The History of the Cinnamon Bun
Craving a delicious cinnamon bun? Before we dive into the rich history of this beloved pastry, why not treat yourself to one from our baked goods delivery service at Butter & Crust?
We partner with local London bakeries to bring you the finest cinnamon buns right to your doorstep. Now, let's explore the fascinating journey of this sweet treat through time and across the globe.
The Origins of the Cinnamon Bun
The cinnamon bun, also known as the cinnamon roll, has a history as rich and layered as its swirls of spicy-sweet filling. While the exact origins are debated, most food historians agree that the modern cinnamon bun has its roots in Northern Europe, particularly in Sweden.
Ancient Beginnings
The use of cinnamon in baked goods dates back to ancient times. The Egyptians and Romans were known to use cinnamon in their breads and pastries, although these early versions were quite different from the cinnamon buns we know today. Cinnamon was a prized spice, often used more for embalming than for culinary purposes in ancient Egypt.
The Age of Exploration
The widespread availability of cinnamon in Europe can be traced back to the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries. As Serious Eats notes, the Dutch took control of Sri Lanka, the primary source of cinnamon, making the spice more accessible to European bakers.
This led to an increase in cinnamon's use in various pastries and sweet breads.
The Birth of the Modern Cinnamon Bun
The cinnamon bun as we know it today is believed to have originated in Sweden in the 1920s.
According to Slow Travel Stockholm, the post-World War I era saw an increase in wealth, allowing people to afford luxurious ingredients like cinnamon, sugar, and butter.
This economic shift paved the way for the creation of the beloved kanelbulle, or cinnamon bun.
The Cinnamon Bun Around the World
As the cinnamon bun gained popularity, different countries and regions developed their own variations:
Sweden
The Swedish kanelbulle remains the gold standard for many cinnamon bun enthusiasts. It's less sweet than its American counterpart and often flavoured with cardamom. The Swedes take their cinnamon buns so seriously that they even have a National Cinnamon Bun Day on October 4th.
Finland
The Finnish korvapuusti, or "slapped ears," is a close cousin to the Swedish kanelbulle. These buns are known for their distinctive shape and generous size, sometimes reaching up to 8 inches in diameter.
Germany and Austria
In these countries, you'll find the Zimtschnecke, which translates to "cinnamon snail." These pastries are often denser and less sweet than their Scandinavian counterparts.
United States
The American cinnamon roll is typically larger, sweeter, and often topped with a cream cheese frosting. The popularisation of cinnamon rolls in the U.S. can be partly attributed to the Pillsbury Company, which began selling ready-to-bake cinnamon rolls in the 1950s.
Where to Find the Best Cinnamon Buns Today
While the definition of the "best" cinnamon bun is subjective, there are several places renowned for their exceptional offerings:
- Stockholm, Sweden: As the birthplace of the modern cinnamon bun, Stockholm is home to numerous bakeries serving excellent kanelbullar. Fabrique Stenugnsbageri is particularly well-regarded.
- Copenhagen, Denmark: While not the originators, Danish bakers have perfected their own version. Meyers Bageri is known for its delicious cinnamon buns.
- Helsinki, Finland: For a taste of the massive korvapuusti, head to Café Esplanad in Helsinki.
- London, UK: Our very own city has embraced the cinnamon bun trend. Fabrique (a Swedish import) and Nordic Bakery offer authentic Scandinavian-style buns.
- New York City, USA: For those who prefer the American-style cinnamon roll, Levain Bakery is a must-visit.
The Cinnamon Bun Today
Today, the cinnamon bun continues to evolve. Health-conscious bakers are creating gluten-free and vegan versions, while innovative chefs experiment with new flavours and presentations.
However, the classic cinnamon bun remains a beloved staple in bakeries and homes around the world.In recent years, there has been some controversy surrounding cinnamon buns.
In 2014, the European Union proposed regulations on the amount of coumarin, a compound found in certain types of cinnamon, allowed in foods.
This caused concern among traditional bakers, particularly in Denmark, where cinnamon rolls are a Christmas tradition.
However, bakers have adapted by using Ceylon cinnamon, which contains less coumarin than the more common Cassia cinnamon.
Conclusion
From its humble beginnings as a post-war treat in Sweden to its current status as a global pastry icon, the cinnamon bun has come a long way.
Whether you prefer the less sweet Scandinavian style or the indulgent American version, there's no denying the comfort and joy that a well-made cinnamon bun brings.Here at Butter & Crust, we celebrate this rich history by partnering with London's finest bakeries to bring you authentic, delicious cinnamon buns.
Why not order one (or a dozen) today and taste the centuries of tradition baked into each swirl?Remember, whether you're in Stockholm, New York, or right here in London, the perfect cinnamon bun is never far away. And with Butter & Crust, it's just a click away from your doorstep.
Indulge in a piece of baking history today!
