Why Do We Eat Chocolate Eggs at Easter?

Easter is a very busy time of year for chocolatiers, because whether religious or not, most of us enjoy a chocolate egg (or 2!) around the Christian holiday. In the UK, we buy and consume 80 million Easter eggs each Easter

Why do we eat Chocolate Eggs at Easter?

Easter is a very busy time of year for chocolatiers, because whether religious or not, most of us enjoy a chocolate egg (or 2!) around the Christian holiday. In the UK, we buy and consume 80 million Easter eggs each Easter which averages to around eight eggs per child. But why do we eat chocolate eggs at Easter? 

The History of Eggs at Easter

Eggs are traditionally a symbol of fertility and rebirth, and they also symbolise the resurrection of Jesus Christ through the hard shell of the egg which represents the tomb in which he was buried. By emerging from the tomb, the hard exterior of the egg symbolises Jesus conquering death.

Why do we have Easter eggs?

Originally eating eggs was not allowed by church leaders and Christians, as during lent all animal products were supposed to be avoided. But chickens still had to lay their eggs, so the eggs were kept and hard boiled in order to be decorated and given as gifts or used as decorations. The Victorians adapted the tradition using satin-covered cardboard eggs to fill with Easter gifts. 

Why are Easter eggs made of chocolate?

France and Germany pioneered the making of chocolate eggs in the 19th century but they were bitter and hard. Chocolate making techniques were improved over time and the hollow eggs we have today were developed. They remain a favourite Easter time tradition. The more modern tradition of eating chocolate eggs at Easter is a fun, child-friendly twist on honouring an ancient religious ritual.

Be sure to check out our Easter chocolate collection by clicking here, or pop into our shop in Kirkby Lonsdale.