Cream tea is a simple form of afternoon tea that consists of just one course with four main components. This charming tea time experience is even better when shared with family or friends. Let me guide you through the simple steps to make and enjoy cream tea at home!
What is Cream Tea?
Cream tea is a traditional British tea time that typically consists of a pot of tea and freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and jam.
It is different from afternoon tea as it is just one course, not three. There are no savouries or sweets involved in cream tea.
The exact origin of cream tea is uncertain, but it is believed to have started in the 11th century. It can be traced back to the West Country of England, specifically Devon and Cornwall.
Cream Tea at Home
What You Will Need
To prepare a delicious cream tea at home, you will need the following:
Scones
Traditionally, plain English style scones are served for this type of tea service as they are perfect with clotted cream and jam.
The scones can have dried currants or other fruits but simple is best here. Avoid using more American style scones like triple chocolate, raspberry, etc.
Scones should be freshly baked and served warm. You can purchase scones for cream tea at a bakery or prepare them at home following this recipe.
Clotted Cream
Clotted cream is a quintessential component of a classic British cream tea.
Originating from the United Kingdom, particularly Devon and Cornwall, it is made by slowly heating heavy cream then allowing it to cool and thicken. The result is a rich and velvety thick cream that is delicious on scones.
You can purchase clotted cream online or in-stores. However, depending where you live it may not be very easy to find in-stores. Check out this option to order online.
If you can’t find it easily, another option is to make your own clotted cream at home. It can be cheaper to make it from scratch and it’s not difficult but does require some patience.
Jam
The next spread that is served with freshly baked scones is jam. Strawberry jam is traditional for cream tea but other jam varieties can be used, too.
The sweet fruit flavours from jam pairs well with the contrasting flavours from the rich clotted cream.
Tea
The tea options at a cream tea service are similar to those at afternoon tea.
Any type of tea is good – black, green, white, oolong, puerh or herbal. Loose leaf tea or tea bags can be used.
If you’d like something bold, malty and great with milk, prepare Assam black tea or a classic like Earl Grey tea. For something creamy, try a Milk Oolong. If caffeine-free is a must, go for chamomile or rooibos.
For an authentic experience, the tea should be served in a teapot and with teacups. This is your time to use the fancy teaware!
Optionals
Milk and sugar should also be served in case anyone would like to use either in their cup of tea.
Lemon curd isn’t a traditional scone accompaniment for this tea service but can be served as well if preferred. The same can be said for butter.
How to Serve
You can prepare and serve it at home for one, two or more. To make the perfect cream tea, follow these steps:
- Purchase or prepare English style scones, clotted cream and jam.
- Set the tea table with small plates, knives and teaspoons — one per person. Add extra elements like flowers or table runners, if desired.
- Serve the warm scones on a plate with the clotted cream and jam in small serving bowls.
- Warm the teapot prior to steeping tea of choice. Remove loose leaf tea or tea bags before placing the teapot on the table so the tea does not oversteep. Place tea cups at the table with sugar and milk set on the side.
- Enjoy the this lovely tea time with family or friends!
If you’d like to follow proper tea etiquette, brush up on them here.
How to Eat a Scone
Although it is not mandatory, there is a proper way to eat a scone.
To eat a scone with proper etiquette, break it in half by hand and add a dollop of clotted cream and jam. A knife is only used for the scone accompaniments, not for cutting the scone.
Avoid making a scone sandwich. Instead, enjoy the scone bite by bite.
Cream or Jam first?
There’s a popular debate on whether you should put cream or jam on your scone first. Guess what? It’s entirely up to your personal preferences!
In Cornwall, the jam is spread on the scone first, then the cream. It is the opposite in Devon — cream first, then jam. I like the Cornish way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of cream to use for cream tea?
Clotted cream is best for an authentic experience. Although, it can be tricky finding the real stuff in North America and sometimes very expensive when found.
Some tea rooms in North America may use fake versions instead (ie. whipped cream) if there are no other options. It’s definitely not the same thing though!
Can you make clotted cream at home?
Yes, follow this Tasting Table recipe to make it at home.
What is the classic recipe for scones to accompany a cream tea?
This Classic English Scone recipe is great as the scones are soft and airy. They are my absolute favourite for a classic recipe.
What are the typical accompaniments for an authentic English cream tea?
Pot of tea, warm scones, clotted cream and jam are the typical accompaniments.
Which variety of jam is preferred when serving a cream tea?
Strawberry jam is commonly served but other varieties of jam can be used (ie. raspberry jam).