Planning a tea party or an afternoon tea gathering can feel overwhelming - that's why I'm here with your complete guide on What To Serve With Tea.
Whether you’re hosting good friends for a special occasion, celebrating baby showers, or simply treating yourself to a cup of hot or iced tea, having the perfect menu makes all the difference.
This collection of afternoon tea recipes takes the guesswork out of what to serve alongside your favorite tea, from classic scones and sweet treats to dainty sandwiches and savory options.
Inside, you’ll find inspiration for everything from finger foods and mini quiches to Victoria sponge and fresh fruit - a true great way to put together a spread that’s as charming as it is delicious.
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Scones & Biscuits: The Classic Tea Companion
No afternoon tea is complete without classic scones or cream scones — the right food for pairing with everything from strong black tea or English breakfast tea to more delicate brews like white tea or Earl Grey.
Scones are a great option because they straddle the line between sweet treat and light meal, especially when served with strawberry jam, lemon curd, clotted cream, or fresh herbs.
1. Strawberry Scones
photo credit: I Heart Eating
These tender scones are dotted with sweet strawberries — lovely for pairing with sweet tea or a pot of green tea.
Recipe here: Strawberry Scones
2. Blueberry Brown Butter Scones
photo credit: Knead Some Sweets
A simple recipe with rich, nutty brown butter flavor that’s ideal for an own afternoon tea party at home.
Recipe here: Blueberry Brown Butter Scones
3. Glazed Orange Scones (Copycat Panera Bread)
photo credit: Salads, Soups and Sweets
Soft, buttery scones with a bright citrus flavor and sweet glaze — a fun twist on classic scones that pairs beautifully with Earl Grey or a warm cup of tea.
Recipe here: Glazed Orange Scones
4. Lemon Poppyseed Scones
photo credit: Chenee Today
Bright and citrusy, these scones are delicious with Earl Grey or herbal tea.
Recipe here: Lemon Poppyseed Scones
5. Mixed Berry Scones
photo credit: The Fresh Cooky
Bursting with juicy blueberries and raspberries, these scones are a great way to add color and fresh fruit flavor to your tea time.
Recipe here: Glazed Raspberry Blueberry Scones
6. Chocolate Chip Scones
photo credit: The Cookin Chicks
A fun twist on tradition — perfect for tea parties where finger foods and sweet treats are the star.
Recipe here: Chocolate Chip Scones
7. Afternoon Tea Scones
photo credit: Christina's Cucina
These traditional scones are ideal for serving with strawberry jam and cream at your next special event.
Recipe here: British Afternoon Tea Scones
8. Strawberry Rhubarb Scones
photo credit: Milk Glass Home
Sweet, tart, and perfect for adding seasonal flair to your tea party food.
Recipe here: Strawberry Rhubarb Scones
9. Cranberry Orange Scones
photo credit: She's Not Cookin'
A lovely light snack for pairing with lapsang souchong or light tea.
Recipe here: Starbucks Cranberry Orange Scones Copycat
10. Lemon Almond Scones
photo credit: XOXO Bella
A slightly nutty, citrusy scone that pairs beautifully with white tea.
Recipe here: Lemon Almond Scones
11. Quick and Easy Scones
photo credit: Join Your Life
For when you want small bites without the fuss, this simple recipe is your best gift to yourself on a busy day.
Recipe here: Quick and Easy Scones
12. Strawberry Lemon Scones
photo credit: Cinnamon and Sage Co.
These scones combine two classic flavors and are lovely with a cup of green tea.
Recipe here: Strawberry Lemon Scones
13. Peach Scones
photo credit: The Salty Marshmallow
Juicy peach flavor makes these a great option for summer tea parties and baby showers.
Recipe here: Peach Scones
Tea Cakes & Loaves
Soft, sweet cakes and moist loaves are a wonderful addition to any tea party or afternoon tea spread.
These treats offer the right balance of sweetness without being too heavy, making them ideal for tea time or a light afternoon tea.
