Classic British Cream Tea

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2/3 cup (160ml) whole milk 2/3 cup (160ml) whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Clotted cream, for serving Clotted cream, for serving
• Strawberry jam, for serving Strawberry jam, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 16g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 39g, 10g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. 3.
   Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, combine the milk and vanilla extract. Gradually pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. 5.
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
6. 6.
   Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 2.5 cm (1 inch). Using a round cookie cutter, cut out scones and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. 7.
   Bake the scones for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
8. 8.
   Allow the scones to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with clotted cream and strawberry jam.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is cold and cubed to achieve a flaky texture in the scones.
• Clotted cream — Use high-quality clotted cream for the best flavor and texture.
• Strawberry jam — Opt for a strawberry jam with chunks of fruit for added texture and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra fluffiness, handle the dough as little as possible.
• Serve the scones warm for the best texture and taste.
• Experiment with different flavors of jam, such as raspberry or blackberry, for variety.
• If clotted cream is not available, whipped cream can be used as a substitute.
• Enjoy the Cream Tea with a pot of freshly brewed English Breakfast tea for an authentic experience.

Serving advice

Serve the Cream Tea on a tiered cake stand for an elegant presentation. Place the warm scones in the center, with small bowls of clotted cream and strawberry jam on either side. Accompany it with a pot of freshly brewed tea and delicate tea cups.

Presentation advice

Arrange the scones on a decorative plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Place a dollop of clotted cream on top of each scone and a spoonful of strawberry jam beside it. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.