Indulgence in a Jar: Clotted Cream and Lemon Curd

There’s something delightful about a warm, freshly baked scone topped with dollops of clotted cream and a generous spoonful of zesty lemon curd. The harmonious marriage of these two luscious condiments elevates the simplest of teatime pleasures into a culinary experience worth enjoying over and over. Today, let’s explore the origins, flavors, and proper etiquette of enjoying clotted cream and lemon curd, along with a delectable recipe from my kitchen to recreate this classic afternoon tea treat at home.

The Origins of Clotted Cream and Lemon Curd:

Clotted Cream: Clotted cream, also known as Devonshire or Cornish cream, is a rich, velvety dairy product with roots in the southwestern counties of England. The traditional method involves heating unpasteurized cow’s milk and cooling it slowly. The cream rises to the top and thickens to form a luxurious consistency. This indulgent cream has been a staple of British afternoon tea for centuries.

Lemon Curd: Conversely, lemon curd rings a burst of citrusy sunshine to your teatime spread. Its origins can be traced back to the early 19th century in England. Lemon curd is a delightful concoction made from fresh lemon juice, zest, sugar, butter, and eggs. This tangy-sweet preserve is the perfect counterpart to clotted cream’s richness, creating a balance of divine flavors.

How to Enjoy Clotted Cream and Lemon Curd:

The classic pairing of clotted cream and lemon curd is a quintessential part of the British afternoon tea tradition. To indulge in this treat, follow these simple steps:

1. Choose Your Scone: Begin with a freshly baked scone—plain, fruit-filled, or savory.
2. Warm It Up: If your scone is not fresh from the oven, warm it briefly to bring out its fluffiness. Avoid microwaving; instead, use an oven or toaster for a light toasting.
3. Clotted Cream First: The debate over whether to spread clotted cream or lemon curd first rages on, but tradition dictates that you distribute a generous amount of cream first. This velvety delight is a cushion for the tangy lemon curd, creating a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
4. Lemon Curd Second: Add a dollop of lemon curd on top. After the clotted cream, the bright, zesty notes of lemon curd cut through the richness of the cream, creating a symphony of flavors in your mouth.
5. Enjoy Slowly: Take a moment to appreciate the exquisite balance of creamy and zesty, rich and tangy, as you savor your scone bite by bite. Pair it with your favorite tea or coffee for the perfect teatime experience.

Recipe: Homemade Clotted Cream and Lemon Curd:

Here’s how to create your own clotted cream and lemon curd at home. Believe me, if I can do it, so can you.

Ingredients:

For Clotted Cream:

• 2 cups heavy cream (preferably not ultra-pasteurized)
• A pinch of salt

For Lemon Curd:

• Four large lemons were zested and juiced.
• 1 cup granulated sugar.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed.
• Four large eggs

Instructions:

For Clotted Cream:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Pour the heavy cream into a shallow, ovenproof dish and add a pinch of salt.
3. Place the dish in the oven for about 12 hours until a golden crust forms on top. Do not stir or disturb it during this time.
4. Once cooled, move the clotted cream layer from the top and transfer it to a clean jar. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.

For Lemon Curd:

1. Combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, and cubed butter. in a heatproof bowl
2. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) and stir until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and gradually add them to the lemon mixture, mixing constantly.
4. Continue to cook and mix until the lemon curd thickens, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before transferring it to a jar. Refrigerate until needed.

With your homemade clotted cream and lemon curd, you’re ready to embark on your teatime adventure, creating cherished moments of indulgence and delight. Whether enjoyed with family or friends, these simple pleasures remind us that sometimes the most exquisite experiences can be found in the ordinary.

So, treat yourself to the magic of homemade clotted cream and lemon curd, and let your senses revel in the beauty of a timeless tradition that warms the heart and nourishes the soul. After all, in every spoonful, there’s a bit of history, a dash of luxury, and a whole lot of love.

Let me know how you like it!