The Evolution of the Hot Cross

Pagan traditions have deep roots in our society, influencing not only our celebrations but also the foods we enjoy. The Hot Cross Bun, with its rich and spicy history, is no exception to this influence.

as Christianity spread through the 12th Century, the bun evolved

It was thought to be first made by Saxons to celebrate spring celebrations and to honor Eostre, the goddess of Dawn & Fertility. As Christianity spread through the 12th Century, the bun evolved, its cross now representing the crucifixion of Christ.

Come the 14th century, it became a treat to be had with the end of Lent, offering a sweet respite from the absence of butter and sugar during the fasting period.

hunger for the bun out weighed the law and people started baking them in secret

In the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, Hot Cross Buns were so popular that they posed a threat to the Church Of England, a law was decreed limiting the buns to funerals, Christmas and Good Friday but the hunger for the bun out weighed the law and people started baking them in secret.

The Victorian Era introduced more aromatics to the still sort after bun, including dried fruits and spices, sold on the streets of London “Hot” from the oven, Hot Cross Buns were renamed, street vendors on the streets would call, One a Penny Two a penny … One a penny for a small bun, two a penny for a large bun.

Today, the Hot Cross Bun is available in a delicious array of flavours from chocolate chip to caramel, peanut butter to white chocolate. These variations are on store shelves as early as Christmas Eve!

Our fondness and love affair with this spicey fruity bun is likely reminiscent of childhood Easter mornings when the scent of toasted buns, slathered in butter, filled the air - a tradition and a treat cherished since the 12th century and beyond.

one a penny ... two a penny ... hot cross bun