Festive afternoon tea

What it is

A festive twist on afternoon tea for friends, family or an older relative’s celebration. Tiered cake stands piled with seasonal sandwiches, scones and sweets, served with pots of tea and a glass of fizz.

Plan ahead

• Two weeks before: borrow or buy tiered stands and a pretty tea set.
• The day before: bake scones, mini yule logs and gingerbread; make fillings.
• On the day: make sandwiches no more than 2 hours ahead and cover them with a damp tea towel.

The menu

Savoury

• Turkey, stuffing and cranberry finger sandwiches
• Smoked salmon and cream cheese on rye
• Brie and grape chutney
• Mini quiche with ham and leek

Scones

• Cranberry and orange scones with clotted cream and jam

Sweet

• Mini yule logs
• Mince pies with brandy butter
• Iced gingerbread stars

Drinks

A Christmas tea blend, Earl Grey, mulled apple juice and a glass of prosecco.

Tips

• Allow per person: 4-5 sandwich fingers, 1-2 scones, 3 sweet bites.
• Lay the table the night before.