Jam or cream first? The great scone debate

Looking forward to enjoying a scone this bank holiday? Chances are you'll encounter the classic conundrum when indulging in a scrumptious cream tea: should you put jam or clotted cream on your scone first? It may seem like a trifling matter, but it has sparked passionate debates and divided opinions for years. In this blog, we'll dig into the arguments on both sides and try to settle the age-old question once and for all: should it be jam first or cream first on your scone with Co-op cream tea?

The Case for Jam First

Those who argue for spreading jam on the scone before the cream have some jolly good reasons to back their preference. Here are a few:

Tradition: According to some historical accounts, the tradition of putting jam first on a scone dates back to the 11th century in Devon, England. The idea was that jam was cheaper and more readily available than cream, so it made sense to slather it on the scone before adding a dollop of precious cream on top.

Spreading Ease: Jam is usually smoother and more spreadable than clotted cream, which can be thick and lumpy. Spreading jam first creates a smooth base for the cream to be added on top, making it easier to spread and ensuring an even distribution of toppings.

Sweetness Balance: Jam first proponents argue that spreading it on the scone before the cream allows the sweetness of the jam to shine through. The jam acts as a base layer, providing a burst of flavour and balancing out the richness of the cream.

The Case for Cream First

On the other side of the debate, those who argue for spreading cream on the scone before the jam also have some compelling points. Here are a few:

Cream as a "Butter": Some argue that clotted cream, with its thick and creamy texture, is more akin to butter than a traditional spread. In this view, spreading cream first is similar to buttering a slice of bread before adding jam, a practice that is widely accepted in many cultures.

Cream Protection: Cream aficionados argue that spreading cream first creates a protective barrier that prevents the scone from becoming soggy. The cream acts as a barrier, keeping the scone moist while preserving its crumbly texture.

Presentation: From an aesthetic perspective, some argue that spreading cream first creates a visually appealing look. The cream serves as a canvas for the vibrant color of the jam, creating a visually pleasing contrast that can be appealing to the eye, especially for those who enjoy food presentation.

So, What's the Verdict?

As with many food debates, the answer ultimately comes down to personal preference. There's no right or wrong way to enjoy your scone with cream tea, and both methods have their merits. Some may prefer the tradition and ease of spreading jam first, while others may enjoy the creamy protection and aesthetic appeal of cream first.

In the end, the most important thing is to enjoy your cream tea in a way that brings you the most joy. Whether you choose to spread jam first or cream first on your scone, take a moment to relish the flavours, textures, and rich culinary heritage that comes with this beloved British tradition. And who knows, you may even find yourself switching sides or creating your own unique twist on the classic cream tea experience.

Don't forget to pop into your local East of England Co-op store to grab our exclusive £5 cream tea bundle with Co-op Irresistible Sultuna Scones, Fruity Strawberry Conserve and Rodda's Clotted Cream.