Bengaluru, 28 March

For many in Bengaluru, Good Friday isn't just a day of solemn reflection; it's also a time for a sweet tradition – Hot Cross Buns. These spiced buns, filled with currants or raisins and topped with a cross of icing, serve as a delectable reminder of the Easter story.

This tradition arrived in Bengaluru during British rule, and local bakeries have embraced it wholeheartedly. Among the many bakeries in the City, three legendary ones – Albert Bakery, Thom's Bakery and Thomson's Bakery – stand out, each with a legacy of crafting these buns for generations.

Established in 1920, Albert Bakery in Frazer Town prides itself on using only the finest ingredients like Ceylon cinnamon and plump raisins, with no artificial flavours. “We have been following the same process since my great-grandfather's time,” Mohammad Sabir, Managing Director and fourth-generation baker of Albert Bakery, told Salar News.

In Christianity, Good Friday marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, observed as a solemn day of reflection and fasting. Hot cross buns are a traditional treat on this day, with the cross symbolising the crucifixion and the spices representing those used in embalming Jesus.

The secret to making these cross buns lies in the slow fermentation process, which gives the buns a rich flavour and a soft, pillowy texture, said Binu Thomas, a co-owner of Thom's Bakery at Pulikeshi Nagar (Frazer Town). “We started making the Hot Cross Buns in 1972 and have never changed the recipe or the ingredients any time."

The cross buns dished out of Thomson's Bakery at Cox Town have a unique smoky flavour. “This is because we are using woodfired ovens,” said CT Abraham, owner of the bakery which was started in 1932.

For Bengalureans, Hot Cross Buns are an integral part of Easter celebrations. "It's a tradition I cherish with my family every year," said Kokila Kumar, a regular at Albert Bakery.

Komal Thandani, a young customer at Thom's Bakery, said, "They are a delicious way to kick off Easter weekend, and they make great gifts. The aroma of these buns instantly takes me back to my childhood." - Salar News