30 Best Petit Fours and Mini Desserts for Afternoon Tea
If you adore afternoon tea as much as I do, then you’ll know it simply isn’t complete without a selection of dainty, bite-sized treats. I’ve carefully selected 30 fabulous mini desserts and petit fours that will sit on your tea table like little jewels! They will add colour, elegance, and the right amount of decadence!
Pop the kettle on, dust off your apron, set out your prettiest cake stand, and get ready to indulge in these irresistible mini desserts that will tickle your taste buds and delight your guests.
What Are Petit Fours and Mini Desserts?
Petit fours are elegant, bite-sized French desserts that literally translate as “small oven.” Traditionally, they were baked in the gentle residual heat of brick ovens, resulting in delicate cakes and sweets that could be enjoyed in just a bite.
From France to Afternoon Tea
By the Victorian era, petit fours had travelled from France to England, where they became a favourite addition to afternoon tea. Alongside scones, finger sandwiches, and sponge cakes, these miniature treats added both elegance and variety to the tea table. Their intricate designs, from pastel icing to piped fondant flowers, made them stand out as teeny works of art.
Related post 👉 The history and etiquette of afternoon tea
Modern-Day Mini Desserts
Today, petit fours appear in many different guises being served at weddings, parties, and of course traditional afternoon tea including:
🍰 Small layered sponge cakes with fondant icing
🍰 Chocolate-dipped biscuits
🍰 Fruit jellies or marzipan shapes
🍰 Mini tarts or glazed morsels
Why Petit Fours are Still Popular at Afternoon Tea
Part of the magic of petit fours lies in their variety. A single platter might include almond sponge, zesty lemon drizzle or even a modern flavour twist such as matcha green tea. Guests often pause over the selection, carefully choosing their favourite, and that small, joyful moment is exactly why petit fours remain timeless.
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Tips for Serving Mini Desserts at a Tea Party
Petit fours look their best when arranged on a pretty tiered cake stand or elegant fine china platter, making it easy for guests to choose their favourites. A good guide is 2–3 petit fours per person, though you can always adjust for your party size.
For the perfect selection, keep these tips in mind:
🫖 Offer variety: include chocolate, fruit, nutty, and cream-filled options.
🫖 Cater for everyone: consider dietary needs with gluten-free or vegan petit fours.
🫖 Think presentation: mix shapes, colours, and decorations such as piped icing, edible flowers, or edible glitter.
30 Best Petit Fours and Mini Dessert Recipes
In this collection, I’ve gathered 30 of the very best mini dessert and petit four recipes to inspire your next gathering. Think crisp French macarons, silky chocolate cheesecake bites, citrusy fondant fancies, and so so much more. Each recipe is designed to be easy enough for the home baker, yet impressive enough to grace a high tea, bridal shower, birthday celebration, or a cosy catch-up with your friends.
Get ready to impress your guests with 30 delicious petit four recipes that will make your afternoon tea party unforgettable:
1. Lemon Fondant Fancies
Lemon Fondant Fancies by A Mummy Too
Looking to add some zesty freshness to your petit fours selection? You've got to try this recipe for making Lemon Fondant Fancies. These delicate cakes originated in Britain and have been enjoyed for many years with afternoon tea, thanks to their light, fluffy sponge and tangy lemon flavour that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea.
🍵 Tea pairing: A classic black tea, such as English Breakfast or Earl Grey can complement the zesty lemon flavour wonderfully. Alternatively, a floral tea such as Jasmine green tea or Lavender tea can provide a delicate contrast to the bright citrus notes.
2. Mini Tea Cakes
Mini Tea Cakes by Frolic and Fare
Looking for a petit four recipe that is both elegant and delicious? Look no further than these Mini Tea Cakes topped with vanilla buttercream. These bite-sized treats are the perfect addition to any afternoon tea spread, offering a light, sweet flavour. These mini tea cakes are sure to impress at your next afternoon tea party.
🍵 Tea pairing: The sweet flavour of these pair perfectly with a classic black tea such as Earl Grey or Darjeeling.
