Spoil Dad on Father’s Day with a Tea-Time Treat

Father’s Day is right around the corner, and if you’re looking for a unique way to show your dad how much you appreciate him, why not spoil him with a tea-time treat? While tea-time might seem like a tradition reserved for ladies only, it’s actually the perfect way to spend some quality time with the man who raised you while enjoying delicious treats. Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect Father’s Day tea for your dad.

Why Tea-Time?

Tea-time has long been a cherished tradition, particularly in the UK. It started as a light meal served in the late afternoon to bridge the gap between lunch and dinner, and typically included tea, sandwiches, scones, and cakes. Today, tea-time is seen as an opportunity to slow down, relax, and socialize with friends and family.

While tea-time might not be your first idea when it comes to celebrating Father’s Day, it’s actually an excellent option. Not only does it provide an opportunity for quality time with your dad, but it’s also a chance to indulge in delicious treats and drinks. Plus, it’s a more relaxed alternative to taking your dad out for an expensive dinner, which can be stressful and crowded on Father’s Day.

What to Serve

If you’ve never hosted a tea before, you might be wondering what to serve. The good news is that there’s no right or wrong way to do it – it’s all about what your dad likes. But to help get you started, here are a few ideas:

Tea

The tea is obviously the star of the show at a tea-time treat. While there are countless varieties to choose from, it’s always a good idea to ask your dad what his favorite is. Some popular options include black tea, green tea, herbal tea, and chai tea. Make sure to brew your tea properly (usually one teaspoon of loose-leaf tea or one tea bag per cup of hot water) and serve it alongside milk and sugar so your dad can customize his cup.

Sandwiches

Sandwiches are a classic tea-time food, and the options are endless. Keep it simple with cucumber and cream cheese, or get creative with roasted vegetables, smoked salmon, or chicken salad. Just make sure to cut your sandwiches into bite-sized pieces so they’re easy to eat.

Scones

No tea-time treat would be complete without scones. These small, dense pastries are typically served with jam and clotted cream. You can make your own scones from scratch, or pick them up from your local bakery.

Cakes and Pastries

Finally, round out your tea-time with some sweet treats. Again, the options are endless – you could serve anything from petit fours to cupcakes to macarons. If you’re feeling ambitious, you could even try your hand at making your own pastries.

Setting the Scene

Once you’ve planned your menu, it’s time to set the scene for your tea-time treat. You don’t need to go overboard with decorations, but a few touches can go a long way in creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Here are a few ideas:

Tablecloth and Napkins

Start by covering your table with a pretty tablecloth. White or pastel colors work well for a traditional tea-time, but you could also choose a patterned or brightly colored cloth to reflect your dad’s personality. Remember to include cloth napkins, too.

Tea Set

Invest in a nice tea set if you don’t already have one. This should include a teapot, cups, and saucers. If your dad has a favorite teapot or set of cups, use that instead.

Flowers

A vase of fresh flowers is a simple way to brighten up your table. Choose your dad’s favorite blooms, or go with a cheerful mix of colors.

Candles

If you’re hosting your tea-time in the evening, add a few candles to the table for some ambiance. Stick with unscented candles to avoid conflicting with the scent of your tea and treats.

Hosting Your Tea-Time Treat

Finally, it’s time to host your tea-time treat. Here are a few tips for making the most of your time with your dad:

Invite Guests

Make your tea-time even more special by inviting a few of your dad’s friends or family members to join you. This will give you all a chance to catch up and celebrate together.

Prepare in Advance

To make sure you can enjoy your time with your dad, prepare as much as you can in advance. Brew your tea, assemble your sandwiches, and bake your scones or pastries the day before. On the day of your tea-time, all you’ll need to do is set out your food and enjoy the company.

Unplug

Finally, if you really want to make the most of your time with your dad, unplug from technology. Put your phones away, turn off the TV, and enjoy each other’s company without distractions.

Conclusion

Spoiling your dad with a tea-time treat is a unique and special way to celebrate Father’s Day. With a few simple preparations, you can create a fun and relaxing atmosphere that will make your dad feel loved and appreciated. So brew up some tea, whip up some treats, and enjoy quality time with your dad this Father’s Day.