Easter is up there with the greatest when it comes to occasions to get baking for. There’s something for every baker: hot cross buns and simnel cakes for the traditionalists, miniature egg nests and Easter rabbit-themed creations for little bakers, the perfect excuse to add chocolate to every bake for the chocoholics, and creative twists on the classics for the rule-breakers. Whatever you’re looking to bake this Easter, we’ve got a recipe for it in this collection of traditional (and not so traditional) bakes.
Easter Simnel Cake
Heady with spice and rich with dried fruit, this Simnel cake recipe from Mary Berry’s Baking Bible is one for the true traditionalists. Topped with a sweet and nutty almond paste, it is the perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea over the long Easter weekend.
From the book
Mary Berry’s Baking Bible
A perfect guide for new bakers
250 foolproof baking recipes
The ultimate cakes and bakes from the nation’s favourite baker
Classic Hot Cross Buns
Hot cross buns are the poster boy of Easter baking and one of the most satisfying things to make from scratch. Making up a batch will fill your house with the scent of freshly-baked and warmingly-spiced dough, and instead of the ever-flatter versions available in supermarkets, you’ll enjoy fluffy, round buns. This recipe is a classic take, but for less traditional twists, try James Morton’s iced variety, or Nadiya Hussain’s berry versions.
And if you find yourself in the remarkable position of having any leftovers, turn them into this Hot Cross Bun Bread and Butter Pudding.
Easter Biscuits
These sugar-coated, lemon-flavoured biscuits are the perfect thing to make with children. Cut them into whatever shapes you fancy and customise them with icing or sprinkles. For more Easter biscuit inspiration, try these Hot Cross Biscuits.
Easter Nests
There’s something about these delightful chocolate and cereal nests that little and big cooks alike can’t resist.
Creme Egg Cupcakes
Creme. Egg. Cupcakes. This recipe from Primrose Bakery Everyday is the ultimate bake for fans of this classic Easter confection. The cupcake base is a dense and rich brownie mix, whilst the marshmallow icing is sweet, sticky and finished with a Creme Egg.
