Tea parties are coming back into trend and people are beginning to see the numerous reasons why it is a fun event to indulge with friends and loved ones.
A lot of people inherited their parents’ or grandparents’ china and tea sets, or are ardent followers of the series Bridgeton, and are getting to realize how much fun can be derived from doing something a little different and a little elegant.
To ensure that the tea party is fun and leaves lasting memories, you must take your time to come up with the right menu. So if you are considering hosting or organizing a tea party for adults, here are menu ideas guests will love.
Best Tea Party Menu ideas for Adults
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Classic Finger Sandwiches
These small, crustless sandwiches are easy to make and super ideal for pairing with tea. You can also offer a wide array of fillings to ensure there is something for everyone.
This will include cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches known to be a light and delicious option, smoked salmon and dill sandwiches that will in many ways inculcate a touch of elegance to your party, and even classic options like serving egg salad sandwiches made with a creamy egg salad and seasoned with a touch of mustard and paprika on soft white or whole grain bread.
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Scones with Clotted Cream and Jam
These are other treats you will find at most tea parties because of their rich cream and sweet jam that make it almost irresistible. However, it is recommended you serve them warm and with clotted cream and a selection of jams.
You can choose to work with just traditional flavors like strawberry and raspberry, or you can go the extra mile with unique options like fig or apricot to give this delicacy a delightful twist.
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Mini Quiches
You wouldn’t want to overlook this bite-sized delights that is easy to eat. It comes in a wide array of flavors to ensure you can cater to different preferences. You can choose to make Quiche Lorraine, which is an enjoyable blend of bacon and Swiss cheese.
It is also possible to make the vegetarian option with spinach and feta quiches, which are full of flavor and very ravishing. Other options include Mushroom and Gruyere quiches, well known for their rich, earthy taste.
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Tea Cakes and Petit Fours
Keep in mind that these tiny decorative cakes come in a wide array of flavors and styles. You can also opt for almond petit fours, small almond-flavored cakes that are layered with apricot jam, and a thin coating of fondant.
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Fruit Tartlets
Loved for its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, fruit tartlets are beautiful as they are delicious and will indeed set your tea party apart.
To make them and ensure they come out right, you need to make good use of a buttery tart shell filled with pastry cream. Note that they can be topped with a vast array of fresh fruits such as berries, kiwi, and mango.
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Stuffed Cucumber Cups
It is renowned for being a refreshing and low-carb option. It is a very good choice and one you can make by hollowing out cucumber slices and getting them filled with a wide array of mixtures to come up with a light and exciting appetizer.
You can decide to settle for hummus and red pepper stuffed cucumber cups since it is a creamy hummus base and can be topped with a slice of roasted red pepper. If you would like a cool and refreshing option, then tzatziki and dill-stuffed cucumber cups are the best options.
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Deviled Eggs
These small, flavorful bites are a crowd-pleaser and can be customized to align with varying tastes. It is pertinent to note that this treat will give your tea party another vibe as well as a touch of luxury.
Consider making smoked paprika deviled eggs to bring forth a bit of spice and depth, with a hint of smoked paprika and a slice of pickled jalapeño.
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Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Aside from the fact that it is a crowd-pleaser, note that the blend of tender asparagus, savory prosciutto, as well as sweet balsamic glaze, works to ensure a perfect balance of flavors.
Be sure to lightly steam asparagus spears before getting them wrapped in thin slices of prosciutto. Do not forget to serve with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
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Bruschetta
Bruschetta is a very versatile and flavorful dish that will most definitely lighten up the mood of your tea party menu. It is possible to offer a wide range of selection of bruschetta toppings on toasted baguette slices.
These will include options like tomatoes and basil bruschetta, which will feature fresh diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and olive oil. You can also make goat cheese and fig bruschetta pairs.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
If you plan to inculcate a sweet treat that will leave your guests wanting more, then you wouldn’t want to overlook chocolate-dipped strawberries. However, to ensure it sits nicely, it is important you only use high-quality dark chocolate for dipping.
Aside from being a healthy and delicious option, keep in mind that it is quite alluring and will bring a certain level of sophistication to your tea party.
