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How to do a High Tea at Home
By: admin On: 26 March 2024
High Tea in Style. A high tea party can be a lot of fun. its agreat way for ladies to enjoy company and chat.
Have you ever wanted to host a high tea at home but aren't quite sure how to go about it? Well, we've got you covered with our top tips for throwing a great high tea party. From all the essentials you need to what time is considered appropriate for high tea in Australia, we have all the information you need to throw a successful high tea party that your guests will love. So grab a cup of tea and let's get started!
What is High Tea?
High tea is an elegant afternoon tea party tradition that dates back to 19th century Britain. Traditionally served between 3 pm and 5 pm, it usually consists of a variety of tea sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, pastries, cakes, biscuits, and of course, a pot of hot tea. The food is served on tiered cake stands and guests are seated around a table. Nowadays, high tea is enjoyed all over the world, and guests are often encouraged to dress up in their dazzling best.
What Do You Need for a High Tea Party?
To host a high tea party, you'll need the following equipment:
- Tea Set: A traditional tea set would typically include a teapot, milk jug, sugar bowl, and a set of cups and saucers. It may also include small plates. Choose something elegant that fits the theme of your party.
- Cake Stands: You'll need tiered cake stands to display your sandwiches, scones, and pastries. These are essential for creating that quintessential high tea look.
- Cutlery and Serving Utensils: Remember to have enough teaspoons for stirring tea and forks for eating the pastries. Serving tongs for the sandwiches and a cake server for the pastries can be very useful.
- Tablecloth and Napkins: A beautiful tablecloth can instantly elevate the look of your table. Cloth napkins are more traditional, but good-quality paper napkins can work too.
- Tea Strainer (Optional): If you're serving loose-leaf tea, a tea strainer will come in handy.
- Decorations (Optional): You could consider adding some flowers or other decorations to your table to create a festive atmosphere.
Remember, the key to a successful high tea is to create an ambience of elegance and relaxation, so choose your equipment keeping this in mind.
What Time is High Tea in Australia?
In Australia, high tea time is between 2 pm and 4 pm. When you're hosting a high tea party at home, you can opt for a time that works best for you and your guests.
What is Served at High Tea?
At a high tea party, a variety of light foods and snacks are typically served along with tea. Although there are no set rules as to what to eat and when (or in what order) you will want to serve a selection of savoury and sweet options. Here are some suggestions:
Finger Sandwiches: These can consist of any number of interesting fillings but cucumber and cream cheese, smoked salmon, or egg and cress are all traditional favourites.
Savoury Quiches and Pastries: Savoury pastries such as mini quiches, sausage rolls, or cheese straws, are a great savoury option to balance out the sweet offerings.
Scones with Jam and Clotted Cream: A classic combination that's always a hit at high tea.
Assortment of Pastries: This can include croissants, Danish pastries, or sweet tarts.
Cakes and Biscuits: Choices can range from Victoria sponge cake to shortbread cookies.
Tea: Offering a selection of teas is key. Consider Earl Grey, English Breakfast, or Darjeeling.
Cheese and Crackers: A platter of assorted cheeses and gourmet crackers can be a great addition.
Remember, the choice of what to serve can be tailored to the preferences and dietary requirements of your guests. If you're feeling fancy, you could also add champagne or cocktails to the mix.
With these essentials, a few classic food options, and a stunning tablescape, you'll be hosting a high tea party fit for a queen in no time. Remember to have fun with it and make the event your own by adding personal touches.
Our selection of handmade Australian biscuits is ideal for all your high tea parties at home.