Discovering Afternoon Tea
My Favorite is Classic Afternoon Tea and I remember the first time I experienced a traditional afternoon tea. It was at a quaint little tea room in the heart of London, filled with the aroma of freshly brewed tea and the comforting scent of baked goods. The elegant setting, with its porcelain teapots and delicate china cups, instantly transported me to a different era. That day, I fell in love with the ritual of afternoon tea—the combination of savory and sweet treats, the warm scones with clotted cream and preserves, and the soothing taste of loose leaf tea. It was a moment of pure delight and relaxation, one that I wanted to recreate at home.
Crafting the Perfect Tea Experience
Creating my own classic afternoon tea at home became a cherished tradition. I started by selecting the perfect tea blend—loose leaf black tea with a hint of dried rose petals for a floral touch. The savory bites were always a hit: cucumber sandwiches with dill cream cheese, chicken salad rolls, and smoked salmon blinis topped with chive crème fraiche. These little sandwiches and bites were not only delicious but also added a touch of elegance to the tea spread. I found that preparing these savory treats was a delightful way to spend an afternoon, and the end result was always rewarding.
Baking Signature Scones
The highlight of any afternoon tea, for me, is the signature scones. I love the process of making them, from mixing the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt, to cutting in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Adding raisins or dried cranberries gives the scones a delightful sweetness. Once the dough is ready, I knead it gently, pat it into a circle, and cut it into wedges. The smell of scones baking in the oven fills the kitchen with a warm, comforting aroma. Serving them warm with clotted cream and strawberry lavender preserves is always a treat that my guests eagerly await.
Sweet Treats and Finishing Touches
No afternoon tea is complete without an assortment of sweet treats. I like to arrange Scottish shortbread, mini Meyer lemon tarts, dark chocolate blackberry macarons, and apple & white chocolate tartlets on a tiered stand. These desserts add a burst of color and flavor to the tea table, making the experience even more special. Accompanying the tea with these delightful sweets creates a perfect balance of flavors. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy afternoon at home, this classic afternoon tea setup always brings joy and a sense of timeless charm.
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Chef’s Notes-Classic Afternoon Tea
- Ensure your butter is very cold when making scones. This helps create a flaky texture. You can even freeze the butter and grate it into the flour mixture for better distribution.
- When forming the scone dough, handle it gently. Over-kneading can make the scones tough. Pat the dough just enough to bring it together.
- Be mindful of the steeping time for the tea. Over-steeping can make the tea bitter, so set a timer to avoid this.
- For the cucumber sandwiches, use a mandoline slicer for uniform, thin slices. This ensures even layering and a more refined bite.
- Use the freshest possible ingredients, especially for items like smoked salmon and cucumber, to ensure the best flavors.
- Arrange the treats on a three-tiered stand if possible. It not only looks elegant but also enhances the tea experience.
- Feel free to customize the savory bites and sweet treats to your preference. The recipe is versatile and can accommodate various dietary preferences.
- If you have leftovers, store the scones and desserts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Refrigerate any sandwiches or items with perishable ingredients.
FAQ-Classic Afternoon Tea
Can I make the scones ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the scone dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Bake them fresh on the day of serving for the best texture and flavor.
What’s the best way to serve clotted cream and preserves?
Serve clotted cream and strawberry lavender preserves in small bowls with spoons. Place them on the side of the scones so guests can add as much or as little as they prefer.
Can I use a different type of bread for the cucumber sandwiches?
Absolutely. While dark rye bread provides a nice contrast in flavor, you can use white, whole wheat, or even gluten-free bread based on your preferences.
How can I make the tea less bitter?
Be sure not to over-steep the tea. Steep black tea for 3-5 minutes, depending on your strength preference. Adding a bit of rock sugar or honey can also help balance any bitterness.
What are some other finger sandwiches I can add?
You can add a variety of finger sandwiches such as egg salad, ham and cheese, or roast beef with horseradish. Be creative and cater to your guests’ preferences.