3. Chocolate Berry Cups
Chocolate Berry Cups by Cooking with Nana Ling
Indulge your sweet tooth with our delicious recipe for Chocolate Berry Cups. Made with a chocolate base filled with a sweet cream cheese mixture and topped with colorful berries, these petit fours are sure to impress your guests.
🍵 Tea pairing: Pair them with a refreshing herbal tea such as peppermint or chamomile to balance the richness of the chocolate and the sweetness of the filling.
4. Mini Bundt Cakes
Mini Bundt Cakes by Aleka’s Get Together
Up next in our petit fours roundup, we have a delightful recipe for making Mini Bundt Cakes that are light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. A sprinkle of lemon zest adds a refreshing twist to these charming little cakes.
🍵 Tea pairing: To complement the citrus notes, consider pairing them with a delicate white tea like Silver Needle or Pai Mu Tan, or a fruity tea like raspberry or apricot.
5. Matcha Cherry Financiers
Matcha Cherry Financiers by Sift & Simmer
For a unique and flavourful petit four option, try this recipe for Matcha Cherry Financiers. Made with matcha powder, cherries, and almonds, these petite cakes offer a distinct blend of earthy, nutty, and sweet flavours.
🍵 Tea pairing: To complement the subtle bitterness of the matcha and the tartness of the cherries, consider pairing them with a delicate green tea such as Sencha green tea or Dragonwell, or a floral tea such as jasmine or a creamy rose latte.
6. Mini Eclairs
Mini Eclairs by A Mummy Too
For a decadent petit four that is sure to impress your guests, look no further than these Mini Eclairs! Made with light and airy choux pastry and filled with vanilla cream, these petite delights are topped with rich and creamy chocolate.
🍵 Tea pairing: To balance the sweetness of the chocolate and the cream filling, consider pairing these mini eclairs with a robust black tea such as English Breakfast or Assam, or an aromatic spiced tea like chai. Try blending your own masala chai!
7. Foolproof French Macaroons
Foolproof French Macaroons by Partylicious
Indulge in a classic French pastry with this Foolproof French Macarons recipe. These delicate and airy cookies have a long history, originating in France in the 18th century. Their light, crisp exterior and creamy filling make them the perfect petit four for afternoon tea.
🍵 Tea pairing: To complement the delicate flavour of French macarons, you might want to consider serving a light and floral tea such as Darjeeling. Alternatively, try serving with a unique and delicate Purple tea. Other options that pair well with the sweet and creamy filling of macarons include a fruit tea such as raspberry, or peach, or a white tea. Try making iced white tea with raspberries and peaches!
8. Blueberry Lemon Madeleines
Blueberry Lemon Madeleines by Dani’s Cookings
Indulge in the delicate and buttery texture of Blueberry Lemon Madeleines with this recipe. These French treats have been enjoyed for centuries and are believed to have originated in the town of Commercy in the 18th century.
If you love madeleines, you may also love this recipe for making these Chocolate Coated Hazelnut Madeleines.
🍵 Tea pairing: Pair these sweet and tangy madeleines with a citrusy tea such as lemon verbena or bergamot-infused Earl Grey for a perfectly balanced afternoon tea experience.
9. Mini Biscoff Cheesecakes
Mini Biscoff Cheesecakes by Waiting for Blancmange
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these Mini Biscoff Cheesecakes that require no baking at all. These bite-sized treats are perfect for afternoon tea.
🍵 Tea pairing: The creamy Biscoff filling with a hint of caramel pairs well with a bold black tea such as English Breakfast or a spiced chai tea for a cosy and comforting tea time experience. For something more refreshing, try making these iced Biscoff tea lattes!
10. Strawberry Mini Pies with Rose Glaze
Strawberry Mini Pies with Rose Glaze by Brunch & Batter
These Strawberry Mini Pies with Rose Glaze are a delightful addition to any afternoon tea table. With their flaky crust and sweet strawberry filling, they're the perfect bite-sized treat to indulge in.
🍵 Tea pairing: Pair these with a light, floral tea like Earl Grey or jasmine for a truly delightful tea-time experience.
