“Discover the Art of Teatime: 20 Delightful Treats to Elevate Your Tea Experience”
In this article “The Art of Teatime: Delightful Treats to Accompany Tea”, We will introduce you to 20 delicious treats that are traditionally served during tea time around the world. So come along with me as I take you on a gastronomic adventure that will not only excite your taste buds but also give you a glimpse into the many different cultures that drink tea around the world.
The ritual of drinking tea, which is highly esteemed in a lot of different cultures, is a wonderful way to take a break from the hectic pace of our everyday lives. Whether you’re enjoying a traditional English breakfast, a calming camomile infusion, or a fragrant cup of jasmine tea, the experience is improved when delectable nibbles are included.
Want to try something new in the kitchen besides teatime treats? Our article on Famous DIY Foods will help you get started with cooking at home. Learn how fun it is to make famous dishes in your own kitchen, from savory street foods to sweet treats.
20 Must-Try Delightful Treats to Accompany Tea Around the World
Tea time is a lovely break from the busyness of our daily lives and a treasured tradition in many cultures. It doesn’t matter if you’re drinking a traditional English breakfast, a soothing camomile infusion, or a fragrant cup of jasmine tea—the experience is better with tasty snacks. This article will talk about 20 delicious teatime treats from around the world. Each one has its own flavour and cultural experience to offer.
1. Scones with Clotted Cream and Jam
Let’s start our journey in England, a country famous for its traditional scones, which are delightful treats to accompany tea. In the afternoon, these scones are typically served with clotted cream and strawberry jam. When buttery, flaky scones are paired with something sweet and creamy like jam or cream cheese, it’s impossible to overstate how delicious they are.
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key Aspects: Scones with Clotted Cream and Jam
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | England |
| Main Ingredients: | Scones, Clotted Cream, Strawberry Jam |
| Texture: | Scones: Flaky and buttery, Clotted Cream: Thick and creamy, Jam: Sweet and fruity |
| Flavour Profile: | Scones: Mildly sweet, Clotted Cream: Rich and slightly tangy, Jam: Sweet and fruity |
| Serving Style: | Typically served as a pairing. |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Classic black teas like Earl Grey or Darjeeling, but versatile for various teas. |
| Cultural Significance: | A traditional tea-time delicacy in England, often served during afternoon tea or cream tea, |
| Customization and Variations: | Scones can have variations like fruit scones (with raisins or currants) or cheese scones and different jams. |
2. French Macarons
Macarons come in a rainbow of colours, and no trip to France would be complete without indulging in at least one. A cup of Earl Grey or Darjeeling tea goes wonderfully with these delicate almond meringue cookies that are filled with a variety of flavorful fillings.
key Aspects: French Macarons
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | France |
| Main Ingredients: | Almond flour, egg whites, sugar |
| Texture: | Crispy exterior, soft and chewy interior |
| Flavor Profile: | Various flavors, from fruity to nutty |
| Serving Style: | Paired or sandwiched with flavored ganache or buttercream filling |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Earl Grey with citrus macarons Jasmine tea with floral macarons Matcha with green tea macarons |
| Cultural Significance: | Iconic French pastry, often associated with luxury and elegance |
| Customization & Variations: | Endless possibilities for colors and flavors, ranging from classics like chocolate and vanilla to unique creations like lavender and passion fruit |
3. Chinese Dim Sum
A variety of small bites called dim sum are traditionally served during tea time in China. These savoury treats, such as dumplings, buns, and spring rolls, are perfect for passing around the table while enjoying a cup of oolong tea because of their bite-sized portions.
