Have you ever wondered how to recreate the velvety, golden clotted cream served alongside scones at British tea rooms? This indulgent dairy delight, with its rich texture and subtle sweetness, has been a staple of Devonshire cream teas for centuries. But what if you could make it at home? Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a curious foodie, mastering homemade clotted cream is simpler than you think.
Clotted cream, also known as Devonshire cream, is created by gently heating full-fat cream to form a thick, buttery layer. Unlike whipped cream, it develops a unique “clot” texture through slow baking or mixing. Below, I wrote two methods the traditional oven technique and a quicker whipped version to suit your time and kitchen tools.
Traditional Oven-Baked Clotted Cream
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream (minimum 35% fat)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 175°F (80°C). Use a low temperature to avoid scorching .
- Pour the cream into a shallow glass or ceramic baking dish (a pie plate works well).
- Bake uncovered for 12 hours. The cream will form a golden skin on top as it slowly heats .
- Cool the dish at room temperature for 1–2 hours, then refrigerate overnight. This allows the cream to thicken and develop its signature texture .
- Scoop off the thick layer (the clotted cream) and transfer it to a jar. Discard the thin liquid underneath or save it for baking.
Servings: Makes about 1 cup (240ml).
Dish Type: Dessert topping or spread.
Prep Time: 5 minutes.
Cook Time: 12 hours.
Total Time: 12 hours + cooling.
Nutrition (per tablespoon): ~50 calories, 5g fat, 0g protein.
Dietary Info: Vegetarian (contains dairy).
Equipment: Oven-safe dish, refrigerator.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of salt or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.
- Infuse the cream with vanilla beans or citrus zest during baking.
Quick Whipped Clotted Cream
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/3 cup (80ml) sour cream or crème fraîche
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- Whip the heavy cream using a mixer until stiff peaks form .
- Fold in the sour cream (or crème fraîche) and sugar gently to avoid deflating the mixture .
- Chill for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Servings: Makes ~1 ½ cups (360ml).
Dish Type: Dessert topping or spread.
Prep Time: 10 minutes.
Cook Time: 0 minutes.
Total Time: 10 minutes + chilling.
Nutrition (per tablespoon): ~45 calories, 4g fat, 0.5g protein.
Dietary Info: Vegetarian (contains dairy).
Equipment: Electric mixer, mixing bowl.
Variations:
- Substitute mascarpone for sour cream for a richer taste .
- Add lemon zest or a splash of vanilla extract for a citrusy twist.
Some Popular Uses for Homemade Clotted Cream
Here are creative ways to enjoy it:
- Classic Teatime Pairings: Spread it thickly on warm scones with strawberry jam, or slather it on crumpets, muffins, and buttery croissants for an indulgent breakfast or afternoon treat.
- Baking Boost: Substitute butter or regular cream in recipes. Add it to scone dough, cake batters, or cupcake mixes for a richer texture, or bake it into luxurious shortbread for a melt-in-your-mouth experience .
- Dessert Enhancer: Swirl clotted cream into rice pudding, layer it in parfaits with fresh berries, or top apple crumbles and warm pies for a velvety finish. For a decadent twist, whip it into chocolate truffles or fudge.
- Savory Surprises: Stir it into mashed potatoes, soups, or risottos for added creaminess, or pair it with roasted meats like lamb raan for a balance of richness and tang .
- Creative Twists: Experiment with clotted cream in cocktails like a Cornish-inspired gin infusion or freeze it into ice cream for a uniquely smooth dessert.
FAQs
Is clotted cream unhealthy?
Clotted cream has about 55% fat, mostly saturated which may raise cholesterol and heart disease risk if consumed excessively. However, it contains vitamins A, D, K2, and calcium, supporting bone and immune health. It’s rich and indulgent but fine in moderation as part of a balanced diet, not a daily habit.
Is clotted cream just whipped cream?
No, clotted cream is thicker and richer, made by slowly heating cream to form a golden crust, with a nutty flavor. Whipped cream is lighter and airier.
How long can clotted cream be kept?
It lasts up to a week in the fridge in an airtight container. Toss it if it smells off or grows mold.
What is the difference between clotted cream and normal cream?
Clotted cream is heated slowly to become thick and spreadable with a golden crust. Normal cream (like heavy cream) is liquid and not clotted.
Who invented clotted cream?
No one knows exactly, but it’s from southwest England (Devon and Cornwall), likely created centuries ago to preserve cream in dairy-rich areas.
Does clotted cream smell?
It has a mild, creamy aroma, not overpowering, similar to fresh dairy.
What to eat with clotted cream?
It’s great with scones and jam (cream tea), fresh berries, pies, trifles, sauces, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles.
How do Brits eat clotted cream?
Traditionally spread on scones with jam during afternoon tea, often paired with black tea
Can clotted cream be unrefrigerated?
No. It requires refrigeration to prevent spoilage. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods.