Silky Smooth Clotted Cream a Taste of Cornwall at Home

How To Make Authentic British Clotted Cream Easy Recipe

By Evelyn ThatcherOctober 3, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a taste of proper Cornwall? Have you ever wondered How To Make Authentic British clotted cream at home? This recipe unlocks that creamy, dreamy goodness. It has that unmistakable golden crust.

Brief Overview

Clotted cream hails from Devon and Cornwall. It is a traditional part of a British cream tea. This clotted cream recipe is medium difficulty and takes about 12- 24 hours.

You'll get around 8-12 servings.

Main Benefits

This Cornish clotted cream is rich in flavor and decadent. Serve it at your next afternoon tea party. What makes it special? You are creating a little piece of British culture in your kitchen!

Okay, right then, let's get down to brass tacks and sort out these , shall we?

Gather Your Bits

You'll need just one key ingredient. Grab 4 cups of heavy cream. It must have at least 35% milk fat.

If you can find unpasteurized, even better! Think about double cream substitute , we have options.

The Secret is Slow

Now, you can choose your weapon. An oven or a slow cooker. Either works. The key is very low heat.

Slow cooking develops the flavor. I had trouble finding the right temperature at first. Honestly, you just need patience!

Considering the clotted cream recipe, we need terms that capture the essence of Britishness, authenticity, and the cooking process. Now you know, we are using a slow cooker clotted cream to develop the flavor!

Slow Cooker vs. Oven

For the oven, heat it to the lowest setting possible. Around 170° F/ 77° C is ideal. For the slow cooker, use the low setting.

That is it!. Remember low and slow is key for this Authentic Clotted Cream .

Do Not Stir!

Pour the cream into your dish or slow cooker. Do not stir it. Just let it sit undisturbed. This is crucial!.

Seriously, resist the urge. Stirring messes everything up. Let that beautiful crust form.

Time to Wait

Cook for 12- 24 hours. Check after 12 hours. You want a thick, wrinkly, golden crust. The longer it cooks, the richer it gets.

I usually let mine go for about 18 hours. Honestly, the hardest part is the waiting!

Cool and Chill

Gently remove from heat. Let it cool completely at room temperature. Then, cover it and chill in the fridge. Leave it overnight.

This allows it to fully set. You'll need at least 8 hours.

Harvest Time

Carefully scoop the thick clotted cream. Use a slotted spoon or spatula. Leave the thinner liquid behind. That liquid is called whey.

Don't toss it! It's great for baking. Use it to make best scones for clotted cream .

A Taste of Home

Serve your homemade clotted cream with warm scones and jam. It's the perfect British cream tea recipe . Or dollop it on desserts. Even spread it on smoked salmon. It's posh, innit?

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!

Okay, right then, let's get down to brass tacks and sort out the ingredients for our clotted cream recipe . We're making proper, authentic clotted cream , none of that fake stuff.

Honestly, it's easier than you think.

Main Ingredients

We only need one ingredient. That's it!

4 cups (950ml) Heavy Cream: Make sure it has at least 35% milk fat. Even better if you can find the proper Cornish cream that's unpasteurized. Trust me, the quality of your cream is everything! If you're aiming for authentic clotted cream , don't skimp.

Seasoning Notes: Keep it Simple!

You might be thinking, seasoning for cream? Nah. This is all about the natural flavor. Some people like to add a vanilla bean. However, that changes the Cornish clotted cream flavour profile.

Equipment Needed

Right, now for the kit. You won't need much, thankfully.

Oven OR Slow Cooker: Your call. Both will work.
Oven safe Dish: A Pyrex dish works great.
Spoon: For scooping.
Refrigerator: For chilling.
Slotted Spoon or Spatula: For carefully lifting the cream.

Don't panic if you haven't got fancy gear. A baking dish will do. You can use it as a double cream substitute by whipping it

How To Make Authentic British Clotted Cream? It's all about using good ingredients and letting the heat do its thing.

I remember the first time I tried to make clotted cream, oh my gosh, it was a disaster! I used the wrong kind of cream, and it was a total mess.

My British Cream Tea Recipe was ruined!. But don't worry, I've learned from my mistakes, and I'm here to help you avoid them.

Now, let's get started and make some homemade clotted cream !

Let's Talk Clotted Cream: From My Kitchen to Yours

Okay, right then, let's get down to brass tacks and sort out these , shall we? Making proper clotted cream can seem daunting.

Honestly, it's easier than you think. I'm going to show you How To Make Authentic British clotted cream, fit for any afternoon tea.

My nan used to make it, and now I do too!

Prep Steps: Let's Get Organized

First, you'll need your 4 cups (950ml) Heavy Cream . This is essential, so don't skimp! We are aiming for that Cornish Clotted Cream texture.

Pour that lovely cream into your dish, whether it's your oven dish or slow cooker, but whatever you do, don't stir it! This helps with the perfect crust and stops a mess.

It only takes 5 minutes to prep. It's important to plan your time as it requires 12- 24 hours to cook.

step-by-step: Creamy Goodness Awaits

Choose your weapon: oven or slow cooker.
Pour the heavy cream into your dish. Remember: No stirring!
Oven Method: Heat to a low 170° F/ 77° C . Bake for 12- 24 hours .
Slow Cooker Method: Set to "low". Cook for 12- 24 hours .
Cool completely at room temperature. Then chill in the fridge for at least 8 hours .
Scoop out the thick, golden layer. Ta-da! You have your Authentic Clotted Cream .