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Savoury Cheese Straws
Cheese straws are without a doubt a mouth-watering and easy-to-make snack that will make your tea party an event to remember.
These crispy, cheesy twists are made from puff pastry and grated cheese, most often cheddar or Parmesan. To ensure they are crispy, take your time to bake them until golden.
Aside from that, it is possible to get them flavored with herbs such as rosemary or thyme to inject a new vibe. Nevertheless, be sure to serve them in a tall glass or laid on a platter to ensure a mind-blowing presentation.
12. Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Your party will retain its lively nature with this particular delicacy as it is a refreshing and perfect bite-sized appetizer super ideal for a tea party.
To make them, you will need to gouge out the cherry tomatoes and get the inside packed with a vast array of delicious mixtures.
One of the best or most common options is a creamy goat cheese and herb filling. Aside from that, you can choose to go with a tuna salad filling for a savorier option.
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Herbed Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon Canapés
Canapés for decades have been one of the topmost appetizers that works well, especially in a sophisticated tea party. Note that aside from being quite delicious, it is renowned for being visually enticing and will infuse a touch of class into your menu.
Be sure to handsomely spread herbed cream cheese on small slices of rye or pumpernickel bread, and afterward, top with a slice of smoked salmon. You would also need to finish it up with a sprig of dill and a small slice of lemon to give it more brightness.
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Mini Eclairs
This is an extraordinary dessert option that will indeed give your tea party a good level of French elegance. These small, elongated pastries are fully packed with rich pastry cream as well as topped with a glossy chocolate glaze.
This dessert option is light, airy, and ideal to ensure that your guests have something to remember about your party. Consider trying out your hand with various fillings, such as coffee or vanilla cream, to provide your guest with numerous flavors.
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Stuffed Mushrooms
To make them, you will need small, bite-sized mushrooms that will need to be judiciously filled with a combination of breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese.
If you want to make and serve a more decadent option, then you have to infuse some crumbled bacon or sausage into the filling. Be sure you bake the mushrooms until they are tender and the filling turns golden and crispy.
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Fruit Skewers
Take your time to thread pieces of fresh fruit, like strawberries, pineapple, melon, and grapes, onto small skewers. If you want to inculcate an added level of elegance, then consider getting it sprinkled with a bit of honey or mint.
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Pâté and Crostini
With this option, it is possible to offer a wide array of flavors including chicken liver or mushroom, which will be served with crispy crostini.
Note that the pâté can also be spread on the crostini and then topped with a small piece of pickled vegetable or a dollop of fruit chutney for an additional vibe or layer of flavor. Keep in mind that this appetizer will leave your guest impressed and wowed.
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Macarons
These much-loved French cookies will most definitely make your tea party a bit more elegant and classic. They are known to be colorful, with almond-based meringue cookies filled with numerous flavored creams or jams.
Some of the well-noted flavors to consider include raspberry, pistachio, and chocolate. Aside from being quite ravishing, they are a good addition to your tea party since they are visually attractive and a good dessert selection.
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Brie and Apple Crostini
There are not many options that will surpass this combination when it comes to being sweet and delicious. This will most definitely leave your guests wanting more.
To make them you have to slice the baguette into small pieces and top it with a slice of creamy Brie cheese and a thin slice of crisp apple. You can as well sprinkle a bit of honey and chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to give it an additional layer of texture and flavor.
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Mini Pavlovas
This is a light and airy dessert that will make your party the talk of the weekend. These small meringue nests are crispy on the outside but very tender on the inside. Take your time to fill them with whipped cream and top with fresh berries or a mixture of tropical fruits.
It is important to note that the blend of the sweet meringue, creamy filling, as well as fresh fruit makes this a mind-blowing dessert that is sure to excite your guests.
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Caprese Skewers
If you want to serve your guests a fresh and elegant appetizer, then you should consider this dish as it brings together the classic flavors of a Caprese salad.
You will first have to slice the cherry tomatoes, small mozzarella balls (bocconcini), and fresh basil leaves. Once you are done, get it covered with balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of sea salt before serving.
