Heading 1: Spoiling Dad with a Special Father’s Day Afternoon Tea: Recipes and Ideas
Heading 2: Introduction
Father’s Day is a special day to celebrate the wonderful contribution our dads have made in our lives. It is an opportunity to show them how much we appreciate all that they do, and what better way to do that than by spoiling them with a special Afternoon Tea. Father’s Day is just around the corner, and planning the perfect afternoon tea for dad is a great way to make him feel loved and appreciated.
Heading 2: The Basics of Afternoon Tea
Before we get into the recipes and ideas for a special Father’s Day Afternoon Tea, let’s take a look at the basics of traditional Afternoon Tea. Afternoon Tea traditionally begins at around 3 pm and includes a variety of sandwiches, scones, cakes, pastries, and of course, tea. The food is typically served on a three-tiered stand, with the sandwiches on the bottom tier, the scones in the middle, and the cakes and pastries on the top tier.
Heading 3: Tea Selection
The tea selection is an important part of an Afternoon Tea. Choose a selection of high-quality loose leaf teas, including black, green, herbal, and fruit blends. It’s important to offer a range of choices to cater to different tastes.
Heading 3: Savory Sandwiches
The sandwiches are an essential part of Afternoon Tea, and there are a variety of options to choose from. Here are a few sandwich ideas that are perfect for a Father’s Day Afternoon Tea:
1. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwiches
Ingredients:
– 8 thin slices of smoked salmon
– 6 oz. cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 8 slices of brown bread
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, lemon juice, and dill.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay the smoked salmon slices on each slice of bread.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the smoked salmon slices.
5. Close the sandwiches and cut into quarters.
2. Ham and Cheese Sandwiches
Ingredients:
– 8 slices of ham
– 4 oz. cheddar cheese, sliced
– 8 slices of white bread
– Butter, softened
– Dijon mustard
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Spread butter and Dijon mustard on one side of each bread slice.
2. Layer the ham and cheddar cheese on each slice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Close the sandwiches and cut into quarters.
Heading 3: Scones
Scones are one of the most popular items in an Afternoon Tea. They can be served with jam and clotted cream or a savory spread. Here’s a recipe for classic scones that are perfect for Father’s Day:
Classic Scones
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape into a circle.
7. Cut the dough into 8-10 triangular wedges.
8. Brush the tops of the scones with milk and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Heading 3: Sweet Treats
The sweet treats are the perfect way to end your Father’s Day Afternoon Tea. Here are a few recipe ideas to inspire you:
1. Mini Apple Pies
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 package of refrigerated pie dough
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and melted butter.
3. Roll out the pie dough and cut into circles using a cookie cutter.
4. Place the circles in a muffin tin and press against the sides.
5. Add the apple mixture to the pie crusts.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
2. Chocolate Brownies
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup cocoa powder
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
4. Add the flour and salt and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Heading 2: Table Decorations
To make your Father’s Day Afternoon Tea even more special, consider adding some special decorations to the table. Here are a few ideas:
1. Themed Tablecloth – choose a themed tablecloth that your dad will love.
2. Floral Centerpiece – a simple but elegant floral centerpiece will add a touch of sophistication to your table.
3. Personalized Place Cards – create place cards with your dad’s name on them to add a personal touch.
4. Decorative Tea Set – serve your tea in a decorative tea set to add some flair to your table.
Heading 2: Conclusion
Father’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show your dad how much you love and appreciate him. A special Father’s Day Afternoon Tea is the perfect way to do just that. By following these recipe and decoration ideas, you will be able to create a memorable and delicious event that dad will cherish. Remember to take some photos to commemorate the day and enjoy the special time with your dad. Happy Father’s Day!