14. Victoria Sponge Cake
photo credit: An Edible Mosaic
A timeless British favorite, this light and airy sponge cake layered with jam and cream is a must-have for any afternoon tea.
Recipe here: Victoria Sponge Cake
15. Lemon Loaf
photo credit: Salads, Soups, and Sweets
A bright and zesty lemon loaf that’s moist and tender, ideal for serving alongside a warm cup of tea.
Recipe here: Lemon Loaf Recipe
16. Hummingbird Cake
photo credit: Little Sunny Kitchen
A southern classic loaded with pineapple, banana, and pecans, topped with a cream cheese frosting for a rich treat.
Recipe here: Hummingbird Cake
17. Basic Vanilla Sponge Cake
photo credit: Plate to Palate
Simple, fluffy, and versatile — the perfect base for any teatime dessert.
Recipe here: Basic Vanilla Sponge Cake
18. Blueberry Coffee Cake
photo credit: Cinnamon and Sage Co.
With a crumbly streusel topping and bursts of blueberry, this coffee cake is a delicious sweet option for your tea spread.
Recipe here: Blueberry Coffee Cake
19. Apple Cider Coffee Cake
photo credit: Home Cooking Collective
Featuring warm apple and cinnamon flavors with a streusel glaze, this coffee cake brings cozy vibes to your teatime.
Recipe here: Apple Cider Coffee Cake
20. Strawberry Crumb Cake
photo credit: Crayons and Cravings
A tender crumb cake loaded with fresh strawberries and a sweet crumb topping—perfect alongside tea.
Recipe here: Strawberry Crumb Cake
21. Lemon Blueberry Bread
photo credit: Love From The Oven
Moist and fruity, this quick bread pairs perfectly with lemon and blueberry flavors for a refreshing tea time treat.
Recipe here: Lemon Blueberry Bread
Cookies, Biscuits & Bars
No tea party is complete without a selection of delicate cookies, buttery biscuits, and sweet bars.
These small bites are perfect finger foods that pair beautifully with different types of teas - from the bold notes of lapsang souchong or strong black tea to the subtle flavors of white tea or herbal blends.
22. French Financiers
photo credit: Living Sweet Moments
Light and buttery, French financiers are a classic almond cake-like cookie that pairs wonderfully with Earl Grey or green tea.
Recipe here: French Financiers
23. Lemon Madeleines
photo credit: Living Sweet Moments
These classic, dainty, shell-shaped lemon madeleines offer a burst of citrus flavor and are a traditional choice for high tea.
Recipe here: Lemon Madeleines
24. Ladyfingers
photo credit: Little Nonni
A staple for tiramisu and many tea cakes, these light and airy ladyfingers offer a perfect balance to a strong black tea.
Recipe here: Ladyfingers
25. Lemon Curd Cookies
photo credit: Salads, Soups, and Sweets
These delicate cookies are soft, buttery, and perfect for pairing with a cup of tea. They bring a refreshing twist to your traditional tea time cookie selection.
Recipe here: Lemon Curd Cookies
26. Lemon Lavender Cookies
photo credit: Pure and Simple Nourishment
Combining citrus and lavender, these cookies are both fragrant and flavorful, perfect dainty treats for tea parties. Recipe here: Lemon Lavender Cookies
27. Gooey Butter Cookies
photo credit: Small Town Woman
These indulgent gooey butter cookies offer a rich texture that pairs nicely with a light tea or as a sweet tea party treat.
Recipe here: Gooey Butter Cookies
28. Cardamom Blondies
photo credit: Milk Glass Home
A fragrant twist on classic blondies, cardamom adds a warm, spicy note that pairs perfectly with a cozy tea.
Recipe here: Cardamom Blondies
29. Lemon Biscuits
photo credit: The Monday Box
With a tangy lemon flavor, these biscuits are an excellent pairing for both green and black teas.
Recipe here: Lemon Biscuits
30. Italian Orange Almond Cookies
photo credit: Jello Joy
Crisp, nutty, and lightly citrusy, these cookies bring a sophisticated flavor to your tea table.