key Aspects: Chinese Dim Sum
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | China |
| Main Ingredients: | Various, including dumpling wrappers, meats, seafood, and vegetables. |
| Texture: | Varies from soft and tender (e.g., dumplings) to crispy (e.g., spring rolls). |
| Flavor Profile: | Savory, with a mix of umami, sweet, and spicy flavors. |
| Serving Style: | Bite-sized portions, typically served in bamboo steamers or on small plates. |
| Tea Pairing: | Oolong, Jasmine, or Green tea complements the savory flavors of dim sum. |
| Cultural Significance: | Integral to Chinese culture, often enjoyed with family and friends. Symbolizes togetherness and sharing. |
| Customization & Variations: | Dim sum offers a wide range of choices, including dumplings, buns, and rolls, with diverse fillings and flavors. Customization is common. |
4. Indian Samosas
In India, samosas are a popular snack or street food to eat with tea because of their spicy filling and crisp exterior. An explosion of flavour awaits those who try these triangular pastries stuffed with spiced potatoes and peas and wash them down with masala chai.
key Aspects: Indian Samosas
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | India |
| Main Ingredients: | Potatoes, peas, spices, and pastry dough |
| Texture: | Crispy on the outside, soft and savory inside |
| Flavor Profile: | Spicy, aromatic, with a hint of earthiness |
| Serving Style: | Typically triangular pastries, fried or baked |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Masala chai, black tea, or herbal chai tea |
| Cultural Significance: | Iconic Indian snack enjoyed for centuries |
| Customization and Variations: | Variations include meat, lentil, and cheese fillings; regional spice variations; baked or fried options; different pastry types |
5. Japanese Matcha Sweets
Mochi, dorayaki (red bean pancakes), and matcha-flavored biscuits are some of the matcha-flavored sweets that are commonly served alongside matcha in Japan, where the consumption of matcha tea is a national holiday.
key Aspects: Japanese Matcha Sweets
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | Japan |
| Main Ingredients: | Matcha (green tea powder), rice, red bean paste |
| Texture: | Varies from soft and chewy (mochi) to crispy (biscuits) |
| Flavor Profile: | Earthy, slightly bitter, with sweet undertones |
| Serving Style: | Various shapes and sizes, often bite-sized |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Matcha tea, sencha, genmaicha |
| Cultural Significance: | Integral to Japanese tea ceremonies and celebrations |
| Customization/Variations: | Mochi, dorayaki, matcha-flavored biscuits, matcha lattes, ice cream, chocolates |
6. Turkish Delight
Turkish delight, a sweet treat that is both sweet and chewy, goes exceptionally well with the robust black tea that is traditionally served in Turkey. A treat for the senses is provided by the juxtaposition of flavours that are slightly sweet and slightly bitter.
key Aspects: Turkish Delight
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | Turkey |
| Main Ingredients: | Sugar, water, starch, and flavorings. |
| Texture: | Soft and chewy, often dusted with powdered sugar or coconut flakes. |
| Flavor Profile: | Sweet and fragrant, with floral or fruity notes. |
| Serving Style: | Typically cut into small cubes and dusted with powdered sugar. |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Turkish black tea (Çay) or herbal teas. |
| Cultural Significance: | A beloved treat in Turkish culture, often served to guests and during festive occasions. |
| Customization and Variations: | Varieties include different flavors such as rose, lemon, or pomegranate. |
7. Italian Biscotti
These crunchy cookies have been baked twice, making them ideal for dunking in your prefered brew of tea. They come in a variety of flavours, such as chocolate and cranberry, in addition to almond and anise, which makes them a flexible option.
key Aspects: Italian Biscotti
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | Italy |
| Main Ingredients: | Flour, sugar, eggs, almonds (often), anise, etc. |
| Texture: | Crispy and crunchy |
| Flavor Profile: | Sweet, with variations like almond, anise, etc. |
| Serving Style: | Typically served as a biscuit or cookie |
| Tea Pairing: | Pairs well with black tea, especially espresso |
| Cultural Significance: | Iconic Italian biscuit, often dipped in coffee |
| Customization/Variations: | Variations include different nuts, flavors, and shapes |
8. Moroccan Mint Tea with Pastries
Moroccans typically drink mint tea with a variety of baked goods, such as baklava and ma’amoul cookies. The combination of mint, which is cooling, and pastries, which are sweet, is a true pleasure.
