Picture yourself sipping a perfectly brewed tea, surrounded by flavourful array of pastries and cakes – that’s a delightful experience we call Afternoon Tea.
At Black Ivy, we believe that the teas aren’t the only one that should be under the spotlight. These treats also deserve to shine and showcase their sweet flavours and artful presentations.
In this blog, we’ll explore the decadent pastries and cakes that elevate afternoon tea to a luxurious occasion. We’ll dive into their ingredients, the little touches that make them irresistible, and why they’re an important part of your afternoon tea.
So, whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or new to the world of afternoon tea, join us as we celebrate these delightful confections that bring a touch of sweetness to your day!
Scone
Scones are a quintessential British classic that should be a must-have at any afternoon tea. Lightly golden on the outside and soft on the inside, this pastry is made with a blend of flour, butter sugar, and milk, which results in a delicious crumbly treat.
Variations and twists
Scones can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. In many traditional afternoon teas, scones are served with a dollop of cream and a generous spoonful of jam. However, for those who like a twist, scones can also come with raisins, currants, or even a hint of lemon zest for added flavour.
Scones indeed hold a special place in the afternoon tea tradition. Their gentle sweetness and tender crumb balance beautifully with the bold flavours of tea, creating a satisfying pairing that delights the palate.
The ritual of spreading cream and jam onto a freshly baked scone brings an element of indulgence to any tea gathering, making it a memorable and essential part of the experience.
Carrot cake
Carrot cake brings a delightful touch of spice and sweetness to afternoon tea. This moist cake is made with grated carrots, which add natural sweetness and keep the cake tender.
Variations and twists
Carrot cake is often accompanied by warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg and finished with a layer of cream frosting. Many variations include chopped walnuts or raisin, while some even add a hint of orange zest for a refreshing twist.
Carrot cake has become a staple of afternoon tea, offering a deliciously earthy and comforting taste that pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea. The gentle spices and creamy frosting contrast wonderfully with the rich flavours of black or herbal teas, creating a satisfying and memorable bite.
Chocolate opera cake
Chocolate opera cake is a luxurious French dessert that offers a blend of flavours and textures to afternoon tea. This dessert is made of delicious layers of almond sponge cake, coffee buttercream, and rich chocolate ganache.
Traditionally, the cake is brushed with coffee syrup to boost the flavour, and a glossy chocolate glaze on top for a refined finish.
Variations and twists
Chocolate opera cake typically includes almond flour, eggs, butter, sugar, coffee, and, of course, high-quality dark chocolate. While the classic recipe remains a favourite, modern variations may include a hint of hazelnut or even a dash of liquor for an extra punch.
Opera Cake brings a satisfying richness that pairs wonderfully with both black tea and herbal blends. Its smooth coffee and chocolate notes provide an elegant contrast to lighter pastries, creating a well-rounded tea experience. This French classic not only adds a bit of glamour to the table but also offers a multi-layered flavour that keeps guests coming back for another slice.
Cupcake
A beloved treat around the world, cupcake has also become a delightful addition to afternoon tea. Small, charming, and irresistibly sweet, this mini cake is usually topped with frosting or icing and sometimes filled with a pleasant surprise like jam or cream.
Flavours and variations
Traditional cupcake flavours include classics like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, each adorned with buttercream or whipped cream frosting. However, these tiny cakes have evolved over time. Many bakeries are now experimenting with unique and inventive twists to surprise the palate.
Think rich chocolate cupcakes with salted caramel, delicate lavender or Earl Grey infusions, or even tropical coconut with lime. What’s more, the variety also extends to its decorating styles – fondants, sprinkles, edible flowers, and intricate piping brings its artistry to the next level!
Cupcakes are a cherished part of afternoon tea for their versatility and aesthetic charm. Their colourful and eye-catching presentation brings a lively touch to the table while their sweetness matches the flavours of the tea.
Tart
Tart is a delicate pastry with a crisp, buttery crust that’s often filled with delicious flavours. The base is typically made from shortcrust pastry, which Cretes a light yet sturdy foundation for the filling.
Flavours and variations
Tarts come in different variations that each bring something special to the afternoon tea table. Traditional fillings include fresh strawberries, bustard or blueberry compote. Some tarts feature rich chocolate ganache or lemon curd for a refreshing citrus twist.
Many modern variations take these flavours further by using exotic fruits like passionfruit and figs for a distinct yet heavenly flavour.
Tarts are an essential part of afternoon tea because they combine elegance with indulgence. Their balanced sweetness and crisp texture create a delightful contrast to the softness of cakes and sponges, while the different fillings provide a variety of taste experiences.
Indulge in the perfect afternoon tea experience
These delightful treats are more than just desserts; they’re the perfect way to complete your afternoon tea experience.
If you’re ready to savour the best of Edinburgh’s pastries and cakes in an inviting, stylish setting, Black Ivy is ready to welcome you. Come experience an unforgettable afternoon of treats, tea, and charm.
Book your table today and make your next tea-time one to remember!
