19 Tea Party Finger Food Recipe
Ever wanted to throw a fancy tea party with those adorable tiny sandwiches and pretty little cakes?
But the idea of making everything feels a little overwhelming? If you love the idea of a classic tea party but want simple, delicious recipes, you’re in the right place!
Why You’ll Love These Recipes:
- Easy to make: Simple recipes for stress-free entertaining.
- Classic flavors: All your tea party favorites with no fussy ingredients.
- Bite-sized and beautiful: Perfect for a fancy tea party spread.
So Let’s Dive Right In.
19 Delicious Finger Food Recipes You”ll Wish You Knew Sooner
Smoked Salmon and Dill Tea Sandwiches
I love the mix of smoky salmon with the fresh taste of dill and creamy cheese. The flavors are all so light but they work so well together! It really feels like a fancy treat, even though it’s simple to make.
- Pros: Easy, elegant, refreshing, perfect for a light lunch.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Try other herbs instead of dill, or swap out the salmon for a different smoked fish.
- Cooking Tip: For the softest bread, always trim off the crusts!
- Customization Ideas: Add a few thin slices of cucumber or a touch of lemon zest for extra brightness.
- Indian Touch: Substitute the dill with fresh coriander (cilantro) and add a sprinkle of chaat masala for a zesty twist.
Cucumber, Cream Cheese, and Chive Tea Sandwiches
These are the absolute definition of a refreshing snack. The cucumber is so crisp and the chives add a little peppery bite. It’s a classic combo for a reason – everyone always goes back for seconds!
- Pros: Super easy, a crowd-pleaser, healthy, no-cook recipe.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Swap chives for finely chopped green onion or scallions.
- Cooking Tip: Make sure your cream cheese is softened so it spreads easily.
- Customization Ideas: Add a tiny bit of minced garlic to the cream cheese, or a few slices of radish for some color and crunch.
- Indian Touch: Add a pinch of cumin and a bit of finely chopped green chili to the cream cheese mixture for a subtle spice kick.
Spinach and Feta Pinwheels
I love how the spinach and feta filling gets all melty and gooey, while the dough stays flaky and crisp. These pinwheels are surprisingly filling and so easy to eat as an appetizer or snack.
- Pros: Savory, cheesy, portable, make-ahead friendly.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use any leafy green you like instead of spinach, or try a different cheese like ricotta or mozzarella.
- Cooking Tip: Make sure to squeeze as much liquid out of your spinach as possible, or the pinwheels will be soggy.
- Customization Ideas: Add crumbled bacon, chopped olives, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Indian Touch: Substitute paneer for the feta and add a sprinkle of garam masala to the filling.
Mini Quiches with Gruyere and Herbs
These little quiches are so rich and creamy! The Gruyere cheese adds a lovely nutty flavor, and you can use any fresh herbs you have on hand. They feel impressive, but are actually pretty simple.
- Pros: Savory, customizable, make-ahead option, perfect for brunch.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Experiment with other cheeses, chopped veggies, or even cooked meats.
- Cooking Tip: Blind bake the crusts for a few minutes before adding the filling to prevent them from getting soggy.
- Customization Ideas: Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives before serving.
- Indian Touch: Add sautéed onions and a pinch of chili powder to the filling for a flavorful twist.
Caprese Salad Skewers
These little skewers are like a burst of summer! I really love the combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil. Drizzling some balsamic on top takes it to the next level.
- Pros: Fresh, light, no-cook, incredibly easy.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use cherry or grape tomatoes, or experiment with different types of mozzarella.
- Cooking Tip: Use the best quality tomatoes and mozzarella you can find – it makes a huge difference.
- Customization Ideas: Add a slice of prosciutto or a marinated artichoke heart to each skewer.
- Indian Touch: Skip the basil and use mint leaves instead and a drizzle of mint-coriander chutney.
Butter Salt Thyme Honey Radishes
These always make me smile! They’re so cute and add a bit of whimsy to any party platter. The herbed butter is really the star here – it complements the peppery radishes perfectly.
- Pros: Beautiful, impressive, healthy, naturally gluten-free.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use different colored radishes for a vibrant display.
