Dreaming of sipping tea and gossiping with the Queen? While we can’t promise a dance with a duke, we can offer the next best thing: a delectable spread of Bridgerton-inspired treats that will transport you straight to the opulent world of Lady Whistledown’s ton. Prepare your finest china, don your most elegant gloves, and let’s indulge in a royal feast fit for a duchess!
No Bridgerton tea party would be complete without a touch of Earl Grey, and this ethereal whipped cream delivers the perfect hint of bergamot alongside a cloud-like texture that will have you swooning.
Here’s how to recreate this elegant treat:
Infuse the Cream: In a saucepan, gently heat 2 1/2 cups of double cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add 5 Earl Grey tea bags. Allow the tea to steep for at least 30 minutes, or longer for a more intense flavor.
Whip to Perfection: Once the cream has cooled completely, remove the tea bags and add 3 tablespoons of sugar. Using a whisk or an electric mixer, beat the cream until stiff peaks form.
Craft Your Edible Teacups (Optional): For an extra touch of Bridgerton flair, create edible teacups and saucers using puff pastry.
Assemble and Swoon: Spoon the Earl Grey whipped cream into your pastry cups (or serve in elegant bowls), and prepare for a symphony of flavors that would make even Queen Charlotte swoon.
“Oh, how utterly charming!” We can practically hear Queen Charlotte exclaiming as she reaches for a second (or third) serving.
For those who prefer a bit of zest with their tea, these lemon meringue cupcakes are the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
Follow these steps to create your own mini masterpieces:
Bake the Cupcakes: Preheat your oven to 325°F (170°C). Combine 1 cup (2 sticks) of softened butter with 1 3/4 cups of sugar and cream together until light and fluffy. Beat in 4 eggs, one at a time, then gradually incorporate 3 cups of sifted cake flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Finally, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 cup of milk, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Divide the batter evenly among lined cupcake tins and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Concoct the Lemon Curd: While the cupcakes are baking, prepare the lemon curd. Whisk together 4 egg yolks and 1/2 cup of sugar in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Once the sugar has dissolved, whisk in 1/2 cup of lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of lemon zest. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 4 tablespoons of butter until melted. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Whip Up the Meringue: In a clean heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, whisk 4 egg whites and 1 cup of sugar until thickened and the sugar dissolves.
Assemble and Torch: Once the cupcakes have cooled, use a sharp knife to cut a small well in the center of each one. Spoon a generous dollop of lemon curd into each well, then top with the meringue, using a piping bag or a spoon. For a final flourish, use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the meringue. If you don’t have a torch, you can carefully broil the cupcakes for a few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
"A triumph!" Lady Danbury would declare, dabbing her lips with a delicate napkin.
With these recipes in hand, you’re well on your way to hosting a Bridgerton-themed bash that would make even Queen Charlotte proud. Set the scene with delicate floral arrangements, lace doilies, and antique teacups. Encourage your guests to don their finest Regency attire and brush up on their gossip.
But before you dive into this decadent spread, remember to capture the magic with a few photos worthy of Lady Whistledown’s Society Papers. After all, a taste of Bridgerton is best enjoyed with a side of elegance and a sprinkle of social media buzz!
