From mini sandwiches to buttery scones, we've got all the tea party food ideas you need for a delightful afternoon tea party.
1/35
English Scones
From the Recipe Creator:
When I came to America from England in 1967, I made sure to bring along my favorite recipe for English scones. Served warm with butter, they're perfect for breakfast. —Barry Grieve, Fort Campbell, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 scone: 229 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 32mg cholesterol, 147mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
2/35
Vol-au-Vent
From the Recipe Creator:
My friends and I have been getting together for 'ladies lunches' for years. These vol-au-vents are the perfect no-fuss fancy food; they look complicated, but are actually simple and fun to make. Whenever I think of good friends and good company, I think of these savory pastries. —Shauna Havey, Roy, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 filled pastry: 669 calories, 45g fat (16g saturated fat), 108mg cholesterol, 670mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 6g fiber), 19g protein.
3/35
Berry Tarts
From the Recipe Creator:
Bring spring flavors together in these delectable miniature tarts. Raspberries and blueberries both work well with the whipped cream and lemon curd mixture—or choose your favorite berries instead. These sweet treats are great for a ladies tea, brunch or spring holiday celebration. —Mary J. Walters, Westerville, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 tartlet: 241 calories, 14g fat (9g saturated fat), 42mg cholesterol, 160mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
4/35
Gluten-Free Lemon Cake
From the Recipe Creator:
This delightful layer cake gets a triple wallop of Earl Grey flavor: steeped milk and finely minced tea leaves go in the batter, then each of the delicate cake layers is brushed with a tea-infused simple syrup. A lovely vanilla frosting adorns it all. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cake: 497 calories, 17g fat (7g saturated fat), 93mg cholesterol, 206mg sodium, 81g carbohydrate (50g sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
5/35
Macarons
From the Recipe Creator:
Even when decorated simply—a sprinkle of sugar and a drizzle of icing—these stylish beauties will be the showstoppers on any Christmas cookie tray. They are part of our creative Christmas cookies collection every year. —Josh Rink, Photo Stylist Taste of Home
Nutrition Facts:
1 macaron: 101 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 26mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
6/35
Biscuits de Fromage
From the Recipe Creator:
I drew inspiration from a tartine I made over the summer that I loved, with a nice mix of sweet and savory: cheese, figs, pistachios, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkling of fresh thyme. I thought, 'Why not put those flavors into a cookie?' I added the brown butter to add a little more complexity—and also because it got me a win the year before! —Elizabeth Tittle, Garfield Heights, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich cookie: 111 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 61mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
7/35
Homemade Lemon Curd
From the Recipe Creator:
Lemon curd is a scrumptious spread for scones, biscuits or other baked goods. You can find it in larger grocery stores alongside the jams and jellies or with the baking supplies, but we like making this lemon curd recipe from scratch. —Mark Hagen, West Allis, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 110 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 52mg cholesterol, 45mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
8/35
Petits Fours
From the Recipe Creator:
Add a delicate touch to your dessert table with these bite-sized cakes. We decorated the tops with simple buttercream rosettes and gold sugar pearls, but feel free to try your hand at other designs. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 petit four: 171 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 70mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (30g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
9/35
Spinach Puffs
From the Recipe Creator:
These bite-sized spinach puffs are full of cheese and creamy goodness. —Marissa Allen, First and Full
Nutrition Facts:
1 puff: 136 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 147mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
10/35
Mini Cheesecake
From the Recipe Creator:
Presto! We turned cheesecake into irresistible bite-sized snacks with these cute little treats. Feel free to use your favorite flavor of jam. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 mini cheesecake: 198 calories, 13g fat (7g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 141mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
11/35
Strawberry Scones
From the Recipe Creator:
This strawberry scones recipe is rich with cream and packed with berry goodness. If you are like me, you won't be able to eat just one! —Agnes Ward, Stratford, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 scone: 233 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 387mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
12/35
Shrimp in Phyllo Cups
From the Recipe Creator:
I almost didn’t make these appetizers for last year’s Christmas party because I was running out of time, but I knew they’d be a tasty hit. Simple to make, the cups have few ingredients and look beautiful on the plate—very gourmet! This turned out to be one of the night’s favorites, and they just flew off the plate. —Terri Edmunds, Naperville, Illinois
