5 Teatime Classic Pairings with Sweet Confections That Won't Weigh You Down

Sweeten your tea time with healthier desserts that are not too heavy on the mouth or the body. These are guilt-free indulgences that do not overwhelm the tea’s flavor.

While tea is often enjoyed on its own, pairing it with a light snack can make the experience more satisfying and curb hunger pangs. However, most traditional slightly sweet tea-time treats like butter cakes tend to be high on calories, fat, and sugar.

So, it's no surprise that savory is the usual choice when picking the perfect companion for your tea In fact, this has been the tradition ever since tea time became a thing. Who doesn’t like a cup of tea with a snack that does not overwhelm the flavors of the milder tea?

But, what if we tell you there are desserts that don’t weigh you down as much, or cause bloating, and do not lead to weight gain? Sweet desserts are best had with unsweetened tea to relish the full flavors. The trick to pairing something sweet with tea is to pick something acidic in nature.

1. Chocolate Chia Pudding

Similar to the ever-popular overnight oats, chia pudding can be made overnight and stored in the fridge. Add a dash of cocoa powder to the chia seeds concoction and you have the perfect tea-time pairing, which is also on the healthier side. Soak the chia seeds; you can also use basil seeds in case chia seeds are not within reach, in milk or yogurt overnight, and mix in a spoon or two of cocoa powder; adjust for taste. Keep it overnight in the fridge for a sweet treat alongside your regular tea. This pudding-like concoction is surprisingly low in calories and high in fiber, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids.

2. Mini Fruit Tarts

Fruits are acidic in nature, and owing to them, along with their biscuit-like crust, these tarts are a healthier alternative to ordinary ones with their fatty fillings. Instead of the usual crust, which has a large amount of butter, you can pick up dry crackers, whipped cream, and fruits. Use seasonal fruits such as grapes, apples, and pears, chop them up, and put them with the whipped cream right on top of the cracker. Almost bite-sized, neither are they too filling nor are they too light, which makes them perfect for tea time when the munchies kick in.

3. Yogurt fruit cups

Regular curd will do for this fruit cup if you don’t have yogurt. Pick fresh fruits, bananas, apples, grapes, kiwis, and/or oranges; add them to the yogurt. Give it a nice swirl so the fruit does not stick out awkwardly on top. Serve them in small cups alongside your tea to guests and family. For extra flair, a spoonful of granola or coconut flakes can be sprinkled on top. The fruit provides natural sweetness, while the yogurt adds protein. This is a great option especially if you have been struggling to meet your daily nutritional quota of vitamins and minerals. You get a healthy bowl with tea which is rich in antioxidants.

4. Blueberry Muffins

This is an absolute cult classic of tea time, especially in corporate settings. We are not suggesting bringing your office home, but to try this combination if you have never had it before. Blueberries are more or less available throughout the year, so, consider adding fresh ones if you are making muffins; the dried ones are perfectly fine to use as well. They are rich in antioxidants like your favorite cuppa. Since these are tea-time muffins, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour (maida) to add more fiber and nutrients. The muffins can be made in a mini size so they are not too heavy on the tummy.

5. Coconut Macaroons

Not to be confused with the colorful macarons, macaroons are small cake-like cookies typically containing nuts and coconuts, and no, they are not colorful. As a tea-time dessert, coconut macaroons are ideal because they are bite-sized and easy to eat without making a mess, besides also being lower in calories if you compare them to the typical dessert-like treats. Their subtle sweetness allows the flavor of the tea to shine through. Being naturally gluten-free and often vegan, coconut macaroons are a good option for those following a diet. Their simple preparation also means they can be made in advance and stored for a few days, making them very convenient for tea parties and when entertaining guests.