British Clotted Cream

Name: British Clotted Cream
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 720 min
Total time: 725 min
Ingredients: 1 quart heavy cream (preferably unpasteurized)

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By: Maria
Posted: 03/15/2025

British Clotted Cream is a thick, rich, and luxurious cream with a slightly nutty, buttery flavor. Traditionally served with scones, jam, and afternoon tea, this classic English spread is a must-try for anyone who loves decadent, creamy textures. While it may seem fancy, making homemade clotted cream is surprisingly simple—all you need is one ingredient and time!

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Ingredients

4 cups (1 liter) heavy whipping cream (must be at least 36% fat, preferably not ultra-pasteurized)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°F (82°C).
Pour the heavy cream into a shallow, oven-safe dish (a glass or ceramic dish is best).
Ensure the cream is spread evenly and is about 1-2 inches deep.

Step 2: Slow Bake the Cream

Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 10-12 hours (overnight works well).
The cream will develop a golden-yellow crust on top—this is the clotted cream forming.

Step 3: Cool and Chill

Remove from the oven and let the dish cool at room temperature for 1-2 hours.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours (or overnight).

Step 4: Separate the Clotted Cream

After chilling, gently skim the thick clotted cream from the top and transfer it to a jar.
Stir slightly if needed for a creamier texture, but leave some lumps for authenticity.
The remaining liquid cream can be used for baking or coffee.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Enjoy clotted cream spread over warm scones, toast, or fresh fruit.

Notes

Use the right cream: Avoid ultra-pasteurized cream—it won’t clot properly.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Clotted cream can be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge before using.

Why This Recipe Works

The low, slow baking process allows the cream to separate, creating a thick, luscious top layer with a rich, buttery taste that’s perfect for traditional British tea-time treats.

Conclusion

Making British Clotted Cream at home is easy and rewarding, giving you a delicious, creamy topping for your favorite baked goods. Whether you’re serving it with classic scones and jam or using it as a luxurious spread, this homemade version is a must-try! Try it today and bring a taste of England to your kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make clotted cream ahead of time, and how should I store it?

Yes, clotted cream is excellent for making ahead. After baking and cooling, refrigerate the clotted cream for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, to fully set. Once separated from the liquid, store the clotted cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

What if I can’t find heavy whipping cream with at least 36% fat? Are there any substitutes?

The fat content is crucial for proper clotting. If you can’t find heavy whipping cream with at least 36% fat, look for the highest fat content available. Avoid ultra-pasteurized cream as it will not clot well. Using a lower fat cream will result in a less thick and less clotted cream, and the process may not work at all. Unfortunately, there are no good substitutes for heavy whipping cream in this recipe.

How do I know when the clotted cream is perfectly baked?

The clotted cream is ready when it has developed a golden-yellow crust on top. This usually takes 10-12 hours in a 180°F (82°C) oven. The cream should be set and slightly thickened. The liquid beneath the crust will remain, but the top layer will be noticeably clotted and firm.

Can I double or scale up this clotted cream recipe?

Yes, you can scale up the recipe, but you’ll need a larger, oven-safe dish to accommodate the increased volume of cream. Double or triple the amount of heavy cream, but keep the baking time consistent at 10-12 hours at 180°F (82°C). Ensure the cream is spread evenly in the dish, about 1-2 inches deep. Adjust cooling and chilling times proportionally if necessary.

Does clotted cream have any nutritional benefits?

Clotted cream is primarily a source of fat and provides calories. The heavy cream used in the recipe contains vitamins A and D, which are fat-soluble vitamins. It also contains calcium. However, due to its high fat content, clotted cream should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.