Afternoon tea recipes

The quintessential British afternoon tea featured elaborate finger foods and was served in a series of carefully observed rituals in elegant surroundings. We've got all the recipes you need, from perfect scones to indulgent mini cakes and tarts.

See all afternoon tea recipes

Editor's choice

Everyone needs a tried and true scone recipe as part of their cooking repertoire, especially if you’re British. This classic version is light and airy, thanks to the addition of natural yogurt, with an egg wash glaze.

Perfect scone

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A seasonal spin on the classic teatime treat, gorgeously tart rhubarb is a heavenly match for creamy custard and flaky pastry in these moreish Portugese tarts

Rhubarb and custard Portuguese tarts

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This healthy bake has all the classic flavour of an indulgent carrot cake recipe, but makes a healthy treat for kids and adults alike, as the cake is sweetened with apple, banana and sultanas and cut into snack-size squares.

Carrot cake squares

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This cheesy, green veggie bread is probably the easiest loaf you’ll ever bake. There’s no kneading involved and it’s made with gluten-free flour too – so it’s perfect for everyone to enjoy.

Gluten-free courgette and feta bread

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Put a twist on classic buttery shortbread with fragrant rosemary and a drizzle of lemon icing for an elegant afternoon tea treat. Using self-raising flour creates a softer shortbread for delicious crumbly results.

Rosemary shortbreads with lemon icing

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These mini savoury muffins, packed with creamy goat's cheese, silky baby spinach and fragrant chives, are perfect for packing into your lunch box or enjoying as an afternoon treat

Goat's cheese, spinach and herb mini muffins

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This thrifty recipe uses smoked mackerel, fresh filo pastry and a dollop of crème fraiche to create a savoury treat that feels of decadence, without any hard work. The tartlets can also be served as part of an afternoon tea or a brunch spread

Peppered mackerel tartlets

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Master the best vanilla cupcake recipe with these simple delights. Fluffy, golden sponge is topped with a swirl of rich vanilla buttercream for an easy bake that will be the star of any birthday party, afternoon tea or bake sale.

Easy vanilla cupcakes

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Popular afternoon tea recipes

Earl grey ham

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Gammon joints are great when cooked with added flavours. Here the quintessentially British Earl Grey tea works in a winning way with brown sugar and mustard to deliver up something special. Great for long weekends and celebrations.

Serves 10
2hrs 15 mins, plus resting
201 calories

Sticky toffee pudding

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Learn how to make sticky toffee pudding and tuck into this classic British dessert – a moist sponge made with medjool dates drenched in super-sticky toffee sauce.

Serves 8
25 mins to prepare and 50 mins to cook, plus soaking and sitting time
503 calories

Iced tea

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There’s nothing better than a cooling, citrus-scented glass of iced tea for ultimate refreshment. This classic lemon iced tea is easy to make at home, and you can ring the changes with your favourite teas and garnishes. Add the sugar for a sweeter drink or leave out for a stronger tea flavour. Master how to make iced tea and you'll be sure to make it again and again.