Both afternoon and cream teas are quintessential Great British traditions, steeped in heritage, but what is the difference?
The custom of drinking tea originated in the third millennium BC in China. It became popular in England in the 1660s thanks to King Charles II and his Portuguese wife.
Afternoon and cream teas are traditionally served with a pot of tea and enjoyed somewhere between midday and 5pm.
Afternoon tea or cream tea
Afternoon tea is traditionally served on a tiered cake stand, with each tier adorned with its own course. Dainty finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, and sweet treats are all included, alongside a pot of tea. Afternoon tea began as a means to bridge the gap between lunch and a much later 8pm evening meal. It was introduced by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, during the year 1840. Over the years, it was traditionally served at social gatherings for the upper-class and socialites and has remained a firm favourite to serve and enjoy at special occasions.
Cream tea is a much simpler affair than its afternoon tea counterpart. It originated in the Devon and Cornwall area and consists of traditional scones served with thick clotted cream, strawberry jam, and -of course – a pot of tea. It is much lighter than an afternoon tea and has sparked the age-old and playful debate of whether the jam or the cream should be spread onto the warm scone first.
Both afternoon tea and cream tea are traditionally accompanied by tea served in delicate china teacups. Modern twists include serving champagne or prosecco to mark a special event.
Afternoon tea delivery
Treating yourself or a loved one to an afternoon tea is the perfect way to mark a special occasion. Afternoon tea box delivery services from companies such as www.afternoonteabox.com/ deliver a freshly prepared and high-quality afternoon tea selection to your doorstep.
An afternoon tea box delivery makes for a perfect gift for someone special, who can indulge in this tasty tradition in the comfort of their own home.
