Royal Baker Fiona Cairns Has Launched A New At-Home Afternoon Tea Range

Back in 2011, baker Fiona Cairns rose to fame after landing the commission of a lifetime: to make the wedding cake for Prince William and Kate Middleton. But you don’t have to be royalty to enjoy her creations. For many years, she has created a range of treats for Waitrose, and this August Fiona Cairns is launching a selection of new cakes to tie in with Afternoon Tea Week (11 – 17 August 2025). 

Fiona Cairns Launches New Afternoon Tea

Presented in the brand’s signature pink boxes and available to order on Ocado, the range includes mini versions of four of her bestselling cakes. There’s Lemon & Elderflower Mini Loaf Cake, decorated with elderflower buttercream; Chocolate & Cherry Mini Cakes, finished with chocolate buttercream and dried cherries; Fiona’s Signature Fondant Fancy, a Madagascan vanilla sponge with raspberry jam; and Raspberry & Rose Victoria Sponge, which is filled with a fruity raspberry jam and topped with edible glitter. 

‘Afternoon tea has always held a special place in my heart,’ says Cairns. ‘With this collection, we wanted to create something that feels both nostalgic and fresh – a little moment of beauty and indulgence that can be shared. We’ve lovingly crafted a wonderful tasting selection of cakes that we’re sure will bring lots of joy. All that’s needed is a pot of tea or a glass of bubbles to accompany them.’

Cairns and her husband Kishore Patel began making cakes back in the ‘80s, and before long they were baking for some of London’s most esteemed restaurants, shops and hotels including The Ritz, Harrods and The Conran Shop. In 1993, the brand joined forces with Waitrose, a partnership which has stood the test of time. 

Since then, Cairns and her team have baked a string of cakes for the royal family, beginning with William and Kate’s wedding cake: an eight-tiered fruit cake topped with marzipan. The brand also made the wedding cake for Lady Gabriella Windsor and Thomas Kingston, and collaborated with Harrods on a special afternoon tea for Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday. And most recently, the baker presented King Charles with his 70th birthday cake at Ascot Racecourse.

How To Host Afternoon Tea At Home: Top Tips From A Royal Baker

Thinking of hosting a little tea party next week? Cairns has shared her expert advice below.

A Table Worth Gathering Around

‘Presentation is everything. Use your finest china, mismatched pieces can be just as charming and don’t shy away from cake stands, pretty napkins and fresh flowers on the table. Transform your table into a visual feast.’

Bake with Heart

‘Make at least one showstopper. A simple classic Victoria sponge layered with softly whipped cream and homemade raspberry jam is hard to beat. Miniature bakes like lemon and elderflower, fondant fancies, or classic vanilla shortbreads add a delicate variety. Try to find out your guests’ favourites, to really treat them to an afternoon tea they won’t forget.’

The Savoury Balance

‘A good afternoon tea isn’t only sweet. Include a selection of delicate finger sandwiches: cucumber with mint butter, egg and cress, or smoked salmon with crème fraîche. Use the freshest bread and cut off the crusts for that extra touch of elegance.’

Scones Deserve the Spotlight

‘Serve your freshly baked scones warmed through if you can for extra deliciousness. They’re the heart of afternoon tea. Plain or fruit scones, halved and served with clotted cream and strawberry jam, always cream first in Devon, jam first in Cornwall! I say, do whatever feels right to you.’

Aromatic pairings

‘Offer a choice of loose-leaf teas: a fragrant Earl Grey or Darjeeling, or even a fresh mint tea. Serve in a teapot and use a strainer, it’s the little details that elevate the experience. And do remember to warm the teapot first! A glass of fizz would also be a very welcome addition. Nothing beats a glass (or two) of Cuvee Cherie from Nyetimber.’

Add a Personal Touch

‘A handwritten menu or name cards can add a sweet formality. Perhaps include a little take-home favour, a wrapped shortbread biscuit or a fondant fancy in a box tied with ribbon.’

Create Atmosphere

‘Soft classical music, garden birdsong, or even a vintage record playing in the background sets the scene. An afternoon tea should feel calm, joyful, and just a little indulgent.’

Enjoy Every Crumb

‘Don’t spend the entire time in the kitchen. Forward planning is essential, a stressed host will not put your guests at ease. Therefore, prepare as much as you can in advance so you’re free to enjoy the tea, the laughter, and your lovely guests. That’s the true spirit of it all.’

The Fiona Cairns Signature Afternoon Tea is available from Ocado and Fenwick from 11 August, ocado.com