Review: Vanilla Frost does Vintage Teas

I’m more than a bit partial to an afternoon tea – all the gorgeous china, the immaculate little sandwiches and of course the sweet treats. I love the ritual of it, the Britishness and also feeling like i’m in a costume drama. Shall we take a turn about the room dear?!

So I was delighted when my friend Lucy, the incredibly talented baker behind Vanilla Frost, invited me  and a few other ladies over to her place to road test her new Vintage Tea Party service.

The concept:

Lucy’s idea is to bring her vintage teas to YOU. She’ll deliver everything – the table cloth, the crockery and most importantly the FEAST! Whether you want to plan a special birthday treat for someone, a baby shower or hen party this could be the perfect way to make it really memorable. Maybe you’re in a book club and are reading a book set in a vintage era? Wouldn’t it be great to discuss your book over a tea like this?!

The spread:

When we arrived her dining room table was covered in a daintily embroidered table cloth topped with the most delicious looking array of delectable fancies for us to try.

Menu

A selection of finger sandwiches – egg, cheese, smoked salmon
Mini cupcakes with pink icing
Lemon Macarons
Battenberg
Cheese biscuits
Chocolate orange cake
Scones with clotted cream and jam 

tea and coffee

The table really did look stunning with all the vintage crockery Lucy and her mum have been collecting between them from boot sales and charity shops. It gives a really authentic feel to the table.

The sandwiches were perfectly sized and easy to eat – classic egg and cress being my fave. Lucy’s little cheese biscuits were crumbly and melted in the mouth. The lemon macarons were just divine – perfectly formed and that gorgeous crunch giving way to sticky chewy meringue, the sweetness being offset by the tang of the lemon curd filling.

The scones were HUGE so I shared one with Arlo so I could leave some room to try the rest of the spread. I couldn’t not have a scone. Not when there’s clotted cream and jam winking at you. Yum.

Next I had to try the battenberg – my favourite type of cake. I’ve still not had the guts to try and make one myself. Lucy’s was of course flawlessly executed. Light and fluffy square sponges of pink and yellow, coated with apricot jam and wrapped in a thin layer of soft marzipan. It sliced beautifully, so ideal for an afternoon tea.

Last up I tried the ultra impressive looking chocolate orange cake. The piping detail was incredible and when Lucy cut into it, she revealed multiple layers which I think always gives a cake that showstopping edge. The flavour was wonderful – not too sickly and a light but velvety texture.

I think Lucy’s Vintage Teas are a fab idea – great value and ideal for impressive entertaining with no stress or preparation involved. I can think of loads of occasions where it’d work brilliantly.

If you’re impressed and want to find out more check out Vanilla Frost for prices and delivery areas.