There’s something genuinely magical about afternoon tea — the soft clink of china, the sweet scent of fresh bakes, and the comfort of sharing good food with good company. And when you bring a Welsh twist to this time-honoured tradition, it becomes even more special.
At CwtchBakes, we believe the best afternoon teas are the ones filled with love, heritage, and plenty of homemade treats. So, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, marking a milestone, or just fancy a cosy gathering, here’s how to host your very own Welsh Afternoon Tea — with all the charm and cwtch you need.
Step 1: Set the Scene
Welsh afternoon tea is all about comfort and character. Think rustic charm over formality — vintage crockery, fresh flowers, and a table with handmade touches.
- Use a linen or Welsh tapestry-style tablecloth.
- Add wildflowers, daffodils, or a mini leek bouquet for a patriotic nod.
- Play soft traditional Welsh music in the background — harps and harmony go a long way.
Step 2: The Star of the Show — Welsh Cakes
No Welsh afternoon tea is complete without our national treasure: Welsh Cakes.
Serve them warm (if possible!), lightly dusted with sugar. For variety, offer a few flavours—traditional currant, chocolate chip, lemon, and thyme… the more, the merrier.
Top tip: Stack them on a tiered cake stand or serve in a lined basket for that homey look.
Step 3: Savoury Bites with a Welsh Twist
Add some heartier options to balance the sweetness:
- Mini Rarebit Toasts – A bite-sized version of classic Welsh rarebit (cheesy mustard goodness on toast).
- Leek & Cheese Tarts – A nod to Wales’ national vegetable, these can be prepped ahead and served warm or cold.
- Cocktail Bara Brith Sandwiches – Lightly buttered slices of bara brith filled with cream cheese or brie.
Step 4: Sweet Treats & Bakes
Complement the Welsh Cakes with a few more traditional (and a few not-so-traditional) bakes:
- Bara Brith – Sliced and buttered, this spiced tea loaf is a classic.
- Teisen Lap – A conventional Welsh moist cake that’s ideal served in squares.
- Seasonal Jam Tarts or Shortbread – Simple, sweet, and always a hit.
- Mini Victoria Sponge Cakes – Not strictly Welsh, but adored on any tea table.
Step 5: Tea, of Course!
No afternoon tea is complete without the perfect brew.
- Offer traditional black tea (Welsh Brew or Glengettie are lovely local options).
- Include herbal options too — perhaps a chamomile, mint, or lemon balm infusion.
- Serve with milk and sugar cubes, and maybe even a splash of Welsh honey on the side.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
To make it extra memorable:
- Provide handwritten name cards or little menus with a Welsh greeting (“Croeso i’r Te Prynhawn!” – Welcome to Afternoon Tea!).
- Include a little keepsake — a mini recipe card, a Welsh Cake to take home, or a sachet of loose-leaf tea.
The CwtchBakes Way
At the heart of every good tea is one thing: cwtch. That warm, welcoming feeling that says “you’re cared for.” Whether you go big or keep it simple, your guests will feel it in every bite.
Hosting a Welsh Afternoon Tea is about more than just food — it’s about slowing down, sharing stories, and celebrating togetherness with flavours that have stood the test of time.
Need help with the bakes? Let CwtchBakes take care of it.
From ready-to-serve Welsh Cakes to lovingly curated treat boxes, we’ve got everything you need for a perfect Welsh tea — just add teapots.