The Christmas season is one of the busiest times of the year.  For some, it is a deeply religious holiday.  For others, it is an opportunity to celebrate the meaning of giving to others and the sharing of friendship.

An afternoon tea can be as simple as a teacup or mug filled with a favorite blend, a light repast with a few savories and sweets to a full-blown elaborate affair.  Your theme can be traditional or whimsical.  Be creative in the shapes and fillings. Cookie cutters are my go-to favorites for both savories and sweets. Explore craft stores for décor.

A holiday tea party can be to trim the tree, have a cookie swap or gift exchange, a fundraiser to help a cause, or to gather with colleagues, family and friends.

Santa knows who has been naughty or nice, so remember an act of kindness will go a long, long way!   Wishing all a very Merry Christmas and a healthy, happy, safe New Year.

Holiday Tea Menu

Sandwiches and Savory Fillings

Cucumber and Mint, Smoked Salmon and Lemon Chive Paste

Egg and Diced Black Olive Spread, Mini Shepard Pie,

Cinnamon- Date Cream Cheese, Turkey with Cranberry Mayonnaise, Ham and Watercress, Roast-beef with Horseradish

Cranberry Corn Muffins, Currant and Butterscotch ~ Ginger Scones

Lemon and Lime Curd, Cranberry and Strawberry Preserves

Sweets

Pecan Crème Crepe Roll Bite

Gingerbread Cake and Cookies

Jordan Sugar Almonds, Almond Trifle

Assorted Mini Pies- Apple, Pumpkin, Minced

Dark Chocolate Peppermint Truffle, Ribbon Candy

Eggnog, Hot Chocolate and Marshmallows

Assorted Traditional Teas and Chai,

Dessert Teas and Infusions ~ Caramel Apple,

Almond Coconut Macaroon or Gingerbread Red Rooibos,

Christmas Sugar Cubes, Candied Ginger, Milk, Sliced Lemon

Holiday Shapes for Tea Sandwiches~ Star, Snowflake, Holly Leaf, Gingerbread Man

Mini Shepard Pi

Afternoon Tea Sandwiches Wreath

Scones, Devon Cream, Lemon and Lime Curd

Lemon Curd and Cranberry Preserves

Cranberry Corn Muffins

Marshmallows, Cookies, Dark Chocolate Peppermint Truffles, Candied Ginger, Jordan Sugar Almonds

Basket of Gingerbread Tea Cakes

Reva Paul Christmas Tree Sugar Cubes

Holiday Table Settings

 A quick cheat sheet on the seven-course service order:

1) Hors d’oeuvre 2) soup 3) fish or salad course 4) palate cleanser 5) main course 6) cheese 7) dessert and coffee/ tea

Small Centerpieces

 Appetizers USA

The Republic of Tea Dessert Teas

Christmas Tree Pan
Star Cookie Cutters

Quick Links:

Table Manners and Table Settings

You Are Invited

Festive Holiday Table Décor

Holiday Cookies Galore

©Ellen Easton ~ All Rights Reserved