13/35
Kumquat Marmalade
From the Recipe Creator:
I didn’t even know what a kumquat was until my husband and I discovered them in southern Florida. Now I love using them for marmalade. I always get carried away making it and am happy to share! —Faye Robinson, Pensacola, Florida
14/35
Battenberg Cake
From the Recipe Creator:
Behold, the beautiful Battenberg! This gorgeous, intricate, almond-flavored sponge cake was made famous as a signature challenge on the 'Great British Bake-Off.' If you're up for personal baking challenge, the results are stunning and, of course, delicious. —Nancy Mock, Southbridge, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 slice: 440 calories, 20g fat (8g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 256mg sodium, 59g carbohydrate (45g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
15/35
Crab Puffs
From the Recipe Creator:
I received this recipe years ago from my grandmother. She also told me to have fun being creative and experimenting in the kitchen. My friends request these little puffs at every gathering. —Jean Bevilacqua, Rhododendron, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 30 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 32mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
16/35
Plum Jelly
From the Recipe Creator:
I've had this wild plum jelly recipe for ages. Each year when the plums are ripe, I'll fill my pail and make this jelly. It's so good served with toast, pancakes or waffles! —Ludell Heuser, Mount Horeb, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 108 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 28g carbohydrate (27g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.
17/35
Rhubarb Bruschetta
From the Recipe Creator:
Fresh rhubarb jam is spooned over cheese-topped bruschetta for a delightful spring appetizer. Spread the goat cheese on toasted bread slices as soon as they are removed from the broiler. —Margee Berry, White Salmon, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 62 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 60mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
18/35
Chicken Salad in Baskets
From the Recipe Creator:
When I first made these cute little cups, they were a big hit. Now my husband often asks me to fix them for meetings and parties. —Gwendolyn Fae Trapp, Strongsville, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 140 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 223mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
19/35
Meyer Lemon Bars
From the Recipe Creator:
The lovely, anticipated flavor of seasonal Meyer lemons shines in these sweet and citrusy Meyer lemon bars. —Nancy Mock, Southbridge, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 bar: 189 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 59mg cholesterol, 108mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
20/35
Cucumber Canapes
From the Recipe Creator:
I always get requests for the recipe for these canapes whenever I serve them. They're delicate finger sandwiches with a creamy herb spread and festive red and green garnishes. —Nadine Whittaker, South Plymouth, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 canape: 120 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 7mg cholesterol, 134mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
21/35
Cheesy Vegetable Garden Tart
From the Recipe Creator:
Flower focaccia has been the rage recently, so I took this beautiful trend and applied it to a simple, savory vegetarian tart. I topped it with herbaceous Boursin and Parmesan, then decorated it with a medley of veggies. —Juls Palmer, Lebanon, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 171 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 20mg cholesterol, 161mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
22/35
Lavender Shortbread Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Lavender flowers can be used fresh or dried in cooking and baking. Their floral flavor is perfect for delicate shortbread cookies! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 cookie: 71 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 37mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
23/35
Rose Petal Honey
From the Recipe Creator:
This delicious recipe is a perfect topping for toast or English muffins. It is so simple to make and will impress guests at tea.—Mary Kay Dixson, Decatur, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 39 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 2mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
24/35
Fruit and Cheese Platter
From the Recipe Creator:
Who says cheese and sausage get to have all the fun? Make this fruit charcuterie board a party go-to with any that are in season. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 304 calories, 17g fat (8g saturated fat), 36mg cholesterol, 116mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (30g sugars, 4g fiber), 7g protein.
25/35
Parmesan Scones
From the Recipe Creator:
The addition of onions gives these scones a nice bite. You can even stir in some basil or oregano if you like. —Jolie Stinson, Marion, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 scone: 378 calories, 21g fat (12g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 551mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 11g protein.