11. Red, White, and Blue Mini Pavlovas
Red, White And Blue Mini Pavlovas by Budget Delicious
Red, White, and Blue Mini Pavlovas are the perfect gluten-free dessert to serve at any garden gathering or summer afternoon tea party. These airy, crispy meringue shells are topped with whipped cream and adorned with fresh strawberries and blueberries, making them a refreshing and patriotic treat.
🍵 Tea pairing: These pair well with a light and refreshing tea, such as a white tea or a fruity herbal tea. Alternatively, serve with pitchers of smooth and delicious cold-brewed iced tea.
12. Nut Goodie Bar Candy
Nut Goodie Bar Candy by Delicious Table
This Nut Goodie Bar Candy is a delicious and indulgent treat made with a combination of chocolate, peanut butter, crunchy peanuts, and butterscotch.
🍵 Tea pairing: These bars pair well with rich and robust black teas such as Assam or Darjeeling. The bold flavour of the tea complements the sweet and nutty taste of the candy.
13. Strawberry Chocolate Petit Fours
Strawberry Chocolate Petit Fours by Sugar Salt Magic
Treat your taste buds with the delicious combination of chocolate and strawberry in this Strawberry Chocolate Petit Fours recipe. These mini cakes are perfect for an indulgent afternoon tea treat.
🍵 Tea pairing: For a balanced pairing, serve them with a light and refreshing tea like jasmine green tea or fresh mint tea to cleanse your palate between each bite. Alternatively, a fruity and floral tea like rosehip or a tart hibiscus tea would also make a great pairing.
14. French Canelé Recipe (Cannelés de Bordeaux)
French Canele Recipe by Partylicious
Indulge in a unique French delicacy with this French Canelé Recipe (cannelés de Bordeaux). These petite pastries have a rich history dating back to the 18th century in Bordeaux, France. The crispy, caramelized exterior and tender, custardy interior make them a perfect petit four for afternoon tea.
🍵 Tea pairing: To complement the unique flavour profile of these fancy cakes, pair them with a bold and full-bodied tea such as Assam or Ceylon black tea, or a rich and earthy tea like Pu-erh.
15. Lemon Raspberry Trifles
Lemon Raspberry Trifles by Christina’s Cucina
Looking for a refreshing dessert for your afternoon tea party? Try these mini Lemon Raspberry Trifles that are bursting with zesty lemon flavour and sweet raspberries. There’s also an option to add a drizzle of limoncello to make it a tipsy trifle!
🍵 Tea pairing: The layers of lemon sponge cake, raspberries, and whipped cream make for a light and indulgent treat that pairs perfectly with a delicately blended fruity white or green tea.
16. Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Bites
Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Bites by The Forked Spoon
These Chocolate Covered Cheesecake Bites are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that is perfect for any occasion.
🍵 Tea pairing: Made with cream cheese, graham cracker crumbs, and dipped in rich chocolate, they are a sweet indulgence that pairs well with a bold black tea such as English Breakfast or Assam.
17. Raspberry Pistachio Tartlets
These Raspberry Pistachio Tartlets are a delightful petit four that combines the sweetness of raspberry jam, the nutty flavour of pistachios, and the lightness of honey meringue.
🍵 Tea pairing: These are best served with a delicate and floral tea such as jasmine tea or a light green tea such as Gyokuro, to complement the flavours of the tartlets.
18. Mini Chocolate Chip Bundt Cakes
Mini Chocolate Chip Bundt Cakes by Cook with Kushi
These Mini Chocolate Chip Bundt Cakes are a perfect treat for afternoon tea. They are moist, fluffy, and full of chocolate chips.
🍵 Tea pairing: These mini Bundt cakes can be paired with a wide variety of teas, but a classic Earl Grey or Darjeeling tea would complement the chocolate flavour nicely.
19. Blueberry Muffin Petit Fours
Blueberry Muffin Petit Fours by Emily Laurae
These Blueberry Muffin Petit Fours are a delightful twist on classic blueberry muffins, with a lemony zest and creamy frosting. The oat crumble adds a nice crunchy texture to these bite-sized treats, making them perfect for afternoon tea.
