Which would be your choice? Would it be politically incorrect to assume that the older generation may typically choose the former whilst the youngest among us would choose the latter? Does it just depend on how you’re feeling at the time?
Maybe you weigh up which is heavier – 34 g for the cream egg, 57 g for an average hot cross bun and look into the price per gram – a cream egg would typically cost twice as much as a hot cross bun. Perhaps for health reasons you may compare the content: 150 calories and 67% carbs for the egg and 190 calories and 70% carbs for the bun (plus whatever additions you make – Butter? Jam? Chocolate spread?
You may compare the history – Fry’s (now Cadbury’s) developed cream eggs in 1971 and now sell 200 million over Easter, whereas although it could be that the Greeks had a similar bun in the sixth century, the ‘Alban bun’ was first recorded in 1361 – made and distributed to the poor on Good Friday by Brother Thomas Rodcliffe. Both have various versions and have been modified over the years. Hot cross buns, if taken on voyages, were said to protect from shipwreck; if hung in a kitchen and replaced each year, protected from fire.
The hot cross bun, traditionally eaten on Good Friday to celebrate the end of Lent fasting and to commemorate the crucifixion with the symbol of the cross on the top. The cream egg, eaten mostly on Easter Sunday to celebrate the new life of Jesus’ resurrection and the promise that brings of everlasting life for us. If we just had the crucifixion, our salvation would be incomplete. Without the death of Jesus there could be no resurrection hope. Both are absolutely essential so enjoy both Easter treats as you meditate on the real meaning of Easter. Happy Easter!