Easter in the UK is not just about chocolate eggs—it's a time for celebrating the arrival of spring with a variety of delicious baked goods and festive dishes. From fragrant spiced buns to rich fruit cakes and buttery biscuits, traditional Easter treats bring warmth and nostalgia to the holiday table.
No British Easter is complete without hot cross buns—soft, spiced, and studded with dried fruit, marked with a signature cross on top. Originally baked to symbolize the end of Lent, these buns have become a staple throughout spring. While the classic version remains a favourite, modern twists include chocolate, orange zest, or even savoury variations with cheese and herbs.
This traditional fruitcake, rich with dried fruits, almonds, and warm spices, is topped with a layer of marzipan and decorated with 11 marzipan balls—representing the apostles (excluding Judas). Originally baked by girls in service to gift to their mothers on Mothering Sunday, Simnel cake is now a cherished Easter treat enjoyed across the UK.
In the West Country, Easter biscuits are a favourite seasonal bake. These delicate, crumbly cookies are flavoured with cinnamon, nutmeg, and currants, often finished with a sprinkle of sugar. Traditionally gifted to guests on Easter Sunday, they pair beautifully with a cup of tea.
A simple yet beloved Easter sweet, chocolate nests are made by mixing melted chocolate with crispy rice cereal or crushed cornflakes and shaping them into little "nests." Topped with mini chocolate eggs, they are a fun and easy treat that children love to make.
Across Europe, many countries bake cakes in the shape of lambs or rabbits, symbolizing renewal and spring. Inspired by this tradition, many British bakers create Easter-themed cakes and cupcakes, often decorated with pastel-coloured icing, sugar flowers, and edible eggs.
Beyond the sweet treats, Easter Sunday is also a time for a festive meal, often featuring roast lamb, spring vegetables, and fresh-baked bread. The holiday is a beautiful blend of culinary traditions that reflect the joy and renewal of the season.
Whether you’re baking classic hot cross buns, experimenting with new flavours, or simply indulging in chocolate eggs, Easter is a wonderful time to celebrate with food. So, which Easter treat will you be making this year? 😊
Natalie Marten (Windsor__Foodie)
Cookpad Team