Treat the people you care for with tea and cake. VfL Roving Chef Claire shares some tips for a special afternoon tea.
Tea and cake: a timeless pairing
Whether it’s a robust English Breakfast, a delicate Earl Grey or a calming herbal infusion, tea invites us to pause for thought, or to share time with a loved one. And what better companion than cake?
Cakes add warmth and indulgence to the experience, and the beauty of tea and cake is their versatility –there’s always a pairing to suit the mood; a spiced cake with chai, a citrus sponge with green tea, or a rich chocolate slice with a bold Assam.
An inclusive National Tea Day
VfL's Vegan Baking Guide shares a few simple swaps for tasty bakes. Vegan baking is inclusive; ensuring everyone can join in – whether vegan, lactose-intolerant, or following dietary or religious preferences.
Ingredients such as plant-based milks, vegetable oils and egg alternatives allow bakers to create classic textures and flavours with lightness and moisture. Importantly, vegan cakes don’t feel like substitutes; they stand proudly on their own.
Here are a few of our favourite highlights from the Vegan Baking Guide to inspire your celebration:
This cake is a classic favourite; moist, gently spiced, and wonderfully satisfying. Made with grated carrots, warming cinnamon and ginger, and optional walnuts, it delivers texture and depth. A vegan cream cheese icing with orange zest adds a fresh, tangy finish. It is perfect with a strong cup of tea.
A staple of afternoon tea. This vegan recipe is light and airy without eggs or butter. Filled with jam and dairy-free cream, this nostalgic centrepiece proves tradition and inclusivity can go hand in hand.
Simple yet elegant, these crumbly, rich biscuits offer a bright citrus flavour that pair beautifully with lighter teas. They’re perfect for nibbling and sharing.
For something richer, a vegan chocolate cheesecake made with silken tofu and dairy-free chocolate, which delivers a creamy texture and indulgent taste. It’s a great example of how plant-based ingredients can create luxurious desserts.
A celebration for everyone
National Tea Day is about tradition and togetherness. By including vegan cakes in your celebration, you’re not replacing the classics – you’re expanding them.
On 21 April, set the table with a teapot, a selection of plant-based cakes, and an open invitation. Whether your guests are lifelong vegans or simply curious, they’ll discover that tea and cake, when made inclusively, taste even better.
How do you like to serve your tea? Do you have a favourite cake and tea paring? Let us know in the comments below.
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