26/35
Carrot Cake Jam
From the Recipe Creator:
For a change of pace from berry jams, try this unique option. Spread on a bagel with cream cheese, it tastes almost as good as real carrot cake! —Rachelle Stratton, Rock Springs, Wyoming
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 88 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 2mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (22g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
27/35
Tea Cakes
From the Recipe Creator:
I’ve baked many batches of cookies through the years, but family and friends tell me these southern treats are the best. The simple buttery flavor appeals to all. —Doris McGough, Dothan, AL
Nutrition Facts:
1 tea cake: 74 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 17mg cholesterol, 54mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
28/35
Salmon Mousse
From the Recipe Creator:
It’s so easy to top crunchy cucumber slices with a smooth and creamy salmon filling. Guests rave about the fun presentation, contrasting textures and refreshing flavor. —Barb Templin, Norwood, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 canape: 42 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 72mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
29/35
Palmier Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
It takes just two ingredients to make these impressive but easy-to-do French pastries, which are often called palm leaves. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 pastry: 83 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 0mg cholesterol, 34mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
30/35
Prosciutto and Melon
From the Recipe Creator:
Appetizers don't get much simpler than this classic. Basil adds color to the platter, and a balsamic-honey glaze adds sweet-savory flavor. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 49 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 279mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
31/35
Garlic-Herb Mini Quiches
From the Recipe Creator:
Looking for a wonderful way to impress guests? You’ve got it—and you need only five ingredients to make these tasty apps! —Josephine Piro, Easton, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 mini quiche: 31 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 32mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
32/35
Mini Chocolate Chip Muffins
From the Recipe Creator:
I bake a lot of different muffins, but this is the recipe I use the most. Their small size makes them difficult to resist! —Joanne Shew Chuk, St. Benedict, Saskatchewan
Nutrition Facts:
2 each: 110 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 87mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
33/35
Very Berry Spread
From the Recipe Creator:
Two kinds of berries make this jam deliciously different. I always keep some on hand. —Irene Hagel, Choiceland, Saskatchewan
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 86 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 22g carbohydrate (20g sugars, 1g fiber), 0 protein.
34/35
Blini Recipe
From the Recipe Creator:
Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with bite-sized blinis! These small savory pancakes can get topped with all your favorite ingredients—from caviar to pickled veggies, the options are endless. —Margaret Knoebel, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 pancake (without toppings): 34 calories, 1g fat (1g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 74mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
35/35
Turkey Tea Sandwiches with Basil Mayonnaise
From the Recipe Creator:
Basil mayonnaise is the secret to these tasty little sandwiches. Keep any extra mayo in the fridge to spread on other sandwiches, stir into egg salad or layer on pizza crust before topping it with other ingredients. —Lara Pennell, Mauldin, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 tea sandwich: 90 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 9mg cholesterol, 230mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 5g protein.
Tea Party Food FAQ
What is a traditional tea party menu?
A traditional tea party menu consists of tea, finger sandwiches, scones and desserts. Sometimes they’re served in courses, in that order, while other times everything comes out all at once on a three-tier tray. If you’re using a tiered tray, plate the savory options on the bottom tier, the scones in the middle and the desserts on top.
For the savory bites, serve finger sandwiches, mini quiches, gougeres, spinach puffs, phyllo cups filled with seafood salad and savory tartlettes. For the scone plate, place one or two scones alongside clotted cream and homemade jams or jellies. A few shortbread and mini muffins are a great addition as well. For the dessert course, have fun with a mixture of pretty French or British desserts, like macarons, fruit tarts, madeleines, petits fours and layered cakes.
How much food should I make for a tea party?
The amount of food to make for a tea party depends on how many people are coming. Plan for each person to have three savories, two scones with all the toppings and two to three desserts. If you’re using a tiered platter, you can normally feed two to four people per tier, depending on the size. For larger parties, set out several tiered platters or just fill out the table with more plates of tea party foods so there is enough for everyone.
What type of tea should I offer at a tea party?
It’s best to offer a variety of teas for each course that pair well with the menu. Serve black, oolong or earthy green tea for the savory course. For the scone and dessert courses, try more fragrant or floral teas, such as Earl Grey, rooibos or chamomile. Be choosy with the pairings, so the flavors make sense. A vanilla rooibos or pu-erh tea (a dark, fermented tea) would be a much better match for chocolate cake than delicate jasmine, which pairs with light and creamy desserts, like fruit tarts and panna cotta.