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Gourmet Popcorn
They are known to be fun and you can offer a vast array of flavors to align with the varying tastes and wants of guests. You can choose to make yours unique by including things like truffle and Parmesan, caramel and sea salt, or a spicy chili and lime blend. Nevertheless, do not forget to serve the popcorn in small, classic bowls or paper cones for a perfect presentation.
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Mini Tartines
This refers to open-faced sandwiches that are known to be quite popular, loved by people of varying age brackets, and also versatile.
However, you will have to utilize slices of baguette or small artisan bread and top with a wide assortment of spreads and toppings.
Some of the most common combinations include goat cheese with honey and walnuts, ricotta with lemon zest and herbs, or avocado with radish slices and a sprinkle of sea salt.
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Pesto Stuffed Cherry Peppers
While it is delicious and enticing to the eyes, it is also easy to make especially since all you have to do is gouge out cherry peppers and get them packed with a combination of pesto, cream cheese, and finely chopped pine nuts.
Keep in mind that it makes for a vibrant and tasty bite that will leave guests wondering due to the vast contrast of flavors and textures.
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Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Lavender shortbread cookies will in many ways tune up your party with its floral elegance. It is important to point out that this very ravishing, buttery, and delicate cookie is also made with dried lavender buds, ensuring they are easily recognized due to their subtle and sophisticated flavor. You would want to serve them with your tea especially since they are known to efficiently complement each other.
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Savoury Palmiers
When you consider their lightness, flaky nature, and level of flavor, you will understand why they have become a staple for family outings.
To make them, you will need puff pastry rolled with ingredients such as pesto, tapenade, or Parmesan and herbs. After mixing, ensure to bake till it comes golden crisp.
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Mini Phyllo Cups with Various Fillings
If the plan is to make and serve a savory option, then you should consider filling them with spinach and feta, caramelized onion and goat cheese, or chicken salad. However, if you prefer it sweeter, then consider filling them with lemon curd, chocolate mousse, or berry compote.
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Stuffed Endive Boats
Keep in mind that stuffed endive boats will be an exceptional choice especially since the crispness of the endive combines with the creamy fillings to give a delicious and crunchy appetizer.
Making this delicacy means using endive leaves as a base and getting them filled with a vast array of mixtures. Some of the most common options include blue cheese and walnuts, smoked salmon and cream cheese, or apple and celery salad.
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Caramelized Onion Tarts
You would be taking it up a notch by serving this flavorful and elegant, perfect bite-sized treat at your tea party. This will make your menu stand out as well as ensure your guests have a satisfying experience.
You will have to use puff pastry or a tart shell as a base and be required to get them filled with caramelized onions, a sprinkle of balsamic vinegar, and a hint of fresh thyme. Do not forget to bake until golden and serve warm.
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Rosewater Madeleine
Rosewater madeleines gained popularity for being delicate, shell-shaped cakes that will immediately make your table look elegant and sophisticated. You must add a hint of rosewater to the madeleine batter to give it a subtle floral flavor.
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Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
Stuffed grape leaves, or dolmas, are a Mediterranean treat. Aside from giving your tea party the exotic flair, note that it is nutritious and quite flavorful.
Keep in mind that these delicate leaves are filled with a mixture of rice, pine nuts, herbs, and sometimes ground meat. Always make sure to serve them chilled and accompanied by lemon wedges and a yogurt dipping sauce for a refreshing and flavorful bite.
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Mini Tartlets with Goat Cheese and Fig
One thing to note is that these mini tartlets are exceptionally delicious and their unique taste will leave guests wondering. You would want to make use of pre-made tart shells and fill them with a mixture of goat cheese and fig jam.
It is strongly recommended you bake until the cheese is warm and slightly melted, then sprinkle with honey and finish it up with a small sprig of rosemary.
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Crab Cakes
You should make small, bite-sized crab cakes with just fresh crab meat, breadcrumbs, and a good mix of spices. Do not forget to serve them with a tangy remoulade or tartar sauce.
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Pistachio-Crusted Goat Cheese Balls
They are a simple but also elegant appetizer. To make them, you would first have to roll small balls of goat cheese in crushed pistachios and serve them on a platter with toothpicks.
