Welcome to an exploration of one of the most beloved traditions of the British Isles: cream tea. An essential part of British Afternoon Tea, cream tea is more than just a snack; it’s a cultural thing that represents regional pride, especially when it comes to Cornwall and Devon.
These two counties have engaged in a friendly but spirited rivalry over the “correct” way to enjoy this delightful dish. Yes, you read that right; the most popular British food, cream tea, is at the heart of an ongoing debate around scones, clotted cream, and jam. One of the best things to do in Newquay, Cornwall, is to savor authentic Cornish food. The stakes are high for the locals, whether in Cornwall or Devon!
The Origins and Traditions of Cornish Cream Tea
Cornish cream tea is a tradition deeply rooted in the rich culture of Cornwall. This culinary custom is more than just an afternoon delight; it embodies regional pride and historical significance. Let’s journey through its origins and traditions.
The history of Cornish cream tea can be traced back to Cornwall’s mining heritage. In the 19th century, Cornwall was globally renowned for its tin mines. Miners needed sustenance that would keep them energized during their laborious days underground. Enter the humble scone, an ideal blend of carbohydrates and fats. It was a portable, non-perishable, and, most importantly, a delicious solution.
As mining started to decline and tourism became more prominent in the 20th century, Cornish cream tea began to make its way from miners’ lunch pails to the tables of tearooms, eventually becoming synonymous with the idyllic Cornish countryside itself.
But what makes up a traditional Cornish cream tea? The star players are a scone (sometimes called a split in Cornwall), clotted cream, and strawberry jam.
The scone provides the base, a simple yet perfect canvas for the clotted cream and the bright burst of strawberry jam. Clotted cream is a velvety, thick cream that has been heated and cooled, resulting in a sumptuous layer of ‘clots’ or ‘clouts’ on the surface. It’s a Cornish culinary delight granted Protected Designation of Origin status by the European Union. And let’s not forget the jam, traditionally made from strawberries, offering that essential sweet tanginess that balances the richness of the cream.
Now, let’s talk about assembling a Cornish cream tea. In Cornwall, the clotted cream goes on the scone first, followed by a bit of strawberry jam. This is a point of contention, especially when compared to the Devon method, where the jam is spread first, followed by the cream. The Cornish method allows for a more harmonious mingling of flavors, letting the cream absorb into the scone and be topped by the jam’s fruity highlight.
As for historical tidbits, did you know that cream teas were once considered a luxury only enjoyed by the upper class? In Cornwall, however, it quickly became a treat for everyone, crossing social and economic boundaries. There’s also an age-old tale of Cornish fishermen who considered it bad luck to put the jam first, believing it would cause storms at sea!
The Heritage of Devon Cream Tea
Devon Cream Tea has its roots deeply anchored in the landscapes of Devon County. Imagine rolling green hills, dairy farms, and quaint cottages; it’s like stepping into a postcard. This setting makes for significant tourism and contributes to the quality of local dairy, a key ingredient in Devon cream tea. Clotted cream from Devon has a distinct richness, thanks to the county’s pastures where cows graze freely. No wonder Devon cream tea became a way for locals to showcase their high-quality dairy products.
So, what makes a Devon cream tea special? A traditional Devon cream tea has a fluffy scone, clotted cream, and raspberry jam. Unlike Cornish cream tea, which usually features strawberry jam, raspberry jam is often the star of a Devonshire serving. It’s brighter and more tart, offering a unique twist that complements the clotted cream and the tender crumb of the scone. And, of course, let’s pay attention to the clotted cream itself, often so thick you can stand a spoon in it!
Let’s discuss the serving method, where Devon Cream Tea sets itself apart. In Devon, you spread the jam first and then layer the clotted cream. This approach creates a delightful contrast in textures, with the jam serving as a fruity foundation and the cream as a rich crown. It’s a point of pride and distinction for Devonians, especially in the age-old debate with the Cornish about who does it ‘right.’
Now, did you know that Devon Cream Tea has quite a historical story? One of the earliest mentions dates back to the 11th century, in the monasteries of Devon, where it was served to workers who helped with renovations or repairs. It was a way of saying ‘thank you,’ offering a hearty serving of local produce. Also, according to local legend, if you dare to do ‘cream first,’ you’re defying centuries of tradition and might anger the Devonian cream tea gods! I’m just kidding, but locals take their cream tea traditions seriously.
