We see them everywhere this time of year….in a host of flavours from the traditional to the bizarre!
But, why do we have them at Easter time?
A Rich Tapestry of Tradition
The hot cross bun’s origins can be traced back centuries, intertwining with religious and cultural traditions. It’s believed that these spiced, fruit-filled buns first emerged in England during the Middle Ages, with their signature cross symbolizing the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Originally enjoyed exclusively on Good Friday, hot cross buns soon became a staple of Easter celebrations, symbolizing new life and rebirth.
Beyond their delectable taste and soft, fragrant texture, hot cross buns are steeped in symbolism. The spices used in their preparation, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, represent the exotic gifts presented to baby Jesus.
World’s Largest Hot Cross Bun: In 2013, a team of bakers in Australia set a Guinness World Record for creating the largest hot cross bun ever made. Weighing in at a whopping 168 kilograms (370 pounds), this colossal bun measured over three meters (just under 10 feet) in diameter. It took 90 minutes to bake and required a staggering amount of ingredients, including 1,000 kilograms of flour, 100 liters of milk, and 200 kilograms of dried fruit.
£1,000 hot cross bun1
In 2018, a bakery in London set a new Guinness World Record for the most expensive hot cross bun ever sold. This extravagant bun was adorned with gold leaf and diamonds, making it a luxurious treat fit for royalty. It was sold for a staggering £1,000 with all proceeds going to charity.
The Royal Seal: In 1592, Queen Elizabeth I of England decreed that hot cross buns could only be sold on Good Friday, Christmas, or for burials. To enforce this law, bakers were required to obtain a special license from the Crown. This tradition persisted for several centuries, with bakers proudly displaying the royal seal on their hot cross buns.
Ancient Origins: While hot cross buns are commonly associated with Easter in Western culture, similar spiced buns have been enjoyed by various civilizations for centuries. The ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians all had their own versions of sweet, spiced breads often adorned with symbolic markings.
While hot cross buns are delicious on their own, they truly shine when paired with Langage Farm Dairy’s exquisite clotted cream! The creamy richness of our clotted cream perfectly complements the subtle sweetness of the bun, creating a harmony of flavours that is simply irresistible. For a decadent twist, try spreading a generous dollop of clotted cream on a warm hot cross bun and drizzling it with honey for an indulgent treat that’s sure to delight the senses.