Afternoon Tea Scones With Strawberry Jam And Cream
The History of Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British tradition that dates back to the 19th century. It was originally created by the Duchess of Bedford, who found herself feeling hungry in the mid-afternoon. The solution? She started having tea and snacks brought to her room, and soon began inviting friends to join her. The idea of afternoon tea quickly caught on, and it has been a beloved British tradition ever since.
What Are Scones?
Scones are a type of pastry that originated in Scotland. They are typically made with flour, butter, sugar, and milk or cream. Scones can be sweet or savory, and are often served with jam and cream. In the UK, scones are a staple of afternoon tea, and are usually served alongside a pot of tea and other snacks like finger sandwiches and cakes.
Making Perfect Afternoon Tea Scones
If you want to make the perfect afternoon tea scones with strawberry jam and cream, you'll need to follow a few key steps.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Strawberry jam and whipped cream, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently a few times until it comes together into a ball.
- Pat the dough out into a circle that is about 1 inch thick.
- Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out circles of dough.
- Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
- Allow the scones to cool for a few minutes before serving with strawberry jam and whipped cream.
Tips for the Perfect Afternoon Tea Experience
While the scones are an important part of the afternoon tea experience, there are a few other things to keep in mind if you want to create the perfect ambiance.
- Use a proper tea set with a teapot, cups, and saucers.
- Choose a variety of teas to suit your guests' tastes.
- Set the table with a tablecloth, napkins, and fresh flowers.
- Offer a variety of snacks, including finger sandwiches, cakes, and pastries.
- Encourage conversation and relaxation with soft background music and comfortable seating.
In Conclusion
Afternoon tea scones with strawberry jam and cream are a classic British treat that are perfect for any occasion. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can impress your guests with your baking skills and create a memorable afternoon tea experience. So put the kettle on, invite your friends over, and enjoy a delicious and relaxing afternoon tea.