The history of the bun

It seems that every year, the deliciously sweet & sticky hot cross bun, hits the supermarket shelves earlier and earlier, with some even going on sale from New Years Day!

Well, if you think that the controversy around this is bureaucracy gone a little mad, then maybe we should consider this. … In 1592 Queen Elizabeth I put a ban on the making of hot cross buns outside Good Friday and Christmas – that means that for 363 days a year, you could not make, sell or even eat the sweet morsels!

And if you were found with them, they were confiscated and given to the poor. Whilst it may seem a little strict, maybe she was onto something here!

So as you eat your hot cross buns this weekend, spare a thought for those back in 1592, and enjoy that sweet handful of sugar & spice just a little more! And should you miraculously have any spare after the long weekend – then why not turn them into a warm and gooey Bread & Butter Pudding!

Trying your hand at making them yourself this weekend? Why not share your creations with us on Instagram – tag @Katering so we can check them out!

I spoke to Andrew Connole from Sonoma Bakery this week – they have been named in the top 10 for Sydney’s best hot cross buns, so he was the perfect person to fill me in on what it takes to make the perfect one! To listen to our chat and this week’s episode of Weddings, Parties, Celebrations, click here.