key Aspects: Moroccan Mint Tea with Pastries
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | Morocco |
| Main Ingredients: | Green tea, fresh mint leaves, sugar |
| Texture: | Smooth tea, fragrant mint leaves, flaky pastries |
| Flavor Profile: | Refreshing, minty, mildly sweet |
| Serving Style: | Served hot in small glasses, pastries on the side |
| Tea Pairing: | Often enjoyed with Moroccan pastries (baklava) |
| Cultural Significance: | An integral part of Moroccan culture and hospitality |
| Customization and Variations: | Sugar level can be adjusted, sometimes orange blossom water is added for extra flavor. Pastries can vary in type and sweetness. |
9. Spanish Churros
A well-liked snack in Spain is churros that have been dipped in hot chocolate. The combination of churros’ chewy texture and chocolate’s smooth, velvety quality is a match made in heaven.
key Aspects: Spanish Churros
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | Spain |
| Main Ingredients: | Flour, water, salt, and oil for frying |
| Texture: | Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside |
| Flavor Profile: | Sweet and doughy with hints of cinnamon and sugar |
| Serving Style: | Typically served as elongated sticks, often dusted with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Best paired with Spanish hot chocolate or strong black coffee |
| Cultural Significance: | Iconic Spanish street food and a beloved snack or breakfast item |
| Customization and Variations: | Variations include filled churros with chocolate or caramel, or churros rolled in different coatings like coconut or nuts |
10. Russian Blini
In Russia, a sophisticated treat that can be enjoyed during tea time is a stack of miniature pancakes topped with sour cream and caviar. The toppings, which range from savoury to creamy, provide contrast to the subtle sweetness of the blini.
key Aspects: Russian Blini
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | Russia |
| Main Ingredients: | Buckwheat or wheat flour, eggs, milk |
| Texture: | Thin pancakes with a slight crispiness |
| Flavor Profile: | Mild, slightly nutty |
| Serving Style: | Rolled or folded with various toppings |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Russian black tea, herbal teas |
| Cultural Significance: | Traditional Russian comfort food. |
| Customization and Variations: | Can be filled with sweet or savory toppings. |
11. Thai Mango Sticky Rice
This traditional Thai dessert is made with sweet, sticky rice, fresh mango slices, and coconut cream that is drizzled on top. It’s a delightful taste of the tropics that goes wonderfully with fragrant Thai tea.
key Aspects: Thai Mango Sticky Rice
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | Thailand |
| Main Ingredients: | Sticky rice, fresh mango, coconut milk |
| Texture: | Soft, sticky rice; juicy mango; creamy coconut milk |
| Flavor Profile: | Sweet, tropical, and slightly creamy |
| Serving Style: | Served in a dish or as a wrapped dessert |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Jasmine tea, Thai tea, or fruity herbal teas |
| Cultural Significance: | Traditional Thai dessert, often served on special occasions and festivals |
| Customization and Variations: | Variations include using different types of mangoes, adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds. |
12. Greek Baklava
This delicious dessert from the Mediterranean region is made by stacking layers of flaky phyllo dough, honey, and chopped nuts. A harmonious combination of flavours can be achieved by consuming a small piece along with a cup of Greek mountain tea.
key Aspects: Greek Baklava
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | Greece |
| Main Ingredients: | Phyllo dough, honey, chopped nuts (usually walnuts or pistachios) |
| Texture: | Crispy layers of phyllo, tender nuts, and sticky honey syrup |
| Flavor Profile: | Sweet, nutty, and honeyed |
| Serving Style: | Cut into diamond or square-shaped pieces, often served as a dessert |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Greek mountain tea or a strong black tea like Greek coffee |
| Cultural Significance: | A beloved dessert in Greek cuisine, often served on special occasions and holidays |
| Customization and Variations: | Variations include using different nuts, adding spices like cinnamon, or drizzling with flavored syrups. Some regions may use rose or orange blossom water in the syrup. |
13. South African Rooibos and Rusks
Rusks are bread biscuits that are baked twice, making them ideal for dipping into a piping hot cup of rooibos tea. Rooibos, which is native to South Africa, has a flavour that is both sweet and nutty.
