Spring is the season when the world shakes off its winter blues and bursts into a riot of colour. It’s time to dust off that picnic basket, gather your favourite people, and head outdoors for some al fresco magic.
There’s something downright joyful about spreading a checkered blanket on the grass, surrounded by blooming daffodils, and digging into a spread of good food. But let’s be real: no picnic is truly complete without a sweet finale to make everyone smile.
If you want to add something special to your spring picnic, let me introduce you to a couple of Scottish delights that might just steal the show: tablet and fudge. These confections are steeped in history and perfect for sharing under a sunny sky. So, grab a cup of tea (or a thermos for the picnic), and let’s explore why these treats deserve a spot in your basket.
The Joy of a Spring Picnic
Picture this: It’s a crisp spring afternoon, the kind where the air smells like fresh grass and possibility. You’re in a park, maybe by a lake, with friends or family sprawled out on a blanket.
The kids are chasing butterflies, and the adults are laughing over a story someone’s telling. The picnic spread is a thing of beauty—sandwiches, a crisp salad, maybe some homemade lemonade. But as the meal winds down, everyone’s eyes start wandering toward the dessert. That’s where the magic happens.
What Makes Scottish Tablet and Fudge So Special?
If you’re new to Scottish tablet, you might glance at it and think, “Oh, that’s just fudge.” But take one bite, and you’ll realise it’s a whole different beast. Both tablet and fudge start with similar ingredients—sugar, butter, milk—but the way they’re made sets them apart.
Tablet is boiled to a higher temperature, giving it a medium-hard, brittle texture that’s delightfully grainy and melts in your mouth. Fudge, on the other hand, is softer, creamier, and feels like a hug in confection form.
Tablet’s history stretches back to the early 18th century, with one of the earliest recipes recorded in The Household Book of Lady Grisell Baillie (Scottish Tablet History). Back then, it was made with just sugar and cream, but modern recipes often use condensed milk and butter to avoid burning.
It’s a sweet that’s woven into Scottish culture, gracing weddings, holidays, and family gatherings as a symbol of hospitality. Fudge, while not as old, has its own charm, with roots in 19th-century America but a strong presence in Scotland’s sweet shops today.
What makes these treats picnic-perfect? For one, they’re sturdy. Unlike chocolate, which can turn into a melty mess in the spring sun, tablet and fudge hold their own. They’re easy to cut into bite-sized pieces, making them ideal for sharing. And let’s not forget the flavour—rich, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet to satisfy without overwhelming.
Where to Find These Delights
If you’re wondering where to snag some authentic Scottish tablet or fudge, you’re in luck. Artisanal producers across Scotland craft these sweets with love and tradition. Mrs Tilly’s is known for its high-quality confections that stay true to classic recipes. Our traditional Scottish tablet, made with sugar, whole milk, rich salted butter, and glucose syrup, is a creamy delight that practically dissolves on your tongue.
For fudge lovers, we offer a dizzying array of flavours to suit every palate. Think Orange, Sea Salt, Belgian Chocolate, Whisky, Rum and Raisin, and even Gingerbread for a touch of spice. If you’re catering to dietary needs, their vegan fudge range, including Classic, Sea Salt, and Belgian Chocolate, ensures everyone can join the party. And for a fun twist, we also make flavoured popcorn, like tablet popcorn, which adds a crunchy, sweet element to your picnic spread (Mrs Tilly’s Popcorn).
How to Make These Sweets Shine at Your Picnic
Now that you’re sold on Scottish tablet and fudge, let’s talk about how to weave them into your picnic like a pro. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
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Pair with Beverages: The rich, buttery taste of tablet is a match made in heaven with a strong cup of coffee or tea. Bring a thermos to keep things simple. Fudge, with its creamy texture, pairs beautifully with tart fruits like strawberries or crisp apples, balancing the sweetness.
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Get Creative with Desserts: Swap out chocolate for fudge in a s’mores-inspired treat—roast marshmallows and sandwich them with fudge pieces for a decadent twist. Or crumble tablet over a bowl of fresh berries or yoghurt for a sweet, crunchy topping.
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Build a Dessert Platter: Create a stunning spread with a mix of tablet, fudge, cheeses, and fruits. The contrast of savoury and sweet will have your guests coming back for more. Our gift boxes, filled with assorted sweets, make this easy and elegant.
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Snack on Popcorn: For a lighter option, toss in some flavoured popcorn. It’s perfect for munching while chatting or playing games, and the tablet popcorn adds a sweet surprise.
When packing, store your tablet and fudge in airtight containers to keep them fresh. Pre-cut them into small squares or break them into chunks for easy sharing. If you’re attending a picnic as a guest, consider bringing a gift box of Scottish sweets as a thank-you—it’s a thoughtful gesture that’s sure to impress.
A Nod to Scottish Tradition
For centuries, Scottish tablet has been a staple at celebrations, from weddings to Hogmanay, symbolising warmth and community. Sharing it at your picnic is like passing around a little bit of Scotland’s soul. Fudge, while newer, has earned its place in the Scottish sweet canon, with innovative taste that keeps things exciting.
Crafting these confections is an art form, requiring precise temperature control and timing to nail the texture. That’s why some confectioners, with their dedication to quality, stand out. Their traditional bars, bundles, and even 1kg bags are perfect for stocking up for multiple picnics.
Tips for a Sweet Picnic Success
To make sure your sweets steal the show, keep these tips in mind:
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Variety is Key: Bring a mix of tablet and fudge flavours to cater to different tastes. Mrs Tilly’s orange fudge might appeal to the adventurous, while our Original fudge is a crowd-pleaser.
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Portion Control: Cut sweets into small pieces to encourage sampling without overindulging.
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Storage: Use airtight containers or resealable bags to protect against humidity.
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Presentation: Arrange sweets on a wooden board or in a decorative tin for a charming touch.
If you’re hosting a family picnic, our traditional bars are great for little hands. For a romantic outing, our gift boxes add a touch of luxury. And for vegan friends, the vegan fudge range ensures no one misses out.
Wrapping Up
As spring unfolds and the days grow longer, there’s no better time to plan a picnic. It’s a chance to slow down, connect with loved ones, and savour the simple pleasures of good food and great company.
So, pack your basket, find a sunny spot, and let these Scottish delights sweeten your spring. Whether it’s the crumbly bliss of tablet or the smooth indulgence of fudge, these treats are sure to make your picnic one for the books. Explore our online shop to find more sweet delights!
