Why not use all of the options you’ve got? There’s so many kinds of desserts, pastries, biscuits and sandwiches in the world!

Sure, this post is inspired by the trend that Anne, Duchess of Bedford, started in 1840. It’s more of a meal than just a drink. You’ve got your (ideally) three tiers, or one plate or an expertly glued together cake stand. You’ve got some tea snacks, and you’ve got your favorite tea! 

If you’re reading this right now my sincere hope is that you have access to a grocery store. I also know that might mean all of the bread is gone, or the prized ingredient needed to make your scones and clotted cream might be gone. You can still make your tea time as fancy (or as casual) as you want! I’ll tell my teacher in my Tea Sommelier program to cover her ears on this one, but you can even boil some hot water and mint, or some ginger and lemon. It can really be that simple.

BUILDING A CAKE STAND

I’ve compiled a list of recipes from some of my favorite bloggers to give you some delicious ideas on how to setup your QuaranTEA. You can easily make a cakestand on your own if you don’t hav eone, check out my story highlights to see how. If you really want to treat yourself to a delicious tea time, I’ve got a roundup of recipes below. They’re not all British but they’re delicious and gorgeous. But truly cookies, cake or sandwiches you have on hand or can easily make are perfectly fine. The point is really taking time out to relax, treat yourself and/or share social time with others (even if it has to be virtually right now). 

SWEETS

For a healthier treat try these 6-ingredient grain and refined sugar free No Bake Vanilla Cake Bites or No Bake Carrot Cake Bites. I love these adorable cheesecake bites. Or try some delicious mini sesame balls filled with sweet red bean paste, these matcha mochi rice cakes or these Earl Grey Tea Cupcakesif you’re feeling adventurous, this gorgeous peda white chocolate bark looks amazing.

BREAD & PASTRY

If you’re just dying to use this extra time to make some British style scones and clotted cream, try this Clotted Cream recipe or this Instant Pot one. Fair warning- this should be made in advance it takes awhile to cook. Here is a quick “Mock” version that calls for ingredients that may be easier to find than non-ultra pateurized cream. Here is a more traditional jam recipe, or for healthier jams I really like this chiaseed jam recipe and this one. 

I’ll also add some of gorgeous cookie recipes like these funfetti shortbread cookies or these chocolate chip turtle cookies- as I do like to put cookies on my second tier. 

SANDWICHES & SAVORY

If you’ve got some Puff Pastry laying around in your freezer like I do, give this masala puffs recipe a try! Talk about cake stand bottom tier cuteness! For cute circle tea sandwiches, try finding something from this roundup. And here are my chili paneer dumplings which are a great savory addition to many cake stand!

I hope these ideas have inspired you! If you do decide to setup a delicious looking QuaranTEA tomorrow or in the next few weeks, please tag @thetiffinkitchen and I’ll repost. Whether its hot water and a lipton bag + a plate of chocolate chip cookies or a while cakestand getup with freshly brewed Earl Grey and milk, I’d love to see it!