These bite-sized treats will wow your guest with their blend of creamy cheese and crunchy nuts, making them one of the first things to include in your menu list.
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Watermelon and Feta Skewers
To make this refreshing and sweet-savory treat, cut open cubes of juicy watermelon and salty feta cheese, then drizzle with a balsamic glaze and afterward finish up with fresh mint.
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Salmon Mousse on Cucumber Rounds
Known for being quite light yet sophisticated, you have to blend smoked salmon with cream cheese, lemon juice, and dill to bring forth a smooth mousse. Afterward, you pipe the mousse onto thick slices of cucumber and finish it up with a little sprig of dill or a caper.
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Sweet Potato and Chorizo Bites
To make this dish, slice sweet potatoes into rounds and roast them until they become soft. Afterward, top each round with a slice of cooked chorizo and a dollop of crème fraîche.
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Mango and Avocado Salsa with Tortilla Chips
They are known to be vibrant, refreshing, and exceptionally delicious. It more or less requires dicing ripe mango and avocado, then combining with red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of chili for heat. Do not forget to serve with crispy tortilla chips.
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Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites
Aside from being an indulgent treat, its sweet and savory combination makes it a crowd-pleaser. Be sure to use mini waffles as well as top each with a small piece of fried chicken. Afterward, finish it up with maple syrup or a honey-mustard sauce.
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Peach and Prosciutto Crostini
To make them, you have to toast slices of baguette and top with a thin slice of ripe peach and a piece of prosciutto. Be sure to drizzle it with honey and finish it up with fresh basil or arugula to ensure you can serve your guest a sophisticated appetizer.
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Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Pita Chips
It is known to inculcate a vibrant and flavorful dip that will elevate the menu of your tea party. Note that it warrants blending chickpeas, roasted red peppers, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice to come up with a creamy hummus.
Always make sure you serve with crispy pita chips or fresh vegetable sticks to guarantee or make it a healthier and delicious snack.
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Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers
They are also colorful and tasty and will redefine the table at your tea party. Take your time to fill small bell peppers with a combination of quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices. Finish it up with a sprinkle of cheese and bake until the peppers become soft.
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Gingerbread Madeleines
Be sure to combine the traditional madeleine batter with ginger, cinnamon, and cloves to come up with these festive treats. Also, note that they go down excitedly well with a cup of spiced tea or coffee.
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Mini Chicken Caesar Salad Cups
Keep in mind that mini chicken Caesar salad cups will make a fine and enjoyable appetizer. Make sure to only utilize small, crispy lettuce leaves as cups and fill them with a good blend of grilled chicken, Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
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Apricot and Brie Phyllo Bites
To make this treat, you would start by keeping a small piece of brie cheese and a spoonful of apricot preserves in the center of a phyllo pastry square. Carefully wrap the pastry around the filling and bake until golden brown.
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Lemon Curd Tartlets
Its tangy and sweet taste makes it a wonderful addition to your dessert menu. You will need to fill mini tart shells with homemade or store-bought lemon curd before finishing it up with a dollop of whipped cream or a fresh berry.
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Beef Tenderloin Crostini
Carefully slice the baguette thinly and toast until crisp. Afterward, tip each slice with a piece of perfectly cooked beef tenderloin, a dollop of horseradish cream, and a sprinkle of chives.
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Mini Fruit and Cheese Kebabs
These colorful kebabs will turn out to be a fun and enticing addition to your menu. To make them, you will need to cut small pieces of fruit, such as grapes, strawberries, and melon, with cubes of cheese like cheddar or gouda.
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Spicy Shrimp Skewers
It is considered a staple in family gatherings since it tends to add a touch of heat to the room’s ambiance. It takes certain cooking skills to consciously marinate shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and chili flakes. After that, grill or sauté until cooked through and serve on small skewers with a wedge of lime.
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Pumpkin Spice Scones
Pumpkin spice scones for decades have remained a major hit at fall-themed tea parties. Keep in mind that these soft scones are flavored with pumpkin puree and a good mix of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Do not forget to serve them with a cinnamon glaze or a dollop of whipped cream.