🍵 Tea pairing: To pair with these petit fours, a light and fragrant tea green tea or herbal tea blend would complement the citrusy notes nicely.
20. Raspberry and White Chocolate Mini Dessert Cups
Raspberry and White Chocolate Mini Dessert Cups by Easy Homemade Recipes
These Raspberry and White Chocolate Mini Dessert Cups are a perfect petit four for afternoon tea, made with a creamy white chocolate ganache and topped with tangy raspberries.
🍵 Tea pairing: These pair well with a fragrant and floral tea, such as jasmine tea or rose tea, to complement the fruity and sweet flavours of the dessert.
21. Mini Oreo Cheesecakes
Mini Oreo Cheesecakes by Organically Addison
These Mini Oreo Cheesecakes are made with a chocolate cookie crust and a creamy Oreo-filled cheesecake filling, topped with whipped cream and mini Oreos. They make perfect bite-sized treats for afternoon tea.
🍵 Tea pairing: A rich and bold black tea, or a darker Oolong tea would pair well with the chocolate and Oreo flavors.
22. Cherry Chocolate Mini Cakes
Cherry Chocolate Mini Cakes by Emily Laurae
These Cherry Chocolate Mini Cakes are a bite-sized version of the classic black forest gateau! Made with rich chocolate cake, served with a cream cheese frosting and a cherry on top, they are the perfect treat for an afternoon tea party.
🍵 Tea pairing: Pair these festive mini fours with a cup of black tea or a fruity tea like cherry or raspberry to complement the flavours.
23. Easy Jam Tarts
Jam Tart Recipe: Easy Fruit Tea Tarts by What a Girl Eats
Easy Jam Tarts are a simple but classic treat for afternoon tea. They have a rich history in British baking, and were often made by housewives during wartime rationing due to their simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Jam tarts have remained a beloved treat and work well for afternoon tea due to their bite-size portions and the endless variety of jams that can be used to fill them.
🍵 Tea pairing: Serve these traditional mini desserts with a traditional tea such as English breakfast or Assam.
24. Mini Peanut Butter Cups
Mini Peanut Butter Cups by Inspired by Charm
These Mini Peanut Butter Cups are a delicious twist on the classic peanut butter and chocolate combination, with a rich chocolate pie crust and creamy peanut butter filling.
🍵 Tea pairing: These pair perfectly with a bold black tea, such as English Breakfast, Assam, or a delightfully complex tea such as Darjeeling, to balance out the sweetness.
25. Pecan Pie Cream Puffs
Pecan Pie Cream Puffs by Live to Sweet
Pecan Pie Cream Puffs are a delicious and decadent dessert perfect for fall afternoon tea. The warm and cosy flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pecans pair perfectly with a spiced masala chai tea or a rich black tea like Assam.
🍵 Tea pairing: Try serving these fall-time cream puffs with a pumpkin spice tea latte!
26. Vegan Mini Lemon Loaves
Vegan Mini lemon Loaves by Baked by Clo
These Vegan Mini Lemon Loaves are a delightful bite-sized version of the classic British lemon drizzle cake. Made with plant-based ingredients and bursting with lemony goodness, these mini cakes are perfect for an afternoon tea party.
🍵 Tea pairing: Pair these zesty mini desserts with a hot cup of Earl Grey or other citrusy blend, such as a Lady Grey tea, for a refreshing and comforting experience.
27. Date Snickers
Date Snickers by Flavors Treat
This recipe for Date Snickers is a healthier twist on the classic candy bar, made with just dates, peanut butter, chocolate, and peanuts.
🍵 Tea pairing: These bite-sized treats are perfect for afternoon tea, and can be served alongside a warm cup of black tea or a delicious brown sugar milk tea, served hot.
28. Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes
Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes by Love From the Oven
These Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes are a delicious twist on the classic dessert, with a tropical flavor from the addition of crushed pineapple. They make perfect petit fours for afternoon tea, and pair well with oolong teas, which have a fruity and floral aroma that complements the pineapple flavour.
