National Hot Cross Bun Day

Close-up shot of hands delicately placing currants on top of a freshly baked hot cross bun, with a quaint countryside kitchen backdrop.. — National hot cross bun day illustration

Did someone say hot cross buns? Oh boy, get ready for a tantalizing treat that will tickle your taste buds and have you dancing the foodie shuffle! It's time to celebrate National Hot Cross Bun Day, a day where we pay homage to these deliciously spiced delights that have been warming our souls for centuries.

When is Hot Cross Bun Day?

It's national hot cross bun day on the 11th September.

The Internet History of National Hot Cross Bun Day

Every year on September 11th, pastry lovers from around the world come together to celebrate National Hot Cross Bun Day. But the origins of these delectable treats go way back, long before the internet could even dream of creating a special day in their honor.

Hot cross buns have a rich history that can be traced back to ancient times. They were traditionally baked on Good Friday to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, with the cross symbolizing the crucifixion itself. The buns were then eaten on Easter Sunday, making them a symbol of both sorrow and joy.

Fast forward to the digital era, and hot cross buns have become a beloved treat enjoyed throughout the year. Whether you like them plain, filled with raisins, or spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, there's no denying the irresistible allure of these little baked goodies.

How to Celebrate National Hot Cross Bun Day

Celebrating National Hot Cross Bun Day is a piece of cake... or rather, a piece of bun! Here are a few tasty ideas to get you started:

Gather your loved ones and have a hot cross bun feast. Sharing is caring, after all!
Challenge your friends to a hot cross bun-eating contest. Who can devour the most buns in record time?
Host a bake-off and see who can create the most scrumptious hot cross buns.
Get active and burn off those bun calories with a hot cross bun-themed workout. Squat, jump, and reach for the buns... metaphorically, of course!

Did You Know?

Did you know that the world's largest hot cross bun was baked in England in 2013? This colossal bun weighed a whopping 198 pounds and took five bakers an impressive four hours to make. Now that's a big bun!

History behind the term 'Hot Cross Bun'

14th century

Early Origins

Hot cross buns have their roots in medieval England. The buns were traditionally made with sweet dough, flavored with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. The cross on top of the bun was thought to represent the crucifixion of Jesus, and the spices symbolized the spices used for embalming his body. These buns were typically eaten on Good Friday as part of the religious observance.

16th century

Associated with Christianity

During the reign of Queen Elizabeth I in the 16th century, hot cross buns became more closely associated with Christianity. A law was enacted that limited their sale to specific occasions, such as Good Friday, Christmas, and burials. Selling or consuming hot cross buns on any other day was strictly forbidden.

18th century

Superstitious Beliefs

In the 18th century, hot cross buns became surrounded by various superstitious beliefs. It was believed that if a bun baked on Good Friday was kept for a whole year, it would not go bad and would bring good luck to the household. The buns were also thought to possess medicinal properties and were used to cure various ailments.

19th century

Popularized by Street Vendors

Hot cross buns became popular street food in the 19th century. Street vendors would sell them on the streets, especially during the Easter season. The tune and popular nursery rhyme 'Hot Cross Buns' are said to have originated during this time and served as a catchy way for vendors to attract customers.

20th century

Widely Available Year-Round

In the 20th century, hot cross buns started to be produced and sold year-round instead of being limited to specific religious occasions. They became a popular treat enjoyed by people of various cultures and backgrounds, not just for their religious symbolism but for their delicious taste and unique cross decoration.