Delicious Pastry Recipes to Elevate Your Tea Time

naessoutherlysweet
Oct 7
5 min read

Tea time is a cherished tradition that brings people together. It is a moment to pause, relax, and enjoy delightful treats. What better way to enhance this experience than with delicious pastries? In this post, we will explore a variety of pastry recipes that are perfect for your next tea gathering. From flaky scones to sweet tarts, these recipes will surely impress your guests and elevate your tea time.

The Charm of Tea Time

Tea time is more than just a meal; it is an experience. It is a time to unwind and connect with friends or family. The right pastries can make this experience even more special. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked goods filling the air as you sip your favorite tea.

Pastries are versatile and can cater to different tastes. Whether you prefer something sweet or savory, there is a pastry for everyone. Let’s dive into some delightful recipes that will make your tea time unforgettable.

Classic Scones

Scones are a staple of tea time. They are easy to make and can be served with clotted cream and jam. Here’s a simple recipe for classic scones.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup milk
1 large egg
Optional: dried fruits or chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. If you want to add dried fruits or chocolate chips, fold them in now.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently. Pat it into a circle about 1 inch thick.
Cut into wedges or use a round cutter to make individual scones.
Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve warm with clotted cream and jam.

These scones are light, fluffy, and perfect for pairing with your favorite tea.

Flaky Puff Pastry Twists

Puff pastry twists are a fun and elegant addition to your tea time. They are crispy, flaky, and can be filled with various ingredients. Here’s how to make them.

Ingredients

1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1/4 cup pesto or tomato sauce
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface.
Cut the pastry into strips, about 1 inch wide.
Spread a thin layer of pesto or tomato sauce on each strip.
Sprinkle cheese on top of the sauce.
Twist each strip and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and puffed.

These twists are perfect for dipping and will add a savory touch to your tea time.

Sweet Fruit Tarts

Fruit tarts are a beautiful and delicious way to end your tea time. They are colorful, fresh, and can be made with seasonal fruits. Here’s a simple recipe for sweet fruit tarts.

Ingredients

1 pre-made tart shell
1 cup pastry cream (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups mixed fresh fruits (strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, etc.)
1/4 cup apricot jam (for glaze)

Instructions

If using a pre-made tart shell, bake according to package instructions and let it cool.
Fill the cooled tart shell with pastry cream.
Arrange the fresh fruits on top of the cream in a decorative pattern.
Heat the apricot jam in a small saucepan until melted.
Brush the melted jam over the fruits to give them a nice glaze.
Chill the tart in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

This sweet fruit tart is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

Mini Quiches

For those who prefer savory options, mini quiches are a fantastic choice. They are easy to make and can be filled with various ingredients. Here’s a basic recipe.

Ingredients

1 package of pre-made pastry dough
4 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 cup diced vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, onions)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or feta)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the pastry dough and cut it into circles to fit into a muffin tin.
Press the dough into the muffin tin cups.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the diced vegetables and cheese to the egg mixture.
Pour the mixture into the pastry cups, filling them about 3/4 full.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the egg is set and the tops are golden.

These mini quiches are perfect for a savory bite during tea time.

Chocolate Eclairs

Chocolate eclairs are a classic French pastry that adds a touch of elegance to any tea gathering. They are filled with cream and topped with chocolate glaze. Here’s how to make them.

Ingredients

1 cup water
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup chocolate chips (for glaze)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a saucepan, bring water and butter to a boil.
Add the flour all at once and stir until the mixture forms a ball.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Beat in the eggs one at a time until smooth.
Pipe the dough onto a baking sheet in long strips.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
Let them cool, then fill with whipped cream mixed with powdered sugar.
Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the filled eclairs.

These chocolate eclairs are sure to impress your guests.

Savory Cheese Straws

Cheese straws are a delightful snack that pairs perfectly with tea. They are crispy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. Here’s a quick recipe.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or parmesan)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix the flour, cheese, butter, cayenne pepper, and salt until combined.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut into strips and place on a baking sheet.
Brush with the beaten egg.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

These cheese straws are a perfect savory treat for your tea time.

The Perfect Pairing

When it comes to tea time, pairing your pastries with the right tea can enhance the experience. Here are some suggestions:

Scones: Pair with Earl Grey or English Breakfast tea for a classic combination.
Puff Pastry Twists: Enjoy with a light herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint.
Fruit Tarts: A fruity tea, like peach or berry, complements the sweetness of the tarts.
Mini Quiches: Pair with a robust black tea or a savory green tea.
Chocolate Eclairs: A rich chai tea can balance the sweetness of the eclairs.
Cheese Straws: Enjoy with a refreshing iced tea or a light white tea.

Choosing the right tea can elevate your pastries and create a harmonious experience.

A Sweet Ending

Tea time is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy delicious pastries and connect with loved ones. The recipes shared in this post are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment and add your personal touch.

Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet moment alone, these pastries will surely bring joy to your tea time. So, gather your ingredients, brew your favorite tea, and indulge in these delightful treats.

Happy baking and enjoy your tea time!