- Cooking Tip: Keep your radishes cold and crisp for the easiest carving.
- Customization Ideas: Mix in your favorite herbs or spices with the butter.
- Indian Touch: Swap the butter with a spiced yogurt dip and a sprinkle of chaat masala.
Spicy Pesto Cheese Stuffed with Roasted Red Peppers
I adore the earthy flavor of the mushrooms with the tangy goat cheese and sweet roasted pepper. These are a great vegetarian party bite and always disappear fast!
- Pros: Flavorful, satisfying, easy to make, gluten-free.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use different types of soft cheese like ricotta or feta.
- Cooking Tip: Remove the mushroom stems to make more space for the filling.
- Customization Ideas: Add chopped herbs, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs, or a drizzle of balsamic.
- Indian Touch: Mix in finely chopped paneer and some Indian spices to the goat cheese mixture.
Tomato Basil Bruschetta with Balsamic Drizzle
Nothing beats the classic combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a good balsamic glaze. The key is using the best, freshest ingredients. Simple and perfect for summer!
- Pros: Fresh, vibrant, easy to assemble, crowd-pleaser.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Experiment with different types of tomatoes or add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cooking Tip: Toast the bread for a nice crunch and to prevent it from getting soggy.
- Customization Ideas: Add a dollop of ricotta, a drizzle of pesto, or a few slices of grilled vegetables.
- Indian Touch: Skip the basil and top with seasoned paneer instead, plus a sprinkle of chaat masala.
Deviled Eggs with Smoked Paprika
These are my go-to party snack! The smoked paprika adds a nice depth of flavor to the classic deviled egg. I like these a little spicy, but you can adjust the heat to your liking.
- Pros: Easy, make-ahead, customizable, always popular.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Experiment with different spices, add chopped bacon, or a dollop of pesto.
- Cooking Tip: Don’t overcook the eggs, or the yolks will turn dry and crumbly.
- Customization Ideas: Top with a tiny piece of smoked salmon or a sprinkle of chives.
- Indian Touch: Add a pinch of turmeric to the yolk mixture and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Mini Fruit Tartlets
I love how these little tarts look like something from a bakery! The sweet fruit and creamy custard are amazing together. Plus, using store-bought tart shells makes them super easy.
- Pros: Sweet, elegant, customizable, make-ahead option.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use any type of fruit you like, fresh or frozen.
- Cooking Tip: Make sure your custard is completely set before adding the fruit. If not, it will make the crusts soggy.
- Customization Ideas: Drizzle with melted chocolate, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts.
- Indian Touch: Replace some custard with mango puree and top with chopped pistachios.
Raspberry Macarons
Macarons can be tricky, but they’re so worth it when you get them right. I love the chewy texture, almond flavor, and the burst of raspberry filling. These feel like a special treat!
- Pros: Elegant, sophisticated, unique flavors, naturally gluten-free.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Try different fillings – fruit jams, buttercream, or chocolate ganache.
- Cooking Tip: Macarons really do require precise measurements and techniques. Follow a trusted recipe carefully!
- Customization Ideas: Decorate with edible flowers, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate.
- Indian Touch: Try a rose-flavored filling or a filling with mango puree.
Lemon Madeleine Cookies
These little shell-shaped cookies are light and airy with a lovely citrus flavor. They’re perfect with a cup of tea and feel fancy without being too fussy.
- Pros: Delicate, subtly sweet, elegant, easy to transport.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use orange, lime, or other citrus instead of lemon.
- Cooking Tip: A madeleine pan gives them their classic shape, but a mini muffin tin will work too.
- Customization Ideas: Dip half of each madeleine in melted chocolate or add a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Indian Touch: Substitute the citrus with cardamom or use a light saffron-infused glaze.
Lavender Shortbread Cookies
These have such a unique and comforting flavor. The floral notes of lavender pair perfectly with the buttery shortbread. These are a lovely and unexpected change of pace!
- Pros: Unique flavor, delicate, not too sweet, good for gifting.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Experiment with other dried herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Cooking Tip: Don’t overwork the dough, or the shortbread will be tough.
- Customization Ideas: Add edible lavender buds to the dough or decorate with lavender sugar.