The Cream Tea Debate: Cornwall vs. Devon
Now, let’s go to the Cream Tea Debate: a topic that turns friends into friendly foes and adds a sprinkle of playful rivalry to the English counties of Cornwall and Devon. It’s a culinary dispute that’s much more than a matter of taste—it’s about heritage, tradition, and regional pride.
The ongoing rivalry centers around the “correct” way to assemble and enjoy a cream tea, a delicious combination of scones, clotted cream, and jam. In Cornwall, it’s clotted cream first, followed by jam, while in Devon, the jam is spread first, topped by the cream. The Cornish argue that their way allows the cream to soak into the scone, accentuated by the jam. Devonians, on the other hand, believe that their method provides a better contrast in textures, with the jam serving as a base for the cream.
You might be surprised at how seriously both sides take this. Local competitions, festivals, and surveys have been conducted to settle the dispute, all in good fun. One event dubbed the “Cream Tea Wars,” features chefs from both counties going spatula to spatula in a battle of culinary wit and skill. Whichever side you’re on, the communal spirit grows stronger each year. In a curious twist, the British supermarket chain Morrisons even once offered a “neutral” cream tea package to avoid taking sides in the debate!
Now, let’s sprinkle in some trivia. Did you know that cream tea was likely served in Devonian monasteries as early as the 11th century? Conversely, the European Union has granted Cornwall’s clotted cream Protected Designation of Origin status, acknowledging its unique regional characteristics. Both counties have historical claims to cream tea fame, and neither is willing to back down easily.
Where to Enjoy the Authentic Experience
If you’re a cream tea lover seeking to taste the authentic experience, there’s no better way than to head straight to the source: the counties of Cornwall and Devon. Both regions boast their selection of places to indulge in this English treat, steeped in local tradition and regional pride.
In Cornwall, one name that frequently comes up among cream tea connoisseurs is Miss V’s Vintage High Tea Room. Located in the beautiful Roseland Peninsula, this tea room offers more than delicious Cornish cream teas; it serves a slice of history. The tearoom resides in a WWI army hut, and stepping inside feels like a journey back in time. The traditional Cornish cream tea here features baked splits, dollops of clotted cream, and house-made strawberry jam. The experience is amplified by the antique tableware and nostalgic interior, making it an absolute must-visit.
Let’s focus now on Devon, a county that holds its own in the cream tea stakes. One highly recommended establishment is The Two Bridges Hotel, located in the heart of Dartmoor National Park. Not only do they serve up a traditional Devon cream tea with perfect fluffy scones and locally sourced raspberry jam, but the setting is also unparalleled. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, with traditional English decor. The sweeping views of Dartmoor’s landscape through the windows provide an added layer of enjoyment, making each bite feel like a tribute to Devon’s natural beauty.
And what’s a trip to Devon without visiting the famous Tea on the Green? This cafe is located in Exeter and has won accolades for its authentic Devon cream teas. The establishment is set in a 16th-century building, giving it significant historical charm. As you spread raspberry jam on your scone, it’s impossible not to ponder all the people who’ve sat in that same space across the centuries, probably arguing about the same cream-and-jam debate we all love today!
A Gastronomic Adventure: Trying Both Cream Teas
If you find yourself interested in the cream tea culture of England, why stop at choosing sides in the Cornwall vs. Devon rivalry? Instead, go on a gastronomic adventure that lets you appreciate both versions of this English delight. Trust me, it’s a journey worth taking for the palate and cultural enlightenment.
Starting with Cornwall, a Cornish cream tea comes with what is known as a “split,” a soft, slightly sweet bread that’s distinct from the typical scone. Combine that with clotted cream, often made from rich Cornish milk, and you get an invitingly creamy texture. Top it off with strawberry jam, and the combination is heavenly. What sets Cornish cream tea apart is the order—cream first, followed by jam. This layering style allows the cream to soak into the bread, lending its luxurious moistness to the split.