🍵 Tea pairing: A blended green tea with fruity notes can also be a great choice to enhance the tropical taste of these cupcakes.
29. Chocolate Petit Fours
Chocolate Petit Fours by Christina’s Cucina
Chocolate Petit Fours are the perfect addition to any afternoon tea party, with their rich and indulgent flavour. The small size of the petit fours makes them a great choice for a sweet treat that won't weigh you down.
🍵 Tea pairing: A classic black tea, such as English breakfast or Darjeeling, pairs well with the richness of the chocolate petit fours.
30. Chocolate Orange Slices
Chocolate Orange Slices by The Littlest Crumb
This recipe for Chocolate Orange Slices is a delightful treat that is perfect for afternoon tea. The tangy orange slices are candied and then dipped in rich chocolate, making for a sweet and tangy flavour combination that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
🍵 Tea pairing: Serve these orange slices with a pot of world-famous Earl grey tea!
FAQs About Afternoon Tea Mini Desserts
1. What are the best mini desserts to serve at an afternoon tea party?
For a classic afternoon tea experience, popular bite-sized desserts include petit fours, French macarons, mini Victoria sponges, madeleines, fruit tarts, and chocolate truffles. These beautiful, elegant treats pair perfectly with different tea varieties.
2. How do I choose desserts that complement different teas?
Pairing mini desserts with tea enhances the experience. Try:
Citrus or berry-flavoured treats (such as lemon loaves, raspberry tartlets) with Earl Grey
Nutty or caramel desserts (such as pecan pie cream puffs, date Snickers) with Oolong or Darjeeling
Chocolate-based treats (such as chocolate petit fours, chocolate-dipped oranges) with black teas like Assam or English Breakfast
Related 👉 Perfect tea pairings for afternoon tea
3. Can I make afternoon tea desserts ahead of time?
Yes! Many mini desserts can be made in advance:
Petit fours & macarons: You can make these 1-2 days ahead, stored in an airtight container - depending on the specific recipe.
Mini cheesecakes & tarts: Up to 2 days ahead, and keep refrigerated - depending on the specific recipe.
Madeleines & scones: These taste best from fresh, but can be made the night before, depending on the specific recipe.
4. What are the easiest mini desserts for beginners?
If you're new to afternoon tea baking, start with:
No-bake options: Chocolate-covered strawberries, peanut butter cups, or date Snickers
Easy bakes: Lemon drizzle mini loaves, jam tarts, or mini bundt cakes
Classic favorites: Victoria sponge bites, shortbread cookies, or mini scones
5. How do I elegantly present mini desserts for afternoon tea?
Presentation is key to a proper tea experience. Arrange bite-sized desserts on tiered cake stands with delicate garnishes such as pretty edible flowers, colorful fresh fruit, powdered sugar, or even sparkly gold leaf. Serve with fine china, linen napkins, and tea pairings for an elegant touch.
6. Are there any refined sugar-free or vegan mini desserts for afternoon tea?
Yes! Try these healthier mini treats:
Vegan: Lemon drizzle mini loaves, coconut cream fruit tarts, chocolate-dipped oranges
Sugar-free: Almond flour shortbread, stevia-sweetened petit fours, date-based truffles
7. What traditional British mini desserts are best for afternoon tea?
Classic British afternoon tea desserts include:
Mini Victoria sponge cakes – A staple with jam & cream
Jam tarts – Buttery pastry with fruit preserves
Mini Battenberg cakes – Iconic pink & yellow checkerboard pattern
Scones with clotted cream & jam – A must-have!
8. How many mini desserts should I serve per person at an afternoon tea?
A traditional afternoon tea typically includes 3-4 sweet treats per guest, along with finger sandwiches and scones. Plan for a mix of flavors and textures to create a balanced menu.
The Timeless Charm of Petit Fours at Afternoon Tea
Petit fours and mini desserts bring charm, flavour, and elegance to any afternoon tea party. Whether you’re hosting a traditional high tea, a bridal shower, or a simple get-together with friends and family, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress everyone.
Thank you for reading!
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