How did easter bun reach the Caribbean?

Bun and cheese is a staple Caribbean snack enjoyed by us at home all year round but especially during Easter. With it being popular during this time of year, I had to ask myself why and how did this deep, rich, spiced bread become a favourite of West Indians.

The origins of spiced bun are not quite clear, however, it is widely believed that bun and cheese was derived from English hot cross buns, which were traditionally eaten by the British on Good Friday, with the cross symbolising the crucifixion of Jesus.

The tradition eventually became a staple in Caribbean culture, when English 'missionaries' brought Christianity to the island of Jamaica in the 17th Century. Easter gradually became observed on the island along with the eating of hot cross buns.

In true Caribbean style, over time, the snack was developed and adapted where it was made into a loaf with the addition of molasses, spice and sometimes malt or Guinness. Researching recipes and comparing spiced bun to hot cross buns, I noticed the absence of yeast makes spiced bun feel more like a dense cake in comparison to the buns which are essentially a sweet, spiced bread. Check my recipe for it, super simple to make.