The Origins of the REAL Devonshire Cream Tea
Few culinary delights evoke a sense of tradition quite like the Devonshire cream tea. Picture it: a warm, freshly baked scone, slathered with a generous dollop of clotted cream, topped with a smear of rich strawberry jam, all accompanied by a steaming pot of tea. This quintessentially British treat is a beloved afternoon indulgence, but its origins are as rich and layered as the cream it celebrates.
A Slice of History
The roots of the Devonshire cream tea stretch back over a thousand years, steeped in the rich agricultural traditions of Devon, a county in the southwest of England. The history is intertwined with tales of monks, royalty, and the enduring appeal of simple, yet luxurious ingredients.
Monastic Beginnings
The earliest recorded mention of something resembling a cream tea dates back to the 11th century, specifically to the Benedictine Abbey in Tavistock, Devon. Following a Viking raid in 997 AD, the Abbey was left in ruins. According to local legend, the monks worked tirelessly to restore the abbey, and in doing so, they began serving bread with clotted cream and strawberry preserves to the labourers as a form of sustenance and thanks.
This practice of combining clotted cream with bread (and later, scones) spread throughout the region. The cream was particularly prized because of its richness and shelf life, which made it a staple in the diets of the Devonshire people.
Royal Influence
The tradition of cream tea gained further prominence in the 17th century, during the reign of Charles II. At that time, tea was becoming increasingly popular among the English elite, and it wasn’t long before the pairing of tea with scones, clotted cream, and jam became a fashionable indulgence.
Devon’s dairy farms, renowned for their rich cream, became the source of the key ingredient in this indulgent treat. Clotted cream, made by slowly heating full-fat cow’s milk and allowing it to cool, results in a thick, creamy layer that is quintessential to the Devonshire cream tea.
A Regional Rivalry
While Devon claims the original cream tea, the neighbouring county of Cornwall has its own version, sparking a friendly rivalry between the two. The key difference lies in the order of ingredients: in Devon, the tradition is to spread the clotted cream first, followed by the jam. In Cornwall, it’s the reverse, with jam first and cream on top. Both counties fiercely defend their method as the “correct” way, and this debate has become a part of the cream tea’s charm.
Here in Devon, we’re convinced that our way is the right way—and why wouldn’t it be? After all, clotted cream is the star of the show, so naturally, it deserves pride of place on the scone! Devonshire locals will tell you with a smile (and perhaps a wink) that it just tastes better with the cream on first. The cream first method isn’t just tradition; it’s practically a birthright!
The Devonshire cream tea has become more than just a regional specialty; it’s an experience that captures the essence of English tradition. Whether you’re indulging in one in the heart of Devon or recreating it at home, the history and heritage of this delightful treat add an extra layer of enjoyment.
The Devonshire cream tea is a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, quality ingredients combined with a rich history. From its monastic origins to its role in royal and regional traditions, the loved cream tea continues to delight and inspire, offering a taste of history with every bite. Whether you’re a purist who insists on cream first, or you prefer the Cornish way, there’s no denying that the Devonshire cream tea is a delicious slice of heritage that’s worth savouring.
And remember, when in Devon, there’s only one correct way to enjoy your cream tea: cream first, always!