Description
Creamy British clotted cream elevates simple scones with its luxurious, rich texture straight from Cornwall’s dairy tradition. Rich dairy lovers will savor this classic spread that turns ordinary moments into delightful culinary experiences you can easily craft at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Dairy Base:
- 2 liters / 8 cups heavy cream (48% fat content)
- 1/2 liter / 2 cups whole milk
Flavoring:
- 1 pinch sea salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Optional Serving Accompaniments:
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional)
- 1 fresh strawberry (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Select a heavy-bottomed, wide stainless steel pan that allows cream to spread in a shallow layer, ensuring optimal heat distribution.
- Pour heavy cream and whole milk into the pan, maintaining a gentle, even surface without creating bubbles or agitation.
- Preheat oven to an ultra-low 180°F (82°C), which provides consistent, gentle heating for cream transformation.
- Cover the pan tightly with a clean, non-terry cloth kitchen towel, then seal with aluminum foil to prevent moisture escape.
- Place the covered pan in the preheated oven and allow cream to slowly develop for 10-12 hours, preferably overnight, without disturbing.
- Remove pan from oven carefully, observing a thick, golden skin that has formed across the cream’s surface.
- Allow cream to cool at room temperature for approximately 1-2 hours until it reaches a comfortable handling temperature.
- Gently transfer the clotted cream layer using a slotted spoon, separating the rich, thick upper portion from the remaining liquid.
- Optional: Fold in sea salt and vanilla extract for enhanced flavor complexity.
- Transfer clotted cream to a clean storage container, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for 2-3 hours to further set and develop a firmer consistency.
- When serving, dust with powdered sugar and garnish with a fresh strawberry for an elegant presentation.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and texture.
Notes
- Cream Selection Matters: Choose the highest fat content cream (at least 36%) for the richest, most luxurious clotted cream texture.
- Low and Slow Technique: Never rush the cooking process; gentle, consistent heat is crucial for developing the signature golden skin and creamy consistency.
- Temperature Precision: Use an oven thermometer to ensure exact 180°F, as even slight temperature variations can dramatically impact the final result.
- Storage Wisdom: Always use a clean, airtight container and store in the coldest part of the refrigerator to maximize freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 hours
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 306
- Sugar: 1.5 g
- Sodium: 0.1 g
- Fat: 33 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3.5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2.5 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg