The ritual of afternoon tea introduces a moment of calm indulgence into a busy day. Whether taken at an elegant restaurant or DIY-ed at home, afternoon tea is a great way to recharge your energies and reflect on your day.

But what if you could elevate this experience from good to extraordinary? The secret lies in the art of tea pairing, a skill that is surprisingly simple to learn. Just as wine can be expertly paired with food, tea can be matched with cakes, baked treats, or confectionary to complement its flavours and aromas.

Every cup of tea tells a story—and the right slice of cake is the perfect companion to enhance it.

The Fundamentals of Pairing Tea and Cake

The core principle of tea pairing is balance. The two flavours should complements or contrast each other without one overpowering the other. A robust, bold tea, for example, can stand up to a rich, heavy cake. While a delicate, floral tea is the perfect partner for a light, fruity dessert. In contrast, if you pair a stronger tea with a lighter cake, you might not be able to taste the cake at all.

When considering what to make for afternoon tea, here are some classic combinations to start you off:

  • Rich Chocolate & Bold Black Tea: Our Signature Chocolate Fudge Cake or Vegan Chocolate Mudcake (Egg- & Dairy-Free) pairs wonderfully with a strong black tea such as Earl Grey or Assam. The tea’s slight bitterness cuts through the cake’s richness, cleansing the palate and allowing you to fully appreciate both flavours.
  • Light Fruit Cakes & White/Green Tea: Delicate teas like Sencha or White Peony beautifully complement the freshness of a Japanese Yuzu Chiffon Cake or Lychee Rose Cake. The subtle, grassy notes of a green tea or matcha can also highlight the natural sweetness of fresh berries on a Mixed Berries Shortcake. If you want to buy fresh fruit cake in Singapore that pairs perfectly with your afternoon tea selection, our catalogue of cakes is ripe for the picking!
  • Creamy Cheesecakes & Herbal Infusions: The smooth, creamy texture of a Classic New York Cheesecake or Burnt Basque Cheesecake calls for a soothing, aromatic herbal or floral tea. Gentle notes of chamomile or rose tea balance its richness, creating a smooth and harmonious blend. Our cheesecake shop offers a variety of creamy cheesecakes that add a touch of indulgence to your afternoon treat.


While classic pairings are a safe bet, exploring unique flavour combinations can be fun and delicious too!

  • Pandan Cake & Jasmine Green Tea: For a distinctly Singaporean twist, complement the best pandan cake in Singapore with a light jasmine green tea. Jasmine’s aromatic floral notes complement the subtle, fragrant sweetness of the pandan perfectly.
  • Lemon Tart & Ginger Tea: The zesty tang of Mini Lemon Meringue Tarts contrasts delightfully to the spicy notes of a ginger tea, for a warm and invigorating flavour experience.
  • Sugar-Free Cakes & Unsweetened Tea: Sugar-free cake is best enjoyed with an unsweetened herbal infusion. The natural sweetness of the tea’s herbs and flowers enhance the flavour of the cake without any added sugar, for a healthy dessert.

Creating a Special Experience with Your Afternoon Tea Catering

The simple pleasure of a well-paired tea and cake is a small luxury that brings great joy.

When planning your afternoon tea catering, whether hosting friends or just for yourself, having a selection of tea and cakes on the dessert table is a thoughtful touch. It shows a level of detail and care that will surely be appreciated, elevating this mid-afternoon moment to an elegant immersion of the senses.

Visit Edith Patisserie’s website and order freshly baked cakes, tarts, and other treats online to complete your afternoon tea selection. Let us help you find the perfect tea and cake pairing for your next celebration.