If you’re looking for a special way to celebrate Father’s Day, why not host an afternoon tea for the man of the hour? This classic English tradition is an elegant way to show your dad how much you care. And the good news is, you don’t have to be a pastry chef to make it happen. With a few simple recipes and some clever decorating ideas, you’ll be able to create a delightful spread that will be sure to impress. So grab your teapot and let’s get started!
The perfect tea
Before we start talking about the food, let’s talk about the tea itself. After all, it’s the centerpiece of any proper afternoon tea. When it comes to selecting tea for your event, there are a few things to consider. Traditionally, black teas like Earl Grey, Assam or Darjeeling are served for afternoon tea. However, green tea, white tea, and even herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint can be used as well. It all depends on your preferences and those of your guests, so make sure to have a variety on hand. And don’t forget the milk, sugar and lemon wedges!
The finger sandwiches
When it comes to the food portion of your afternoon tea, finger sandwiches are a must-have. These dainty sandwiches are perfect bite-sized treats that can be filled with anything from ham and cheese to cucumber and cream cheese. Here are a few easy recipes to get you started:
Egg Salad Sandwiches
You’ll need:
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 2 tbsp. mayonnaise
• 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Sliced bread
Directions:
In a bowl, mix together the chopped eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, salt and pepper. Spread the mixture onto a slice of bread, top with another slice of bread, and cut into four small sandwiches. Serve immediately.
Cucumber and Cream Cheese Sandwiches
You’ll need:
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• Sliced bread
Directions:
Sprinkle the cucumber slices with salt and pepper. Spread a thick layer of cream cheese onto a slice of bread, top with the cucumber slices, and cut into four small sandwiches. Serve immediately.
Ham and Cheese Sandwiches
You’ll need:
• 8 oz. thinly sliced ham
• 4 oz. thinly sliced cheddar cheese
• Sliced bread
Directions:
Layer the ham and cheese on a slice of bread, top with another slice of bread, and cut into four small sandwiches. Serve immediately.
The scones
No afternoon tea is complete without scones. These popular pastries are enjoyed with jam and clotted cream, which makes them a delicious treat for dad. Here’s an easy recipe that will help you make perfect scones every time:
Classic Scones
You’ll need:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 2 tsp. baking powder
• ½ tsp. baking soda
• ½ tsp. salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400°F. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, and vanilla. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, and stir until just combined. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently. Pat the dough into a large circle about 1-inch thick. Using a 2-inch biscuit cutter, cut out the scones and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown on top. Serve warm with jam and clotted cream.
The sweet treats
Finally, no afternoon tea is complete without some sweet treats. These indulgent desserts can be anything from dainty petit fours to elaborate cakes. Here are a few easy recipes that are sure to delight your dad:
Chocolate Truffles
You’ll need:
• 8 oz. dark chocolate, chopped
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
• Cocoa powder, for dusting
Directions:
In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate over simmering water. In a separate saucepan, heat the cream and butter until the butter is melted and the cream is hot. Add the hot cream to the melted chocolate and stir until smooth. Allow the mixture to cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, until firm. Roll the mixture into small balls and dust with cocoa powder. Serve immediately.
Strawberry Shortcakes
You’ll need:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp. sugar
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• ¼ tsp. baking soda
• ¼ tsp. salt
• 4 tbsp. unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
• ⅓ cup buttermilk
• 1 cup sweetened whipped cream
• 1 cup sliced strawberries
Directions:
Preheat oven to 425°F. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the buttermilk and stir until just combined. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and pat it into a circle about ½-inch thick. Use a 3-inch biscuit cutter to cut out six circles. Place the circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until lightly golden. Allow the shortcakes to cool, then split them in half. Add a dollop of whipped cream and a few slices of strawberries. Serve immediately.
Lemon Bars
You’ll need:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp. lemon juice
• 1 tsp. lemon zest
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the flour until the dough comes together. Press the dough into a lightly greased 8-inch square baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the crust is lightly golden. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, flour, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Pour the mixture over the crust and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the filling is set. Allow the bars to cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar and cut into squares. Serve immediately.
Decorating your table
Part of the fun of hosting an afternoon tea is setting up a beautiful table for your guests to enjoy. Here are a few tips for creating the perfect ambiance:
• Use pretty floral teacups and saucers
• Create a centerpiece using fresh flowers or a teapot filled with flowers
• Use a lace tablecloth or a pretty table runner
• Add some tea-inspired decor such as vintage teapots or tea tins
• Serve your tea and food on tiered cake stands for a touch of elegance
Conclusion
Hosting an afternoon tea for Father’s Day is a beautiful way to show your dad how much you love and appreciate him. With simple and delicious recipes, and a few thoughtful decorating touches, you’ll be able to create a beautiful and elegant spread that everyone will enjoy. So go ahead, dust off your teapot and show your dad just how special he is. Happy Father’s Day!