key Aspects: South African Rooibos and Rusks
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | South Africa |
| Main Ingredients: | Rooibos tea leaves, rusks (twice-baked bread biscuits) |
| Texture: | Rusks are dry and crunchy; Rooibos tea is smooth and soothing |
| Flavor Profile: | mild, earthy, and slightly sweet flavor |
| Serving Style: | Rusks are often dunked in Rooibos tea to soften them before eating |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Rooibos tea pairs well with rusks, as they complement each other’s flavors |
| Cultural Significance: | Rooibos tea is deeply rooted in South African culture and is enjoyed throughout the day. |
| Customization and Variations: | Added milk, sugar, or honey, various flavors and ingredients to suit personal preferences |
14. Mexican Tamales
A traditional Mexican sweet, tamales are typically prepared by filling masa dough with a variety of ingredients. For a one-of-a-kind twist on traditional afternoon tea, serve them with Mexican hot chocolate or hibiscus tea.
key Aspects: Mexican Tamales
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | Mexico |
| Main Ingredients: | Masa dough, various fillings , wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves. |
| Texture: | Soft, doughy exterior with a tender, flavorful filling. |
| Flavor Profile: | Rich and savory, with a blend of spices and ingredients in the filling. |
| Serving Style: | Typically served hot, often with salsa or a side of Mexican crema. |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Pair with Mexican hot chocolate for a sweet and spicy contrast. |
| Cultural Significance: | Tamales are an integral part of Mexican cuisine. |
| Customization and Variations: | Tamales come in numerous regional variations, featuring different fillings. |
15. Swedish Cinnamon Buns
The Swedish word for cinnamon buns is “kanelbullar,” and they make a delicious pastry. When accompanied by a cup of Swedish tea, the cosy and reassuring scent of cinnamon and cardamom makes for an irresistible combination.
key Aspects: Swedish Cinnamon Buns
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | Sweden |
| Main Ingredients: | Flour, sugar, butter, cinnamon |
| Texture: | Soft, fluffy, and slightly chewy |
| Flavor Profile: | Sweet with a warm cinnamon spice |
| Serving Style: | Individually as a pastry or with coffee/tea |
| Tea Pairing: | Swedish tea, black tea, herbal tea |
| Cultural Significance: | Integral part of Swedish culture, often enjoyed during fika (coffee break) |
| Customization and Variations: | Various shapes (knots, rolls), added cardamom or raisins, icing or pearl sugar topping |
16. Korean Patbingsu (Korea)
This shaved ice dessert from Korea is a wonderful complement to the traditional green tea that is served in Korea. It is topped with sweet red beans, fruits, and condensed milk.
key Aspects: Korean Patbingsu
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | South Korea |
| Main Ingredients: | Shaved ice, sweetened red beans, fruits, nuts |
| Texture: | Fluffy, snow-like ice with various toppings |
| Flavor Profile: | Sweet, creamy, fruity, and nutty |
| Serving Style: | Served in a bowl, often with condensed milk |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Green tea, especially traditional Korean green tea (Nokcha) |
| Cultural Significance: | Popular Korean dessert, enjoyed year-round |
| Customization and Variations: | Numerous variations with different toppings and syrups |
17. Austrian Sachertorte
Many people love the Austrian dessert Sachertorte, which has a layer of apricot jam and a rich chocolate flavour. It is topped with a shiny chocolate glaze. It is usually served sliced into pieces with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side. For a tasty treat from Austria, try this with Earl Grey, Darjeeling, or herbal fruit teas.