- Indian Touch: Use a light dusting of rose powder or try chai-spiced shortbread.
Chocolate Éclairs
These mini éclairs are a decadent treat! The creamy pastry filling and rich chocolate glaze are so satisfying. While they take a bit more effort, they’re always a showstopper.
- Pros: Impressive, indulgent, classic dessert, surprisingly easy.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Fill with flavored pastry cream like vanilla, coffee, or hazelnut.
- Cooking Tip: Pipe the choux pastry dough into even strips for the best shape.
- Customization Ideas: Top with chopped nuts, sprinkles, or edible gold leaf.
- Indian Touch: Fill with a cardamom-flavored pastry cream or top with a drizzle of rose syrup.
Mini Carrot Cake Bites
I love the moist texture and warm spices in these little cake bites. They’re a great way to get your carrot cake fixed in a portion-controlled way. Plus, the cream cheese frosting is irresistible!
- Pros: Comforting, sweet but not overly so, easy to eat, kid-friendly.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Add chopped walnuts, raisins, or shredded coconut for added texture.
- Cooking Tip: Don’t overbake, or the cakes will be dry.
- Customization Ideas: Decorate with mini chocolate chips or try a different frosting flavor.
- Indian Touch: Substitute some of the carrots with applesauce and add garam masala to the batter.
Blueberry Scones
These scones have a wonderful tropical vibe. The bananas, pineapple, and spices add a burst of fruity sweetness, while the texture is moist and crumbly – perfect for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Pros: Unique flavor, comforting, easy to make, perfect with tea.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Cooking Tip: Don’t overmix the dough for the lightest, fluffiest scones.
- Customization Ideas: Drizzle with a simple icing, or serve with whipped coconut cream.
- Indian Touch: Substitute the pineapple with mango and add a pinch of cardamom to the dough.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Such a simple treat, but always so satisfying! The sweet strawberries and rich dark chocolate are a match made in heaven. These are always a special occasion favorite for a reason.
- Pros: Easy, elegant, perfect for gifting, naturally gluten-free.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Use any type of chocolate or try different drizzles like white chocolate or caramel.
- Cooking Tip: Make sure your strawberries are completely dry before dipping for the best chocolate adhesion.
- Customization Ideas: Dip in chopped nuts, sprinkles, or coconut flakes before the chocolate sets.
- Indian Touch: Use ruby chocolate for a unique twist, and sprinkle with a bit of edible rose petal powder.
Mini Pavlovas with Fresh Berries
I adore the light, airy texture of the meringue! The crisp shell and soft marshmallowy center are amazing with the creamy topping and juicy berries. These look so impressive too.
- Pros: Elegant, make-ahead option, customizable with your favorite fruit, naturally gluten-free.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Top with whipped cream, lemon curd, or custard instead.
- Cooking Tip: Pavlovas are sensitive to humidity, so bake on a dry day if possible.
- Customization Ideas: Create a beautiful display with a mix of different berries.
- Indian Touch: Top with mango puree, chopped pistachios, and a sprinkle of cardamom.
Vanilla Cream Puffs
Cream puffs are the perfect combination of crispy pastry and luscious filling. The vanilla pastry cream is classic and comforting, making this a dessert everyone loves.
- Pros: Impressive, classic dessert, surprisingly easy, the filling is customizable.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Experiment with different flavored pastry creams (chocolate, coffee, hazelnut).
- Cooking Tip: Pipe the pastry into even mounds for best results.
- Customization Ideas: Drizzle with chocolate sauce, dust with powdered sugar, or dip the tops in melted chocolate.
- Indian Touch: Use a rose-flavored pastry cream or drizzle with saffron-infused milk.
Conclusion
So there you have it – a delicious collection of finger foods perfect for your next tea party! I hope this list gave you some yummy inspiration. If you loved these ideas, be sure to save this article so you can come back and try all of these recipes.
Hosting a tea party is fun, but planning can be tough. Help a friend out by sharing this list if you know someone else who might find it useful!
Finally, I want to hear from you! Let me know in the comments below which of these tea party treats you’re most excited to try! Did I miss any of your favorites?