As a child yourself or perhaps with children of your own, you may be familiar with the silly kid song Hot Cross Buns. Young children learn the song as a nursery rhyme. One thing for certain after refreshing your memory or hearing it for the first time, surely your mouth will be watering for the spiced, slightly sweet buns.

September 11 is...

National Hot Cross Bun Day

(Some sites post this celebration on February 15 & one even lists it on April 14.)

Hot cross buns are sweet yeasts buns made with raisins or currants and spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Made tender with milk and eggs, the tops are decorated with a cross made of icing (or more simply, by knife cuts in the dough). The cross symbolizes the crucifixion, and the buns are traditionally eaten on Good Friday. [Source: The Nibble]

The connection of hot cross buns to Christianity, especially Good Friday, begs the question, "Why is this day celebrated in September?" The answer: Unknown! No origin has been located as to why on this date or who is responsible for its designation. Do check out A History of Hot Cross Buns for a bit of fruity and spicy information!

Interestingly enough are the Hot Cross Bun superstitions:

English folklore – Buns baked and served on Good Friday will not spoil or mold during the subsequent year.

English folklore – Buns can be used for medicinal purposes. A piece of it given to someone ill will help them recover.

Sharing one with another person is supposed to ensure friendship throughout the coming year, especially if “Half for you and half for me, Between us two shall goodwill be” is said at the time.

Some people believe because there is a cross on the bun, they should be kissed before being eaten.

Hot cross buns are said to protect you during a sea voyage.

If hung in a kitchen, they are said to protect against fires and ensure that all bread turns out perfectly. (The hanging bun is replaced each year.) [Source: National Day Calendar]

Is your mouth still watering? Get to work and get some made!
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~Recipe Time~