Scones have been a staple of British cuisine for centuries, and serving them correctly is an art form that requires attention to detail and a understanding of tradition. Whether you’re hosting a formal afternoon tea or a casual gathering with friends, serving scones in the correct way can elevate the experience and show respect for this beloved pastry.
A Brief History of Scones
Before we dive into the correct way to serve scones, it’s worth taking a brief look at their history. Scones originated in Scotland in the 15th century, where they were made with oats, flour, and cream. They were initially cooked on a griddle or in a frying pan and served as a snack or light meal. Over time, scones spread throughout the UK and became a popular treat at tea time.
The Rise of Afternoon Tea
In the 19th century, afternoon tea became a popular tradition in the UK, and scones played a starring role. Afternoon tea was a time for socializing and indulging in sweet and savory treats, and scones were the perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea. They were served with clotted cream and jam, and the tradition of serving scones at afternoon tea was born.
The Correct Way to Serve Scones
So, how do you serve scones correctly? Here are a few key things to keep in mind:
Warmth is Key
Scones should always be served warm, preferably straight from the oven. This ensures that they are soft and fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside. If you’re serving scones at a formal afternoon tea, consider using a warming tray or a thermos to keep them warm.
The Importance of Freshness
Freshness is also crucial when it comes to serving scones. Scones are best served on the day they are baked, as they tend to dry out quickly. If you’re serving scones at a gathering, consider baking them in batches to ensure that they are always fresh.
The Art of Pairing
Scones are often served with a variety of sweet and savory toppings, but the classic combination is clotted cream and jam. Clotted cream is a thick and creamy spread made from heavy cream, and it pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the jam. When serving scones with clotted cream and jam, be sure to provide a generous helping of each.
Other Popular Pairings
While clotted cream and jam is the classic combination, there are many other delicious pairings to try. Some popular options include:
- Lemon curd: a tangy and sweet spread made from lemons, sugar, and eggs
- Honey: a sweet and soothing spread made from the nectar of bees
- Cheddar cheese: a savory and tangy spread made from cow’s milk
The Etiquette of Serving Scones
When serving scones, there are a few key etiquette rules to keep in mind. Here are a few things to consider:
Use Your Fingers
When serving scones, it’s perfectly acceptable to use your fingers. In fact, it’s often preferred, as it allows guests to break off pieces of scone and dip them in their tea or topping of choice.
Provide a Variety of Toppings
When serving scones, be sure to provide a variety of toppings for guests to choose from. This can include clotted cream, jam, lemon curd, and honey, as well as savory options like cheddar cheese.
Use a Scone Stand or Basket
When serving scones, consider using a scone stand or basket to display them. This adds a touch of elegance to the table and makes it easy for guests to serve themselves.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When serving scones, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Don’t Overbake
One of the most common mistakes when serving scones is overbaking them. Scones should be lightly golden brown and still soft in the center. If they are overbaked, they can become dry and crumbly.
Don’t Forget the Jam
Another common mistake is forgetting to provide jam or other toppings. Scones are often served with a variety of sweet and savory toppings, so be sure to provide a few options for guests to choose from.
Conclusion
Serving scones is an art form that requires attention to detail and a understanding of tradition. By following a few simple rules and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a delicious and memorable experience for your guests. Whether you’re hosting a formal afternoon tea or a casual gathering with friends, serving scones correctly can elevate the experience and show respect for this beloved pastry.
| Scone Serving Tips | Description |
|---|---|
| Warmth is Key | Scones should always be served warm, preferably straight from the oven. |
| Freshness is Crucial | Scones are best served on the day they are baked, as they tend to dry out quickly. |
| Use Your Fingers | When serving scones, it’s perfectly acceptable to use your fingers. |
| Provide a Variety of Toppings | When serving scones, be sure to provide a variety of toppings for guests to choose from. |
By following these simple tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a delicious and memorable experience for your guests. Whether you’re hosting a formal afternoon tea or a casual gathering with friends, serving scones correctly can elevate the experience and show respect for this beloved pastry.
What is the traditional way to serve scones?
The traditional way to serve scones is with a steaming pot of tea, typically in the afternoon. This is often referred to as “afternoon tea.” The scones are usually served on a tiered serving dish, with the tea and other accompaniments such as clotted cream and jam on the side.
In a formal setting, the scones are typically served by a host or hostess, who will offer each guest a scone and then provide the tea and other accompaniments. In a more informal setting, the scones may be served buffet-style, with guests helping themselves to the scones and other offerings.
What is the proper etiquette for eating scones?
When eating scones, it is generally considered proper etiquette to break the scone in half with your fingers, rather than cutting it with a knife. This allows you to easily spread clotted cream and jam on each half of the scone.
Once you have broken the scone in half, you can then spread a small amount of clotted cream on one half, followed by a small amount of jam on top of the cream. You can then place the other half of the scone on top to create a sandwich. It is also acceptable to eat the scone in a more rustic manner, with the clotted cream and jam spread directly on the scone.
What is the difference between clotted cream and whipped cream?
Clotted cream and whipped cream are two distinct types of cream that are often used to top scones. Clotted cream is a thick and rich cream that is made by heating milk and then cooling it slowly, allowing the cream to rise to the surface and form a crust, or “clot.” Whipped cream, on the other hand, is made by whipping heavy cream until it becomes light and fluffy.
Clotted cream is traditionally used to top scones in the UK, particularly in the West Country, where it is a specialty. Whipped cream, on the other hand, is often used as a topping for desserts such as pies and cakes. While both types of cream can be used to top scones, clotted cream is generally considered to be the more traditional and authentic choice.
What type of jam is traditionally served with scones?
The type of jam that is traditionally served with scones is often a matter of personal preference, but in the UK, strawberry jam is a classic choice. Other popular flavors include raspberry and blackcurrant.
In a formal setting, the jam is often served in a small bowl or jar, and guests are invited to help themselves. In a more informal setting, the jam may be served in a larger bowl or jar, and guests may be encouraged to serve themselves.
Can I serve scones at any time of day?
While scones are traditionally served in the afternoon, there is no rule that says they can’t be served at other times of day. In fact, scones can be a delicious and satisfying breakfast or brunch option, particularly when served with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
If you’re planning to serve scones at a time other than afternoon tea, you may want to consider offering a variety of sweet and savory toppings to complement the scones. This can include items such as cheese, meats, and chutneys, in addition to the traditional clotted cream and jam.
How do I store leftover scones?
If you have leftover scones, it’s best to store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help to keep the scones fresh for several days.
You can also freeze leftover scones for up to two months. Simply place the scones in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to serve the scones, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Can I make scones ahead of time?
While scones are best served fresh, you can make them ahead of time and freeze them for later use. To do this, simply prepare the scone dough as you normally would, but instead of baking the scones, shape them into balls or patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Once the scones are frozen solid, you can transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to serve the scones, simply bake them in the oven or microwave until they’re golden brown and cooked through.