Recipe here: Italian Orange Almond Cookies
31. Date Filled Oatmeal Cookies
photo credit: She's Not Cookin'
Chewy and wholesome with a sweet date center, these oatmeal cookies are a comforting choice for tea time.
Recipe here: Date Filled Oatmeal Cookies
32. Old-Fashioned Iced Oatmeal Cookies
photo credit: Salads, Soups, and Sweets
Classic and nostalgic, these iced oatmeal cookies offer a sweet and satisfying bite alongside your tea.
Recipe here: Iced Oatmeal Cookies
33. Hazelnut Biscotti
photo credit: Buttered Veg
Crunchy and nutty, hazelnut biscotti are ideal for dipping in your tea or coffee.
Recipe here: Hazelnut Biscotti
34. Cranberry Biscotti
photo credit: In The Kitch
Sweet and tart, these cranberry biscotti provide a festive note and a perfect crunch with tea.
Recipe here: Cranberry Biscotti
Jams, Compotes & Spreads
No proper cream tea or tea party is complete without the right spreads to accompany traditional scones, bread, or biscuits. Offering a balance between sweet treats and savory options, jams and compotes add bright, fresh fruit flavors that perfectly complement the art of tea pairing. Whether you’re serving classic scones or mini cakes on a tiered cake stand, these simple recipes are a great way to elevate your tea time menu for any special occasion or light afternoon tea.
35. Strawberry Freezer Jam
photo credit: Salads, Soups, and Sweets
Quick and easy to make, this fresh strawberry freezer jam is ideal for those who want homemade goodness without long cooking times. It’s perfect for spreading on warm scones or mini sandwiches.
Recipe here: Strawberry Freezer Jam
36. Jalapeno Peach Jam
photo credit: Salads, Soups, and Sweets
For a sweet and spicy twist, try this jalapeno peach jam that adds a surprising kick to your tea party offerings. It’s a great option to serve with savory snacks or cream cheese-topped breads.
Recipe here: Jalapeno Peach Jam
37. Blueberry Compote
photo credit: All You Need Is Brunch
This easy blueberry compote bursts with fresh fruit flavor, making it a wonderful topping for tea cakes or a dollop on a warm scone.
Recipe here: Blueberry Compote
38. Raspberry Jam
photo credit: Recipes From A Pantry
A fragrant and slightly floral raspberry jam infused with rosewater, this spread pairs beautifully with cream scones or simple white bread.
Recipe here: Raspberry Jam
39. Peach Compote
photo credit: Well Fed Baker
Sweet, tender peach compote that brings a summery feel to your tea table. Pair it with biscuits or use it as a topping for muffins or pound cake.
Recipe here: Peach Compote
Savory Bites (Sandwiches, Quiche & Savory Pastries)
Balance your tea party menu with these savory options that complement sweet treats perfectly, because tea time isn’t just about sweets! For little sandwiches to
40. Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches
photo credit: All You Need Is Brunch
Classic mini sandwiches filled with creamy chicken salad—an essential savory treat for any tea party.
Recipe here: Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches
41. Poppy Seed Chicken Salad
photo credit: Whiskful Cooking
A twist on traditional chicken salad with poppy seeds adding crunch and flavor.
Recipe here: Poppy Seed Chicken Salad
42. Chicken Salad With Grapes
photo credit: Celebrating Simply
Sweet grapes add a refreshing bite to this creamy chicken salad, ideal for tea sandwiches or finger foods.
Recipe here: Chicken Salad With Grapes
43. Tuna Salad Finger Sandwiches
photo credit: The Buttered Gnocchi
Light and flavorful tuna salad served on soft white bread, perfect for dainty tea sandwiches.
Recipe here: Tuna Salad Finger Sandwiches
44. Egg Salad
photo credit: The Forked Spoon
Simple and creamy egg salad, a timeless choice for tea sandwiches.
