There's something incredibly sophisticated about sipping on a hot cup of tea and enjoying a small, delicate pastry. Whether you're hosting a formal afternoon tea or wanting to add a touch of elegance to your daily routine, these six pastries are absolutely perfect for high tea.
1. Macarons
These dainty French delights have easily become a staple in high tea pastry offerings. With their soft, chewy centres and crisp outer shells, macarons offer a delicate balance of sweetness and texture. Plus, they come in a variety of flavors, from traditional vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous options like matcha and lavender. Here's a great macaron recipe to get you started.
2. Madeleines
These classic French pastries are light, buttery, and absolutely perfect with a cup of tea. Typically baked in a shell-shaped mold, madeleines have a distinctive shape that adds to their charm. They're often flavored with lemon zest, but you can also find variations with almond, chocolate, or honey. Try baking them at home with this fantastic madeleine recipe.
3. Petit Fours
If you're looking for variety, petit fours are the way to go. These bite-sized pastries can encompass a range of flavors and styles, from tiny layered cakes to small tarts or squares. They're often decorated with delicate icing or garnished with a small piece of fruit. Check out this petit four guide for ideas and recipes.
4. Scones
Scones are a traditional favorite at high tea, especially served with clotted cream and jam. These British treats are a cross between a biscuit and a roll, with a slightly sweet and crumbly texture. They can be flavored with dried fruit, such as currants or raisins, or with savory ingredients like cheese. Here's a simple scone recipe to try.
5. Mini Eclairs
Mini eclairs bring a touch of decadence to your high tea spread. These small pastries are filled with a creamy custard and topped with a glossy chocolate glaze. Despite their fancy appearance, they're surprisingly easy to make. Try this delicious mini eclair recipe.
6. Tartlets
Tiny tartlets are another versatile option for high tea. You can fill these little pastries with everything from lemon curd to chocolate ganache or fruit preserves. And their small size makes them perfect for a single, elegant bite. Start making tartlets with this fantastic tartlet recipe.
With these six pastries, any high tea can feel like a luxurious event. Remember, the key is quality over quantity. These treats may be small, but they are sure to impress with their delicate flavors and beautiful presentation.
