Afternoon tea recipes with a twist

The classic scone is all very well and good, but it could be made infinitely better with the addition of a splash of Pimm's – add a dash to fruit and cream and pile onto scones for a true taste of summer. If you're entertaining a big group, a slice of our giant scone is bound to satisfy the hungriest of guests...

Swap traditional tipples for... original cocktails

An elegant afternoon with friends demands an elegant drink. Our Earl Grey Martini requires just three ingredients and can be assembled in minutes, or take inspiration from the hedgerow and mix up a batch of summer punch with elderflower liqueur.

Swap sandwiches for... new wave nibbles

Don't be afraid of bold flavours and modern fillings for your dainty plates. There are plenty of creative options out there that easily trump a fiddly finger sandwich.

These tangy salt beef bagels pack a lot of flavour into a mini bagel bite and they're easy to assemble before serving.

If you want to switch up your sandwiches for an Italian-themed nibble, try these truffled 'macancini' balls, with pasta, cheese, truffle and a golden brown crumb. If you prefer the Spanish side of the Med, try these paella arancini bites, served with olives and chorizo, or traditional ham croquetas for a deep-fried hit of indulgence.

Push the boat out even further and put on a Chinese-style spread, with these steamed bao buns, filled with barbecue pork and pickled veggies.

Swap everyday cakes for... spectacular sponges

We love a Victoria sponge as much as the next person, but if you're looking for a slice less ordinary, try one of our unconventional afternoon tea options.

Our stunning summer Pimm's cake will brighten up any afternoon tea, a slice at a time. Our equally festive summer party cake has everything you need to enjoy with a cuppa: buttery sponge, strawberries, fresh cream, meringues and white chocolate.

Step even further into the whimsical with our individual unicorn cupcakes, complete with pastel-swirled buttercream. Add an even brighter pop of colour with a funfetti masterpiece, sure to please kids and adults alike.

Swap boring biscuits for... creative cookies

Ditch the digestives and go for these carrot cake cookies, a twist on your favourite cake. Or, if you're looking for something fudgy and sweet, these Twix cookies are amazing served warm from the oven. If you're a serious cocoa addict, try our black tahini chocolate cookies for a nutty, sesame-laced flavour, or try something truly nutty with our double choc peanut butter cookies.

Swap standard pastries for... modern patisserie

Patisserie is an essential part of any afternoon tea. It can be fiddly to master, but the end result is well worth the effort. If you're happy to take on choux pastry, give conventional eclair fillings the heave-ho and treat yourself to a salted caramel & popcorn version. Alternatively, raspberry & cardamom or lemon & passion fruit mini choux bites are great options for fans of fruity flavours. Finally, pipe yourself some afternoon tea churro bites, sprinkled with cinnamon and served with clotted cream and jam for dipping – sensational.

More on afternoon tea...

How to throw an afternoon tea party
Travel guide: The best afternoon teas in the UK
Classic afternoon tea recipes

What's on the menu for your ideal afternoon tea? Let us know in the comments below...