The Origin and Delight of Hot Cross Buns

The Origin and Delight of Hot Cross Buns

Who can resist the allure of warm spices, raisins, and that iconic cross on top?

Discover the fascinating history behind hot cross buns and why they have become a beloved Easter treat. Plus, find out where to get the best buns in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

Hot cross buns, those squishy and sweet Easter treats, have become a staple on supermarket shelves long before Easter arrives. With warm spices, raisins, citrus peel, and sometimes even chocolate, these buns are undeniably delicious.

But did you know that hot cross buns have a rich history that dates back to ancient times? Ancient Egyptians used to celebrate their gods with small loaves of bread divided into four sections, while Greeks and Romans used sweetened rolls as offerings to their goddesses. Early Germans paid tribute to Eostre, the goddess of spring, with similar sweet buns.

It wasn’t until the 12th century when an English monk decided to decorate a bun with a cross to symbolize the crucifixion. This tradition quickly caught on, and people began to eat hot cross buns on Good Friday. The cross on the bun also served a practical purpose – it helped the bun rise in the oven.

Today, hot cross buns have become a beloved Easter tradition that brings joy to people’s taste buds. Whether you prefer to heat them in the microwave and add a wedge of cold butter or toast them under a grill swimming in melted butter, these buns are a thing of beauty.

If you’re looking for the best hot cross buns in town, look no further. In London, St John in Borough is the place to go. In Sydney, AP Bakery in Surry Hills is known for their sensational buns. Melbourne residents should check out Baker Bleu, and for those in Brisbane, Darvella Patisserie is the go-to spot.

So, this Easter, indulge in the deliciousness of hot cross buns and savor the rich history behind this delightful treat. After all, who can resist the allure of warm spices, raisins, and that iconic cross on top?

  • Hot cross buns are a delicious and seasonal treat
  • They have been around since ancient times
  • An English monk in the 12th century added the iconic cross decoration
  • Top spots to find the best hot cross buns

Hot cross buns have a fascinating origin that predates Christianity. From ancient Egyptian bread offerings to the 12th century English monk’s decorative addition, these buns have stood the test of time. Whether you heat them or toast them, make sure to enjoy hot cross buns this Easter season.

By Paul Hughes

Paul Hughes is an accomplished travel journalist known for his captivating stories and insightful exploration of destinations worldwide. With a deep love for travel and a curiosity for different cultures, Paul has embarked on countless adventures, immersing himself in diverse landscapes and communities. His wanderlust led him to pursue a career in travel journalism, where he skillfully captures the essence of each place he visits.