Crumpets or pikelets?

This is like a whistle stop tour of the UK. Most of us know what a crumpet looks like – where I come from a crumpet is called a pikelet – all these regional differences, still it keeps us entertained. A crumpet was posh – a pikelet definitely wasn't! The obvious difference is that a pikelet is thinner than a crumpet.

Speaking of regional differences, it reminds me, over the years I've got some very strange looks from friends when referring to such items as, for example, “oven bottoms” - having reassured them that I was not being rude, I then had to explain what an “oven bottom” was – if you're north of Watford – especially north west of, then you'll know that the name came about because bakers made use of every single inch of their ovens and no dough was ever wasted. They formed the dough into regular shapes and placed on the bottom of the oven – it didn't rise because it couldn't and so was flat top and bottom – hence “the oven bottom”.

Anyway back to the crumpet and the pikelet.

During a recent trip to Bicester Shopping Outlet, the morning snack was taken in the Farmshop Restaurant and Cafe. I'm not the easiest to please with mid morning snacks but was suitably impressed with what I chose, here it is :

It was as good as it looks. If I had one weeny criticism it was that it was a mite heavy and needless to say I had help to finish them – well everyone has to taste. In case it's difficult to see, the crumpets are toasted, covered in cream cheese and then drizzled with honey.

Enter the pikelet. You'll see that it is thinner than your average crumpet and just right for the likes of me. Toast your pikelet and spread with cream cheese - here's my extra twist – drizzle with maple syrup. The strange thing is that I don't have a sweet tooth but the balance of the pikelet, cream cheese and just a hint of natural sweetness is wonderful.

Christmas breakfast anyone?

Christmas late night snack anyone?

Christmas “I'm sick of food and fancy something really quick and easy” anyone?