key Aspects: Austrian Sachertorte
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | Austria |
| Main Ingredients: | Chocolate cake, apricot jam, chocolate glaze |
| Texture: | Moist and dense cake with smooth glaze |
| Flavor Profile: | Rich chocolate, hints of apricot |
| Serving Style: | Sliced into portions, often with whipped cream |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Earl Grey, Darjeeling, or herbal fruit teas |
| Cultural Significance: | Iconic Austrian dessert, served in cafes |
| Customization/Variations: | Variations with different chocolate types |
18. Brazilian Pão de Queijo
Not only are these cheesy bread rolls from Brazil gluten-free, but they also pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of mate, a traditional beverage in Brazil.
key Aspects: Brazilian Pão de Queijo
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | Brazil |
| Main Ingredients: | Tapioca flour, cheese (typically Parmesan), eggs |
| Texture: | Chewy, elastic, slightly crispy on the outside |
| Flavor Profile: | Savory, cheesy, with a hint of saltiness |
| Serving Style: | Typically served as small, round rolls |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Brazilian mate tea or black tea |
| Cultural Significance: | A beloved Brazilian snack and breakfast item |
| Customization/Variations: | Varieties with different cheese or fillings |
19. Egyptian Basbousa
A rose or orange blossom syrup is typically soaked into a semolina cake to make basbousa. Enjoy a piece or two with a hot cup of Egyptian mint tea for a flavour combination that is both sweet and revitalising.
key Aspects: Egyptian Basbousa
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | Egypt |
| Main Ingredients: | Semolina, sugar, yogurt, coconut, almonds |
| Texture: | Moist and crumbly |
| Flavor Profile: | Sweet, aromatic, and nutty |
| Serving Style: | Cut into diamond or square-shaped pieces |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Egyptian mint tea or black tea |
| Cultural Significance: | Popular dessert at celebrations and feasts |
| Customization and Variations: | Variations include adding rosewater or orange blossom water, and garnishing with pistachios or cherries. |
20. Australian Lamingtons
A popular dessert in Australia, these squares of sponge cake are covered in chocolate and then topped with shredded coconut. Have some with a cup of the traditional afternoon tea served in Australia.
key Aspects:Australian Lamingtons
| Aspects | Description |
| Origin: | Australia |
| Main Ingredients: | Sponge cake, chocolate icing, shredded coconut |
| Texture: | Soft and fluffy sponge cake covered in a thick layer of chocolate icing and coconut flakes |
| Flavor Profile: | Sweet, with a combination of chocolate and coconut |
| Serving Style: | Typically served as small, square or rectangular pieces |
| Tea Pairing Suggestions: | Black tea, particularly Australian afternoon tea |
| Cultural Significance: | A beloved Australian dessert, often enjoyed on Australia Day |
| Customization and Variations: | Variations include adding jam or cream filling between cake layers. |
Everyone loves tea and treats, so tea time is a great tradition that brings people together from all over the world. These 20 tasty treats from around the world give you an idea of the wide range of tasty things you can eat with your tea. This is a wonderful time of day with something for everyone, whether they like sweet or savoury foods. So, the next time you make your favourite tea, why not try one of these treats from around the world to make it even better?
FAQ
Where did tea time come from?
Tea time is thought to have begun in England in the mid-nineteenth century. It was a social ritual that served as a break between lunch and dinner, and it was frequently accompanied by tea and light snacks.
What are some important tea-time etiquette guidelines?
Tea etiquette includes using the proper tea utensils, gently stirring tea, and cooling with your saucer. It’s also courteous to wait until everyone has been served before beginning to eat.
Can I start my own teatime tradition with special treats?
Absolutely! Tea time is a malleable tradition that you can personalise by experimenting with various teas and treats from around the world. Have fun with it and be creative!
