The British Tradition of Chocolate Easter Eggs

The British Tradition of Chocolate Easter Eggs: A Sweet Celebration

Easter is a time of reflection, renewal, and celebration, and in Britain, one of the most anticipated parts of the holiday is the tradition of chocolate Easter eggs, a tradition we remember fondly. But how did this tradition come to be, and why is chocolate so closely associated with this religious holiday?

Before chocolate was even part of the equation, eggs had a special significance during Easter celebrations. For centuries, eggs have symbolized new life and resurrection, making them a natural emblem for Easter, which celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In medieval Europe, eggs were often forbidden during Lent, so people would collect eggs during this time and eat them on Easter Sunday as a way of breaking the fast. But it wasn’t until the 19th century that chocolate eggs began to emerge as part of the holiday’s festivities.

It was the French and Germans who came up with the inspired idea to make eggs out of chocolate in the 19th century, though these early confections tended to be solid rather than hollow.

It was for Easter 1873 that Bristol chocolatier JS Fry & Son would create the first chocolate egg. Traditionally, at Easter, people would give each other chicken’s eggs which had been hard boiled and painted bright colors (that’s where the tradition of decorating eggs comes from). We remember painting faces on hard-boiled eggs as a children. Fry’s took this tradition and put their own spin on it, and so the first chocolate Easter eggs were introduced in Britain. Cadbury’s made their first chocolate Easter egg two years later.

Cadbury was also the first to create hollow chocolate eggs, which revolutionized the industry. Hollow eggs were not only cheaper to produce, but they were larger, allowing for a greater sense of excitement and celebration when they were unwrapped. These hollow eggs also made room for the "surprise" – the filling of the egg could now include chocolates, candies, or even toys. We enjoy these same Cadbury eggs today that we received as children growing up in the UK. Everyone has their favorite, be it Crunchie, Flake, Wispa or one of the many options available today!

Today, you can find Easter eggs in all shapes, sizes, and flavors, from luxurious dark chocolate creations to colorful, pastel-coated eggs filled with everything from caramel to mini toys.

The tradition of chocolate Easter eggs is now firmly embedded in British culture, with families across the UK eagerly awaiting the holiday's sweet celebrations.

As we approach Easter this year, don’t forget to take a moment to enjoy the sweetness of this long-standing tradition, and of course, indulge in a delicious chocolate egg or two. If this tradition is new to you perhaps it’s time to try a one of our fabulous chocolate eggs.