Pro Tips: Secrets from a Seasoned Cook

Low and slow is key. Seriously, don't rush it. The lower, the better. Avoid the common mistake to stirring, just.

Let. it. be. To make it the next day, remember, you can leave your mixture overnight. I like to add vanilla sometimes, for that extra touch.

Now you know how to make clotted cream at home ! Enjoy it with the best scones for clotted cream !

Make Your Very Own Delicious British Cream Tea Recipe

Imagine spreading your Homemade Clotted Cream on a warm scone. Add a dollop of your favorite jam. What's the tea? You have a Devon Cream Tea or a British Cream Tea Recipe ! Seriously, Clotted Cream Recipe is a great start to the week.

Even if you are trying to save on money for double cream substitute . Remember to use the leftover whey for soups and scones! So, there you have it.

How To Make Authentic British clotted cream. It's easier than you think!

Recipe Notes: Getting Clotted Cream Just Right

Okay, right then, let's get down to brass tacks and sort out these How To Make Authentic British clotted cream recipe notes, shall we? Trust me, these little tips make a huge difference.

Making Homemade Clotted Cream might seem intimidating, but it's totally doable with a bit of know how.

Lovely Serving Suggestions

Plating and presentation ideas . I always think a simple dollop on a freshly baked scone looks best. A proper British Cream Tea Recipe isn't complete without it.

Honestly, just pile it high! Arrange your Best Scones for Clotted Cream around a pot of Cornish Clotted Cream and Strawberry jam, and you've got a classic.

Complementary sides or beverages . A strong cup of English Breakfast tea is essential . Maybe some fresh strawberries on the side too, if you're feeling fancy.

Storage Secrets

Refrigeration guidelines . Your Authentic Clotted Cream will happily sit in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure it's in an airtight container.

This prevents it from drying out or absorbing any weird fridge smells, you know?

Freezing options (if applicable) . Freezing clotted cream? Not really recommended. It can change the texture. It is always best when it is made fresh!

Reheating instructions . Clotted cream is best served cold, straight from the fridge. No need to reheat! Considering the clotted cream recipe, these capture the essence of Britishness, authenticity, and the cooking process.

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Fun Variations

Dietary Adaptations . Looking for a lighter version? Sadly, it's difficult to make a truly "light" clotted cream. Though this recipe tastes great using a Slow Cooker Clotted Cream variation.

Maybe try a Double Cream Substitute if you want to experiment, but it won't be quite the same. Seasonal ingredient swaps .

In the summer, I love adding a little lemon zest to the cream for a bit of zing. It just feels so fresh!

Nutrition Made Easy

Simplified nutrition information . Let's be real, clotted cream is a treat. It's high in fat, so enjoy in moderation. Key health benefits .

Okay, there aren't many health benefits, let's be honest. But it brings joy to people when enjoying a Devon Cream Tea , and that's gotta count for something, right?

There you go! Loads of info, loads of fun! Now you can make clotted cream at home. Seriously, it’s easier than you think. Enjoy, and don’t forget to share with your friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Alright, so how long exactly does it take to make proper clotted cream? I haven't got all day!

Patience, my friend, patience! While the prep is only 5 minutes, the cooking time is the real kicker. Expect it to take between 12 and 24 hours in either the oven or slow cooker, followed by at least 8 hours chilling in the fridge.

Think of it as a weekend project pop it in on Saturday morning and enjoy it with your Sunday scones!

Is it really crucial to use unpasteurized cream? My local Tesco only stocks the regular stuff.

Using unpasteurized cream will get you closer to that truly authentic Cornish flavour and texture, but don't fret if you can't find it. Good quality heavy cream with a minimum of 35% milk fat will still produce a delicious clotted cream. Just be sure to buy the freshest cream possible, as this makes all the difference!

How To Make Authentic British clotted cream if my oven's a bit temperamental? It runs a bit hot sometimes.

A temperamental oven can be a bit of a bother, can't it? The key is to use the absolute lowest temperature setting your oven has. If it still seems too hot, prop the oven door open just a crack to help regulate the heat.

Alternatively, the slow cooker method is your best bet in this situation as you can more accurately control the temperature and cook it low and slow for longer without burning.

How can I tell if my clotted cream is actually done? I don't want to muck it up!

You're looking for a thick, wrinkly, golden crust to form on top of the cream. The colour should be a beautiful creamy yellow, verging on golden. Gently prod the surface it should feel firm but still have some give. After chilling, it will firm up even more.

If it still looks too liquidy after the cooking time, give it a little longer.

Can I flavour my clotted cream? Fancy something a bit different, innit?

Absolutely! A classic addition is a split vanilla bean added to the cream before cooking subtle and oh-so-lovely. You could also try adding lemon or orange zest for a citrusy twist. Just be careful not to add anything too liquidy, as it can affect the texture.

And remember, less is more you want the flavour of the cream to still shine through.

How long does homemade clotted cream last, and what's the best way to store it?

Homemade clotted cream is best enjoyed fresh, but it will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it's properly chilled before storing it. You might notice some slight separation of the liquid (whey) after a few days; simply give it a gentle stir before serving.

It is not recommended to freeze your homemade clotted cream as this can affect the texture of the final product.