Recipe here: Egg Salad
45. Dill Pickle Egg Salad
photo credit: Simple and Fraiche
Egg salad with a tangy twist from dill pickles - great for adding variety to your tea party savory treats.
Recipe here: Dill Pickle Egg Salad
46. Crustless Ham and Cheese Quiche
photo credit: The Cookin' Chicks
A light, crust-free quiche filled with savory ham and melted cheese — perfect for a low tea or brunch.
Recipe here: Crustless Ham and Cheese Quiche
47. Spinach and Gruyere Quiche
photo credit: Quiet Baking Day
This quiche blends fresh spinach with rich Gruyere cheese for a savory and elegant tea-time option.
Recipe here: Spinach and Gruyere Quiche
48. Bacon and Spinach Quiche
photo credit: Haute and Healthy Living
A savory, satisfying quiche featuring bacon and spinach, a great option for light afternoon tea.
Recipe here: Bacon and Spinach Quiche
49. Ham and Asparagus Frittata
photo credit: Athlete Lunchbox
A light and protein-packed frittata perfect for a morning tea or light meal.
Recipe here: Ham and Asparagus Frittata
50. Crustless Zucchini Quiche with Goat Cheese
photo credit: When Salty and Sweet Unite
A delicious crustless quiche made with fresh zucchini and tangy goat cheese — a refined savory treat.
Recipe here: Crustless Zucchini Quiche with Goat Cheese
Muffins, Small Cakes & Pastries
These dainty recipes are just right for tea time. Whether you’re serving mini cakes, pastries, or small bites, these sweet treats fit beautifully on any cake stand or tiered platter for your own afternoon tea party.
51. Blueberry Muffins with Buttermilk
photo credit: Salads, Soups, and Sweets
These classic blueberry muffins are soft, fluffy, and packed with juicy blueberries. The buttermilk adds a tender crumb and slight tang, making them a wonderful companion to a warm cup of tea or iced tea.
Recipe here: Blueberry Muffin Recipe with Buttermilk
52. Strawberry Rhubarb Muffins
photo credit: My Rad Kitchen
Moist, sweet muffins with fresh strawberries and tart rhubarb - a great addition to your tea menu, offering a touch of fresh fruit flavor.
Recipe here: Strawberry Rhubarb Muffins
53. Rock Cakes
photo credit: Recipe Tale
A classic tea party food, these simple, small cakes are filled with dried fruit and have a rustic, crumbly texture.
Recipe here: Rock Cakes
54. Rhubarb Drop Biscuits
photo credit: My Chef's Apron
Light and slightly sweet with hints of rosemary, these biscuits bring a unique twist to tea time finger foods.
Recipe here: Sweet Rhubarb Rosemary Biscuits
55. Mini Carrot Cakes
photo credit: Salads, Soups, and Sweets
Perfectly portioned mini cakes with warm spices and a sweet cream cheese frosting — a dainty choice for any tea party or special event.
Recipe here: Mini Carrot Cakes
Fruit & Salads
Add a refreshing touch to your tea party with fresh fruit or light salads. These pair wonderfully with both sweet and savory tea time offerings, offering a crisp, vibrant balance to your menu.
56. Fruit Salad
photo credit: In The Kid's Kitchen
A colorful mix of fresh berries and fruit that brings brightness to your tea table. A great option for a light snack or a complement to sweet treats.
Recipe here: Easy Berry Fruit Salad
57. Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
photo credit: Deliciously Home Cooked
This vibrant rainbow fruit salad is tossed in a sweet and tangy honey lime dressing — a fresh fruit option that’s perfect for a warm afternoon tea.
Recipe here: Rainbow Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
58. Cranberry Apple Grape Salad
photo credit: Whiskful Cooking
This sweet and tangy fruit salad combines crisp apples, juicy grapes, and tart cranberries for a delightful treat. It’s a fun twist on classic fruit salads and makes a lovely light afternoon tea choice.
Recipe here: Cranberry Apple Grape Salad
Charlotte says
I LOVE tea time! This list of recipes looks so good I can't wait to try them especially the scones!