🇬🇧☕️ Let's Celebrate British Cream Tea Day
Posted by Dani Noto on
When most people think of British tea traditions, they picture elegant teacups, fancy hats, and towering trays of treats.
But on June 26th, the spotlight shines on one of Britain’s most beloved, down-to-earth traditions: the Cream Tea!
What Exactly Is a Cream Tea?
Don't worry, the cream doesn't go into the tea!
A traditional British Cream Tea is a delightfully simple afternoon snack consisting of a freshly brewed pot of hot tea served with warm scones, rich clotted cream (or double cream), and sweet fruit preserves.
That’s it! No cucumber sandwiches. No towering dessert trays. Just tea and scones dressed in their finest toppings. (Of course, we Americans tend to do things a bit more elaborately by adding extra sweets, but that’s just us!)
The Great Scone Debate: There is a massive rivalry over whether to spread the jam or the cream first! In Cornwall, they swear by cream first, then jam. Down in Devon, it’s jam first, then cream. The debate has been going strong for generations, and tea lovers are still happily arguing about it today!
Cream Tea vs. Afternoon Tea vs. High Tea
- Cream Tea: This is a light, sweet, and simple afternoon treat featuring hot tea, warm scones, clotted cream, and fruit jam.
- Afternoon Tea: This is a more elaborate social affair, often served on tiered trays in the afternoon, featuring tea paired with finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, and cakes.
- High Tea: This was historically a hearty evening meal enjoyed by working families after a long day. It was a substantial supper served with tea that included items like meats, eggs, breads, and hot savory dishes.
Ironically, historical “High Tea” was the practical working-class dinner, while the elegant afternoon social gathering enjoyed by the upper classes was simply called “Afternoon Tea.” Over time, Americans adopted the name “High Tea” for fancy social events, completely changing its original meaning!
A Tradition Worth Savoring
The cream tea tradition dates back centuries and remains one of Britain’s most cherished daily rituals. There’s something wonderfully comforting about slowing down, pouring a favorite cup, and enjoying a warm scone topped with rich cream and sweet jam.
Whether you’re a devoted Anglophile or simply looking for a delicious excuse to enjoy another cup of tea, British Cream Tea Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate.
Stop by the shop or visit us online to stock up on the perfect traditional pairings, like our classic English Breakfast or our smooth, aromatic Earl Grey Creme de la Creme.
Brew a favorite pot, warm up a batch of scones, and enjoy a little taste of Britain right at home!
Cheers and happy sipping,
~Dani
Disclaimer: This newsletter is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. It is not to replace the advice of a qualified healthcare or medical professional.
