There's nothing quite like gathering friends for a cozy afternoon at home. Elevate your usual get-together beyond drinks with a delightful high tea—a timeless tradition rooted in 19th-century British culture, where the upper class enjoyed tea, sandwiches, and park strolls in the mid-afternoon. Today, it's all about relaxed elegance. As experienced hosts know, the key is simple, crowd-pleasing treats and thoughtful presentation. Draw inspiration from these curated ideas to create your own memorable high tea.
High tea essentials include sweet indulgences like cookies, cupcakes, cakes, scones, and chocolates, paired with petite sandwiches. Complement with a pot of fine tea, or add a festive touch with champagne or sparkling wine. No need to spend hours baking—stock up affordably from trusted spots like Hema bakeries or online. Here are our top picks:
Sweet Treats
Small Pastries
8 pieces for €6.50 at Hema
Macarons
12 pieces for €5 at Hema
Scones
Serve fresh scones plain or with clotted cream and fruit jams for a classic touch.
Whipped Cream Truffles
200g for €3.50 at Hema
Whipped Cream Puffs
11 pieces for €2.50 at Hema
Savory Bites
Petite sandwiches are a must. Use casino bread, top generously, and quarter for bite-sized elegance. Or try mini rolls or wraps. Popular fillings include:
Salmon with herbs or cream cheese, cucumber, and arugula
Cheese, ham, and lettuce
Mozzarella, prosciutto, and basil
York ham, lamb's lettuce, and mustard
Smoked beef, avocado, and arugula
Chicken fillet, cucumber, and crispy bacon
Salami, pickle, and bell pepper
Presentation elevates everything. Choose a vibrant tablecloth, a tiered etagère for tiers of treats, and patterned napkins. Finish with a fresh bouquet of flowers for that authentic, inviting vibe.