In contrast, Devon cream tea opts for a more crumbly yet moist scone, providing a different mouthfeel altogether. And instead of strawberry jam, Devon usually serves raspberry jam—a brighter, slightly tart counterpoint to the ultra-rich clotted cream. It’s jam first, then cream, a tradition emphasizing contrasting textures. The jam is a barrier, ensuring each component retains its unique texture and flavor.
Did you know that the “Cream Tea Society” officially exists? Founded by the well-known brands Rodda’s Cornish Clotted Cream and Tiptree Jam, it promotes the joy of cream tea and even sponsors National Cream Tea Day on the last Friday of June. And get this: the Guinness World Record for the largest cream tea party was set in July 2018, with 978 people enjoying this cherished tradition together. Can you imagine the heated debates that must’ve been taking place at those tables?
To truly grasp the depth of this cherished English tradition, I wholeheartedly recommend trying both Cornish and Devon cream teas. It’s like reading two different yet equally compelling novels in the same universe. Each offers a unique blend of tastes and textures that reflect their respective regions while capturing the essence of what makes cream tea a cornerstone of English gastronomy. So, forget the rivalry momentarily and dive fork-first into both worlds—you won’t regret it.
The Perfect Cream Tea at Home
When it comes to cream tea, the charm of Cornwall’s cozy tea rooms and Devon’s rustic cafes is undeniable. But what if you could recreate this delightful experience right in the comfort of your own home? That’s right; today, we’re diving into crafting the perfect cream tea without stepping outside your door.
You’ll first need to perfect your scones to bring the Cornish or Devon cream tea experience to life. A basic scone recipe usually requires flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, butter, and milk. Mix these dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them, then roll out the dough and cut it into rounds. Bake at 220°C (425°F) for about 12-15 minutes; voila, you have the base for your cream tea.
Now, let’s talk clotted cream. Making it at home can be a rewarding experience. All you’ll need is heavy cream with a high-fat content. Pour it into a shallow dish and bake at a low temperature (about 80°C or 180°F) for 12 hours until a golden crust forms. Once it cools, you can easily scrape off the thick, luscious cream.
Choosing quality jam is crucial. For a traditional Cornish experience, go for strawberry jam. If you’re aiming for Devon authenticity, raspberry jam is your choice. Regardless of the flavor, opt for a jam rich in fruit content with minimal added sugars and preservatives.
Now, for the fun part—hosting your cream tea-themed gathering. Why not make it a Cream Tea Duel? Invite friends or family to prepare scones and bring their preferred jams and creams. Please set up a tasting station where everyone can layer their Cornish or Devon-style scones. You can even print out fun “voting cards” for everyone to vote on, which they prefer, to add a friendly competition vibe to the event.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey, it’s clear that Cornish and Devon cream teas offer unique flavors and textures. Whether you’re a cream-first or jam-first person, the essence of this rivalry is purely in good spirits, adding an extra layer of excitement and charm to the whole experience. So why not embark on your cream tea adventure? Explore the rich culinary history that Cornwall and Devon have to offer, and hey, feel free to make it a gastronomic duel among friends and family.
I invite you to share your cream tea preferences and experiences in the comments below. Are you team Cornwall or team Devon? Or perhaps you’re a diplomatic cream tea enthusiast who loves both? Either way, I want to know your insights! I’m sure it will add another delightful layer to this ongoing debate. And if you’ve enjoyed this journey through the land of cream teas, stay connected for more travel and culinary explorations on the blog.
So, the next time you’re enjoying a scone slathered with clotted cream and jam, remember that you’re participating in a long-standing British tradition with its own set of fun and whimsical rules. And in the spirit of friendly competition, may the best cream tea win!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Everything Zany
Travel Blog
Everything Zany Travel Blog exploring the UK and beyond. Sharing travel guides, tips, history, and culture. Our travel media brand is founded by travel and hotel industry expert – Ryazan Tristram, a Dual Citizen (British–Filipina) based in Birmingham, UK. Everything Zany is a reputable and award-winning travel blog. Our work and contributions have been featured in the Huffington Post, CNBC, Discovery Channel, GMA, Readers Digest, and Lonely Planet. Our mission is to build a great travel community and resource of travel tips, visas, and travel guides for travelers. Join us as we travel around the UK and beyond with a mission to share the best of the world.
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