To create the ultimate afternoon tea experience, your menu should include a balance of savory and sweet items, complemented by a variety of teas. Below are the essential components of a well-rounded afternoon tea catering menu.
1. Finger Sandwiches: The Savory Staples
Finger sandwiches are a quintessential part of any afternoon tea menu. These small, bite-sized sandwiches should be light and delicate, with fillings that are flavorful yet not too heavy. Some classic options include:
- Cucumber and Cream Cheese: This light and refreshing sandwich is a staple in afternoon tea menus. The cucumber adds a crisp texture, while the cream cheese offers smoothness and richness.
- Smoked Salmon and Dill: A sophisticated choice, smoked salmon pairs perfectly with the subtle flavors of dill and lemon. It’s a classic that’s sure to please your guests.
- Egg and Cress: This vegetarian option offers a creamy texture from the egg and a peppery kick from the fresh cress. It’s a crowd-pleaser for those who prefer something simple and savory.
- Roast Chicken and Cranberry: For a heartier option, roasted chicken with a tangy cranberry sauce adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the sandwiches.
Tip: Ensure your sandwiches are neatly cut into small, manageable portions. Crusts should be removed for a refined appearance.
2. Scones: The Heart of Afternoon Tea
No afternoon tea is complete without scones. These delicious, buttery baked goods are best served fresh and warm with clotted cream and jam. Traditional scones can be made plain, or you can opt for fruit scones that add a burst of flavor.
- Plain Scones: These classic scones are soft and crumbly, making them a perfect base for the sweet accompaniments. They can be served with clotted cream and strawberry jam for a traditional touch.
- Fruit Scones: If you want to offer something a little sweeter, fruit scones, often made with raisins or currants, are a popular choice.
- Cheese Scones: For those who prefer savory over sweet, cheese scones provide a rich and flavorful alternative.
Accompaniments for Scones:
- Clotted Cream: This thick, rich cream is a must-have for scones.
- Strawberry Jam: Classic and sweet, strawberry jam pairs perfectly with scones.
- Lemon Curd: For a refreshing twist, lemon curd adds a tangy and sweet contrast to the creaminess of scones.
3. Pastries and Cakes: Indulging the Sweet Tooth
While scones are the centerpiece of afternoon tea, cakes and pastries elevate the experience to new heights. Miniature desserts and bite-sized pastries allow guests to indulge in a variety of sweet flavors. Here are a few options to consider:
- Mini Fruit Tarts: These colorful tarts, filled with fresh fruit and a creamy custard, add a burst of color and sweetness to your tea menu.
- Eclairs: These French pastries, filled with rich cream and topped with a glossy chocolate glaze, offer a sophisticated touch to your tea spread.
- Victoria Sponge Cake: This traditional British cake, made with layers of fluffy sponge, jam, and cream, is a favorite at any afternoon tea.
- Lemon Drizzle Cake: The refreshing, zesty flavor of lemon drizzle cake is perfect for cleansing the palate between tea sips.
Tip: Consider offering a variety of cakes that are visually appealing and easy to serve, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
4. Biscuits and Cookies: Light and Crunchy Additions
Biscuits and cookies provide a delightful crunch alongside the soft textures of sandwiches and scones. They are often served in small portions and can be a great way to add variety to your menu.
- Shortbread Biscuits: Buttery and crisp, shortbread biscuits are a classic choice for afternoon tea.
- Digestive Biscuits: These mild, slightly sweet biscuits pair perfectly with tea and are popular in the UK.
- Oatmeal and Raisin Cookies: Offering a slightly chewy texture, these cookies add a wholesome option to your menu.
5. Savory Bites: A Delicious Contrast
To balance out the sweetness of cakes and pastries, it’s a good idea to add a few savory items. These can include mini quiches, savory scones, or light canapés.
- Mini Quiches: A variety of quiches, such as cheese and spinach or mushroom and caramelized onion, offer guests a savory bite.
- Canapés: Small, savory appetizers like smoked salmon on rye or goat cheese with beetroot are ideal for adding flavor and elegance.
The Perfect Tea Selection for Afternoon Tea
An essential part of afternoon tea is, of course, the tea itself. Your guests will likely expect a variety of tea options, so make sure to include both traditional and herbal varieties. Here are some options to consider:
1. Traditional Teas
- English Breakfast Tea: A bold, full-bodied tea that’s a classic choice for afternoon tea.
- Earl Grey Tea: Known for its fragrant aroma and flavor, Earl Grey tea is a favorite among tea lovers.
- Darjeeling Tea: Often referred to as the “champagne of teas,” this tea offers a light, floral flavor that pairs well with delicate sweets.
2. Herbal and Specialty Teas
- Chamomile Tea: For a calming, caffeine-free option, chamomile tea is a perfect choice.
- Peppermint Tea: This refreshing tea adds a cool, minty flavor and is often enjoyed as a palate cleanser.
- Green Tea with Jasmine: A fragrant and floral option that adds a touch of elegance to your afternoon tea menu.
Conclusion
Creating the perfect afternoon tea catering menu is all about balance and variety. By including a mix of savory finger sandwiches, fresh scones with clotted cream and jam, sweet pastries and cakes, and a selection of fine teas, you’ll ensure that your guests have an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re hosting a formal tea party or a casual gathering, these essential items will help you craft a delightful spread that celebrates the timeless tradition of afternoon tea.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the traditional order of items served during afternoon tea?
Traditionally, the order starts with savory finger sandwiches, followed by scones with cream and jam, and finishes with sweet pastries and cakes.
Q2: Can I serve savory dishes for afternoon tea, or should it only be sweet?
Yes! Afternoon tea should include a balance of both savory and sweet items. Savory bites like finger sandwiches and mini quiches are an essential part of the spread.
Q3: How many types of tea should I offer at an afternoon tea event?
Aim to offer at least three to five types of tea, including classic options like Earl Grey and English Breakfast, as well as herbal varieties like chamomile or peppermint.
Q4: Can I make an afternoon tea menu vegan or gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can customize your afternoon tea menu to accommodate dietary restrictions by offering gluten-free sandwiches, vegan scones, and dairy-free desserts.
Q5: How can I make my afternoon tea spread more elegant?
To elevate your afternoon tea experience, use fine china, tiered serving trays, and decorative touches like fresh flowers. Presentation is key to making the event feel special.
