Cream or Jam First? National Cream Tea Day Rekindles Classic Debate

As National Cream Tea Day marks its 10th anniversary on 28th June 2024, the age-old debate has been reignited: cream or jam first?

Rodda’s, the iconic Cornish clotted cream brand and co-founder of National Cream Tea Day, has revealed that more than two fifths (44%) of Brits prefer jam first, while just over a third (32%) advocate for clotted cream first.

A Taste for the Unconventional

The new research from Rodda’s also highlights a growing trend towards experimental cream tea alternatives. Adventurous Brits are keen to try unique fillings such as cinnamon, sugar, and apple slices (21%), lemon curd (21%), and raspberry preserves with almond butter (20%). Savoury options like smoked salmon and cream cheese, and sweet chilli jam with cheddar are also gaining popularity. Almost two thirds of the population are eager to sample these new twists, with Gen-Z and Millennials leading the charge.

Cream Tea Culture and Pop Culture

The survey sheds light on the cultural associations of cream tea, particularly among younger Brits. Shows like Bridgerton, The Crown, and Downton Abbey, along with The Royals, have strengthened the association of cream tea with British tradition. Interestingly, more men than women have enjoyed a cream tea in the past month, challenging traditional gender-based stereotypes. Among the 75% who have indulged in cream tea, most did so within the last six months.

The data also reveals that men typically prefer sharing a cream tea with their significant other, while women favour close friends, followed by their mothers, with partners coming in third. Nearly 1 in 10 (9%) men would love to have cream tea with their nan, and 13% of people prefer to enjoy it solo, reflecting a growing trend in solo dining.

Celebrating a Decade of Cream Tea

National Cream Tea Day has grown into a cherished celebration across the UK, raising over £1.4 million for charities through the nation’s largest cream tea gatherings. To commemorate this milestone, Rodda’s has partnered with Michelin-starred chef Paul Ainsworth to unveil a gourmet afternoon tea tasting menu. This unique experience features recipes such as Cornish Gin and beetroot cured trout, dill and lemon clotted cream on a chive and spring onion scone to a Traditional Cornish strawberry cream tea trio featuring fresh, poached, and jam strawberries with Rodda’s vanilla clotted cream – all paired with premium loose-leaf teas from JING.

Dream Cream Tea Companions

When it comes to ideal cream tea companions, David Attenborough tops the list (15%), followed by The King (8%), Mary Berry (7%), Alison Hammond (7%), and Amanda Holden (6%).

Nicholas Rodda, founder of Rodda’s, expresses his joy: “As we celebrate the 10th anniversary of National Cream Tea Day, people across the nation will come together to enjoy one of the country’s favourite pastimes – scones, Cornish clotted cream, and jam. Whether you like jam first, or Cornish clotted cream first, we actually don’t mind! Just tuck in and enjoy this special day. If you can throw an afternoon tea party, selling cream teas and help raise crucial funds for charity, that’s even better.”

Chef Paul Ainsworth of No6 in Padstow adds: “This cream tea menu offers a unique twist on the classic cream tea that blends sweet and savoury elements to create a truly unforgettable at-home experience. Rodda’s Cornish clotted cream has a rich, luxurious texture and its exceptional quality means each course is elevated to greater heights. Whether you’re looking to explore new flavours or you’re someone who appreciates the comfort of a traditional cream tea, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this menu.”

Join the Celebration

As the nation prepares to celebrate National Cream Tea Day, it’s clear that whether you prefer cream or jam first, the day offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy this beloved British tradition with a modern twist.