Cream Or Jam First On Scone

Scone-versation: Cream or Jam First?

Alright, gather 'round, tea lovers. We're diving into the great debate that's been dividing scones since, well, forever. Cream or jam first? Let's get this scone-versation started.

Let's Start with a History Lesson

Picture this: it's the 11th century, England. A monk named Benedictus is whipping up something he calls 'scones' for his fellow monks. Little did he know, his humble creation would spark a debate that would span centuries and cross oceans.

Fast forward to the 1920s, the debate reaches a fever pitch in Cornwall, England. The West Briton newspaper even runs a poll, with cream first winning by a landslide. But why the fuss? It's just cream and jam, right?

Cream First: The Cornish Way

In Cornwall, they're serious about their cream teas. So serious, they have a law (okay, it's more of a guideline) that says you must use clotted cream. And they're not shy about it. They pile it on first, followed by a dollop of strawberry jam.

Think of it like a cream fortress, protecting the jam from the scone's crumbly defenses. It's a hearty, indulgent approach that's not for the faint of heart (or waistline).

Jam or cream first? The great British scone debate put to the test

Jam First: The Devon Way

Now, let's cross the Tamar River to Devon. Here, they're just as passionate about their cream teas, but they have a different approach. They believe in a jam-first policy. A thin layer of jam, followed by a delicate dollop of cream.

It's like a jam sandwich, but make it fancy. They argue that this way, you get a balance of sweet and creamy in every bite. Plus, it's easier to handle, no cream oozing everywhere.

scone with jam and clotted cream – Andy Grimshaw

Practical Tips for the Indecisive

If you're still undecided, here are a few tips:

• Go Half and Half: Why choose when you can have both? Start with a thin layer of jam, then add a dollop of cream on top.
• Scone Flavor Matters: If your scone is sweet, jam first. If it's more savory, cream first.
• It's All About Texture: If you like a bit of crunch, jam first. If you prefer a softer bite, cream first.

Reflecting on the Great Debate

At the end of the day, it's not about who's right or wrong. It's about enjoying a moment, a cup of tea, and a scone. Whether you're a cream-first Cornish or a jam-first Devon, it's all about finding what brings you joy. And isn't that what life's all about?

So, next time you're at a cream tea, don't be afraid to ask for both. Or neither. It's your scone, your rules. Just remember, no matter how you have it, it's always best enjoyed with good company and a steaming cup of tea.