. Pat into a 1-inch thick round.
7. Cut into wedges or rounds and place on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm with clotted cream and jam.

2. Elegant Cucumber and Cream Cheese Sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 8 slices of white or wholemeal bread
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix cream cheese with dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each slice of bread.
3. Layer cucumber slices on four of the bread slices.
4. Top with the remaining slices to form sandwiches.
5. Press gently, then cut off crusts and slice into small, bite-sized fingers or triangles.
6. Arrange neatly on a platter.

Tips for a Memorable Tea Party

• Choose a variety of teas such as Earl Grey, green tea, herbal infusions, or fruity blends that complement your menu.
• Serve in your collection of beautiful tea cups and include your special fortune telling teacups to add an extra layer of fun and mystique.
• Encourage conversation and connection by including conversation starters or fun tea-themed games.
• Personalise your event with handmade place cards, floral arrangements, or themed decorations matching your colour scheme.

Final Thoughts

Hosting a tea party with friends is a wonderful way to relax, connect, and enjoy delightful food and drink. With these simple tea party food ideas and recipes, you can create an elegant and cosy atmosphere that your friends will love. Incorporate your collection of beautiful tea cups and your fortune telling teacups for an extra special touch of magic and mystique.

Remember, the joy of a tea party lies not only in the food but in the shared moments and connections. So, set your table, brew your favourite teas, and let the conversation and laughter flow. Here’s to many memorable tea parties filled with love, friendship, and delicious treats.

Where there is tea, there is love. ❤️