Clotted Cream Crumble

Clotted Cream Crumble is a rich and indulgent dessert originating from the southwest of England, particularly associated with Devon and Cornwall. This delightful treat combines the luxurious texture of clotted cream with the comforting flavors of a classic fruit crumble. Traditionally served with fresh berries or seasonal fruits, this dish is a celebration of high-quality dairy and farm-fresh produce available in the region.

History of Clotted Cream Crumble

Clotted cream itself has a storied history, believed to have been introduced to the Cornwall region by Phoenician traders around 2000 years ago. The technique to make this cream, allowing cow's milk to steam over a long period, produced a thick, rich topping that became the cornerstone of countless local desserts. Pies, sponges, and crumbles began incorporating this delicacy as a filling, binder, or accompaniment, leading to the creation of the iconic Clotted Cream Crumble.

Fast forward to today, and Clotted Cream Crumble is a staple in British high teas and is served in gourmet restaurants across England. Its appeal lies in its blend of simplicity and opulence, using minimal ingredients to deliver maximum impact on the taste buds.

Ingredients

• Clotted cream - 200g
• Plain flour - 200g
• Brown sugar - 100g
• Unsalted butter - 150g, cold and cubed
• Rolled oats - 50g
• Mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries) - 300g
• Lemon juice - from 1 lemon
• Vanilla extract - 1 tsp
• A pinch of salt

Preparation

Preparing the Crumble Topping

1. First, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This will ensure it's at the right temperature when your dish is ready to bake.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt.

3. Add the cubes of butter into the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This method helps distribute the butter evenly, creating a suitably crumbly texture once baked.

4. Stir in the oats to complete your crumble topping.

Preparing the Fruit Base

1. Wash and prepare the berries, ensuring they are hulled and chopped if necessary.

2. In a separate bowl, gently mix together the berries with lemon juice and vanilla extract. This step adds a tangy note and enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking Process

1. Take an ovenproof baking dish and generously spoon the fruit mixture into the base, ensuring an even layer.

2. Distribute dollops of clotted cream across the top of the fruit. This will melt during baking and add a decadent, creamy layer to your dessert.

3. Evenly sprinkle the crumble mixture over the top of the fruit and clotted cream layers. Leave some parts open for the cream and fruit to peek through once baked, adding to the dish’s rustic charm.

4. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit juices bubble up around the edges. It is essential to monitor the cooking time to avoid overcooking the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Once removed from the oven, allow the Clotted Cream Crumble to cool slightly. This dessert is ideally served warm, balancing the crispy topping with the luxurious melted clotted cream and soft fruits below.

To complement the richness of this dish, consider serving it with a dollop of extra clotted cream on the side or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a regal tea-time setting, enjoy this crumble alongside a pot of your favorite black or herbal tea.

Whether it’s enjoyed as a highlight of a summer garden party or a comforting winter warmer, Clotted Cream Crumble is a versatile dessert that brings a touch of British heritage to any occasion.