June is a special month for Devon, with lots of National weeks & celebrations. From National Picnic Week, Father’s Day, and of course, Devon Day to National Cream Tea day, there are no shortage of ways to celebrate all things Devon here in Ottery St Mary. So, while there’s lots to talk about and enjoy, we’re focusing on the classic Devonshire Cream Tea and the correct etiquette for consuming one.
We take our Cream Tea seriously here in Ottery St Mary, being a part of Devon. The age old ‘debate’ between us and Cornwall means Cream Teas are an important part of Devonshire’s culture, especially when it comes to how you serve your scones. A delightful combination of freshly brewed tea, or a glass of champagne or Prosecco, warm scones, clotted cream, and strawberry jam, creating a heavenly experience for food enthusiasts and tea lovers alike.
At the heart of a Devon cream tea are the scones. While various flavours are available, such as plain, fruit, or cheese, the classic plain scone is the most common choice with a Cream tea. For the best results, twist your scone to create two halves, rather than cutting or pulling it apart.
Clotted cream is an essential component of a Devon cream tea. Clotted cream is generously spread on the split scone and it’s important to remember than when in Devon, Cream always goes first! The final touch is the strawberry jam, which adds a burst of fruity sweetness to the cream tea. The combination of the scone, clotted cream, and jam creates a perfect balance of flavours and textures.
When enjoying a Devon cream tea, the traditional method is to first split the scone in half, applying a generous layer of clotted cream to each half, and then topping it off with a dollop of strawberry jam. The scone is then paired with a hot pot of freshly brewed tea, such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast, or bubbly as mentioned earlier, to complete the experience.
Devon cream tea is not only a delightful treat but also a social occasion. The combination of warm scones, velvety clotted cream, and sweet strawberry jam, accompanied by a comforting cup of tea, creates a culinary experience that is both satisfying and comforting. It is a true British indulgence that should not be missed. So make sure you indulge this National Cream Tea day here in East Devon and Ottery St Mary, and remember, #CreamFirst, always.
