Easter is drawing ever closer, with workers up and down the country relishing the thought of a four-day Bank Holiday weekend.
But Easter is about more than just a bit of time off. It’s about celebrating with family and friends as well as, more importantly, indulging your sweet tooth.
In the UK, we all enjoy a chocolate egg or two. Hot cross buns are another sweet indulgence that we treat ourselves to at this time of year. But what kind of Easter treats can be found in other countries around the world?
Italy
Being a Christian holiday, Easter is a big deal in Italy. One of the country’s most famous Easter treats is Columba Pasquale.
This delectable dessert is primarily made with flour, eggs, sugar and butter. It is then topped with sugar and almonds and baked in the shape of a dove.
Lebanon
A popular treat in Middle Eastern countries is Ma’amoul – a shortbread pastry filled with dates, walnuts or pistachios.
Ma’amoul is popular in a number of different religious cultures, with both Muslims and Jews treating themselves to the mysterious dessert. But Arab speaking Christians indulge in the sweet pastry every Easter.
Russia
A popular Easter treat in Russia is Kulich, a type of bread which is used in traditional religious holidays and ceremonies.
Baked to be tall and narrow, Kulich is dotted with raisins, almonds and bits of orange. It is often served with Paskha – another Easter dish made from cream cheese and fresh cottage cheese.
Greece
The Greek nation loves their food, and they often use Easter as an excuse to cook some wonderful dishes. A popular treat is Koulourakia, which is eaten after Holy Saturday.
Koulourakia is a sweet butter-based pastry, made with a dash of vanilla and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Traditionally formed in a ring shape, Koulourakia now comes in all manner of hand-crafted shapes.
(Images: garryknight, JP Lon, Gveret Tered , ladybugbkt, Bff)
