TikTok Is Divided Over This Cheesy Hot Cross Buns Hack From The UK
Most people associate hot cross buns with Easter since they were traditionally enjoyed during Lent and leading up to Easter Sunday. The original version seems to date back to a 12th-century monk who baked buns on a Good Friday with a cross-shaped score on top (via Irish Central).
Hot cross buns are usually slightly sweet with a hint of spice and a sprinkling of dried fruit like raisins. The cross can be formed out of dough, but many add a touch of sweetness by using icing to form the cross. They are not just a seasonal treat — hot cross buns are legendary. Some believed these buns protect you from kitchen fires, repulse evil spirits, and strengthen friendships, according to Smithsonian Magazine.
A homemade hot cross buns recipe is a delight, but you can also purchase the treat at bakeries and grocery stores. If you prefer your baked goods with a twist, TikTok has you covered. However, reactions are divided: Some can't wait to try this update on a classic while others are not so sure.
Hot cross buns like you've never had them before
For Easter 2021, M&S launched 4 Cheese Marmite Hot Cross Buns containing mature cheddar, Red Leicester, and Marmite. According to Good Housekeeping the brands have also collaborated on Marmite-flavored products like cream cheese and butter. The TikTok foodies @thisisplanetfood took the cheesiness up a notch by adding butter and even more cheese before drizzling it with the spread.
One TikTok user said, "U love it or hate it." Another commented, "No." A Marmite fan commented, "Looks dope," while another said it "needs a bit more marmite but it looks so good." Another TikTok user suggested an alternative, "I would make this with normal croissants."
In case you are unfamiliar with Marmite, it is a spread made from concentrated yeast extract that has a strong bitter umami flavor, but not many associate this flavor with old-school sweet, fruity hot cross buns. It is byproduct of beer brewing discovered in the 19th century by scientist Justus Freiherr Von Liebig who noted it was "completely vegetarian" with a "meaty flavor," according to the Marmite Museum.
While TikTok was divided over these hot cross buns, Marmite has always been a subject of controversy. In 1996, the Marmite manufacturers embraced its divisiveness by using the slogan "love it or hate it" in advertising campaigns (per Marmite Museum).