What do you think of when you think of Easter? Joy, renewal, chocolate? Us too - world wide, chocolate has become an integral part of Easter celebrations. From bunnies, to eggs to jelly sweets, a sweet treat (or two) is often consumed over Easter Sunday.
But why does chocolate play such a big role in the holiday? The history of chocolate and Easter is incredibly interesting; let’s dive into the history behind this delicious tradition and explore a unique way to gift chocolate this Easter - chocolate bouquets!
Why is Chocolate a Part of Easter?
Over time, chocolate has become synonymous with Easter, blending tradition with the modern world. Easter represents renewal, resurrection, and the arrival of Spring. Chocolate in the form of Easter eggs has been a symbol of life, rebirth and indulgence after Lent.
Historically, chocolate has been a rare treat for those in a high class, and Easter, for many, marked a time to treat yourself, especially after the 40 days of Lent.
The Tradition of Easter Eggs
As Christianity spread, eggs took on a new meaning: aligning with the theme of resurrection and new life. Easter eggs go as far back as the 12th century, where they were painted and decorated to celebrate this religious holiday. It was most likely done to mark the end of the fast for Lent, when eggs were not to be eaten. Decorating and colouring Easter Eggs was also a popular way to mark this celebration.
By the time the Victorian era came around, gifting eggs was incredibly popular, with egg shaped gifts made of cardboard, tin or other materials being given out. Often, they contained small trinkets, chocolate or other small treats.
Easter eggs were created in France and Germany in the early 19th century, they were bitter, dark and solid (there was no milk chocolate at that time!). In 1873, British chocolatier, JS Fry & Sons introduced a new concept; a hollow egg. It allowed for larger, more desirable eggs - these became, and are still, a staple of Easter celebrations.
After a few years, Cadbury entered the market of chocolate eggs, and mass produced new flavours. When milk chocolate was invented by Swiss Chocolatier, Daniel Peter, in the 1870s - enhancing the appeal of Chocolate eggs at Easter.
What do easter eggs represent in christianity?
In the Christian religion, Easter Eggs represent resurrection and new life. It’s a powerful symbol throughout the community, and marks one of the most important Christian holidays.
Sometimes, the shell of an egg symbolises the sealed tomb of Christ, cracking the egg open is the tomb being opened when Jesus was resurrected. Over time, eggs have become intertwined with the celebration of Easter.
Where was the first easter egg made?
The first chocolate Easter egg was made in France and Germany in the early 19th century, but the breakthrough came in 1873 when JS Fry & Sons, a British chocolatier, produced the first hollow chocolate Easter egg.
Types of Easter Eggs
Hollow Chocolate Eggs
The egg we all know and love… made from milk, dark or white chocolate, they are hollow on the inside, allowing for a large egg shape. They can also be filled with smaller sweets, or chocolates, or if you’re lucky, a little toy!
Solid Chocolate Eggs
Made entirely from chocolate, these eggs are rich and thicker - favoured by those who enjoy a darker and more indulgent chocolate.
Praline and Ganache-Filled Eggs
For those of us who enjoy a luxurious chocolate egg, praline and ganache filled eggs offer a rich and indulgent option. Praline eggs are filled with a creamy, nutty filling, while ganache-filled eggs are packed with a velvety chocolate ganache.
Marzipan Eggs
Marzipan eggs are made from a sweet, almond-based paste and are often covered in chocolate or decorated with bright icing.
If modern chocolate Easter eggs aren’t your thing, or you’re looking for a gift with multiple chocolates, our Chocolate Bouquets are an excellent choice. From Cadbury chocolate bouquets to sweet bouquets to accommodate those of us who prefer a sweet, these make the perfect gift to celebrate Easter.
Chocolate bouquets offer a personalised and thoughtful way to present your Easter gifts, whether you're celebrating with family, friends, or someone special.
Easter Egg Games
Over Easter, an Easter Egg Hunt is often played and for many of us, is a family tradition. It involves hiding Easter Eggs around a home or garden and finding as many as possible!
In some areas, Easter egg rolling also takes place, where hard-boiled eggs are rolled down a hill, and the person whose egg travels the furthest wins.