30 Irresistible Petit Fours and Mini Dessert Recipes for Your Next Afternoon Tea
Looking for the best mini desserts for afternoon tea? Our collection of these 30 irresistible petit fours and bite-sized treats is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your next tea party. From delicate French macarons to decadent chocolate cheesecake bites, these easy-to-make mini dessert recipes will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. If you are hosting a high tea, a bridal shower, or enjoying a lovely cozy afternoon with your friends, these elegant afternoon tea desserts will heighten your experience. Get ready to bake and indulge in the most delightful bite-sized desserts for any occasion!
Petit Fours: How to Make These 30 Adorable Mini Desserts for Afternoon Tea Delight!
If you are looking to add a touch of elegance to your next afternoon tea party, look no further than this collection of 30 delectable petit four and mini dessert recipes. These bite-sized treats are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while also impressing your guests with their beautiful and sophisticated presentation.
What Exactly are Petit Fours?
Petit fours are a type of small, bite-sized dessert that originated in France. The term "petit four" translates to "small oven" in French, which refers to the small ovens that were traditionally used to bake these miniature treats.
Petit fours have a long history of being served alongside afternoon tea. In the 19th century, the tradition of serving tea and small cakes or pastries became popular in England, and it quickly spread to other countries. Petit fours were a perfect addition to this tradition because they are small enough to be enjoyed alongside a cup of tea, and they come in a variety of flavors and designs, making them an elegant and sophisticated treat.
Today, petit fours come in many different forms, such as small cakes, cookies, or candies, and they are often decorated with intricate designs or frosting. They are commonly served at weddings, parties, and other special events, as well as during afternoon tea.
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Considerations for Serving Petit Fours for Tea
When serving petit fours, it is best to present them on a tiered cake stand or platter. This not only looks beautiful but also makes it easy for guests to see and select their preferred treats. Generally, 2-3 petit fours per person is a good starting point, but you can adjust the amount based on your guest list and preferences.
When picking a selection of petit fours for an afternoon tea party, there are a few things to consider.
🍰First, it is important to have a variety of flavors and textures to offer your guests. This can include options like chocolate, fruit, nuts, and cream-filled treats.
🍰Additionally, it is important to consider any dietary restrictions or allergies your guests may have, and to provide some options that cater to those needs.
🍰Finally, you should also think about the overall presentation of your petit fours. Try to choose a selection of treats that not only taste great but also look beautiful on your platter or cake stand. You can add some color and variety by including petit fours with different shapes and decorations, such as delicate frosting or edible flowers. With some careful planning, your petit fours will be a hit at your afternoon tea party!
30 Delightful Petit Fours and Mini Dessert Recipes to Make Your Afternoon Tea a Sweet Success
Get ready to impress your guests with 30 delicious petit four recipes that are perfect for your next afternoon tea party:
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 flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea.
When it comes to pairing tea with lemon fondant fancies, there are a few options to consider. A classic black tea like English Breakfast or Earl Grey can complement the zesty lemon flavor nicely. Alternatively, a floral tea like Jasmine 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 flavor that pairs perfectly with a classic black tea like Earl Grey or Darjeeling. So, whether you're hosting a formal event or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon with friends, these mini tea cakes are sure to impress.
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. Pair them with a refreshing herbal tea like 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. 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 flavorful 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 flavors. To complement the subtle bitterness of the matcha and the tartness of the cherries, consider pairing them with a delicate green tea like Sencha 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 a rich and creamy chocolate. To balance the sweetness of the chocolate and the cream filling, consider pairing these mini eclairs with a robust black tea like 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.
To complement the delicate flavor 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 like 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. Pair these sweet and tangy madeleines with a citrusy tea like lemon verbena or bergamot-infused Earl Grey for a perfectly balanced afternoon tea experience.
If you love madeleines, you may also love this recipe for making these Chocolate Coated Hazelnut Madeleines.
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, and 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 cozy 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. Pair them 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. They 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. It's perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth cravings, and pairs well with rich and robust black teas such as Assam or Darjeeling. The bold flavor 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. 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 Canele 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. To complement their unique flavor profile, pair them with a bold and full-bodied tea like 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 flavor and sweet raspberries. There’s also an option to add a drizzle of lemoncello to make it a tipsy trifle! 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 are perfect for any occasion. 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 like 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 flavor of pistachios, and the lightness of honey meringue. They are best served with a delicate and floral tea such as jasmine tea or a light green tea such as Gyokuro to complement the flavors 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. They can be paired with a wide variety of teas, but a classic Earl Grey or Darjeeling tea would complement the chocolate flavor 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. 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. They pair well with a fragrant and floral tea, such as jasmine tea or rose tea, to complement the fruity and sweet flavors 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. 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. Pair them with a cup of black tea or a fruity tea like cherry or raspberry to complement the flavors.
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.
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. They would 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 cozy flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pecans pair perfectly with a spiced masala chai tea or a rich black tea like Assam. 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. Pair them 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. 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 flavor. 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 flavor. The small size of the petit fours makes them a great choice for a sweet treat that won't weigh you down. 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 flavor combination that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
FAQs About Mini Desserts for Afternoon Tea
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-flavored 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
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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.
Time to Get Baking!
Afternoon tea is a timeless tradition, and mini desserts like petit fours make the perfect sweet treat to accompany it. With these 30 easy petit four recipes, there's something for every occasion—whether you crave the nutty crunch of Nut Goodie Bar Candy, the fruity sweetness of Raspberry and White Chocolate Mini Dessert Cups, or the classic charm of Chocolate Petit Fours. Next time you’re hosting an afternoon tea party, impress your guests by making one of these bite-sized treats and take your tea experience to the next level!
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