HOT cross buns have been a staple at Easter for so long now their history is a little unclear with most people only aware of the often-absurdly-early timing of their arrival in supermarkets and the various derivative versions now offered.

Although the baking of buns with a cross symbol may go back to first century Greek pagan roots, by the end of the Medieval period it became common for Christian monks to bake spiced buns marked with a cross, symbolising the crucifixion of Jesus.