The Easter Throwback Kitchen: Classic Recipes with a Twist

One of my favourite hobbies is scouring vintage recipes to discover tasty treats from times gone by that have long since been forgotten in our modern kitchens. This Easter, why not take a trip down memory lane and revive some nostalgic classics? In this guide, I’m going to share some of the best vintage Easter recipes, and provide inspiration for giving them a contemporary twist for your celebrations… 

1. Retro Ambrosia Salad Reinvented: The classic ambrosia salad, a staple of mid-century Easter feasts, can be updated for modern tastes. Instead of using canned fruits and marshmallows, opt for fresh, seasonal fruits like pineapple, mandarin oranges, and grapes. Mix in a homemade whipped cream or a coconut yogurt alternative for a lighter touch, and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for added texture.

2. Glazed Ham with a Twist: Easter ham is a quintessential vintage dish that never goes out of style. Give it a new lease on life by applying a glaze made from bourbon, brown sugar, and warm spices like clove and cinnamon. The addition of bourbon adds a depth of flavour that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the ham.

3. Devilled Eggs with Gourmet Fillings: Deviled eggs were the highlight of many Easter celebrations in decades past. Elevate this classic by experimenting with gourmet fillings. Think smoked salmon and dill, bacon and cheddar, or avocado and cilantro. Use a piping bag to fill the egg whites for a professional touch, and garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for presentation.

4. Scalloped Potatoes with Modern Upgrades: Scalloped potatoes are a creamy, comforting side dish that has graced Easter tables for generations. Modernise this recipe by incorporating sweet potatoes or a mix of root vegetables. Add a crunchy topping of panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh thyme to create a dish that’s both familiar and excitingly new.

5. Crown Roast of Lamb with Fresh Herbs: A crown roast of lamb is a show-stopping vintage main course that can be updated with a rub of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and mint. Pair it with a vibrant chimichurri or a mint pesto to enhance the flavors and bring a touch of contemporary freshness to the dish. The visual impact of the crown roast, coupled with the updated flavours, will make it a memorable centrepiece for your Easter meal.

6. Hot Cross Buns with a Gourmet Filling: Hot cross buns are an Easter classic with roots in English tradition. Modernise these spiced sweet buns by adding unique fillings such as chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or apple cinnamon. You can also experiment with different types of flour, like spelt or whole wheat, for a healthier option. Finish with a simple icing cross that includes a hint of citrus zest for an extra pop of flavour.

7. Asparagus Mimosa with a Citrusy Dressing: The asparagus mimosa, named for its resemblance to the yellow mimosa flower, is a dish that combines tender asparagus with hard-boiled eggs. Give it a modern update by drizzling it with a homemade citrus vinaigrette made from lemon or orange juice, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey. Top with finely chopped eggs and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a refreshing side dish that pays homage to its vintage roots.

8. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake with a Caramel Twist: A dessert table at a vintage Easter might have featured a pineapple upside-down cake. Breathe new life into this retro dessert by using fresh pineapple instead of canned and adding a homemade caramel sauce that drips down the sides for a more decadent experience. Serve with a dollop of coconut whipped cream or vanilla bean ice cream to meld the old with the new.

9. Easter Bread with Artisan Flavours: Easter bread, or Pane di Pasqua, is a sweet bread traditionally flavoured with anise and decorated with coloured eggs. Update this recipe by incorporating modern flavours like cardamom, vanilla, or almond extract. Braid the bread with a mix of whole grains and top it with a light glaze and nonpareils in elegant, muted tones for a sophisticated twist on the colourful original.

10. Jelly Bean Bark with Gourmet Confections: Jelly beans are a nostalgic Easter candy that can be repurposed into a chic dessert. Melt high-quality white or dark chocolate and spread it thin on a parchment-lined tray. Before it sets, sprinkle with an assortment of gourmet jelly beans, edible glitter, and a pinch of sea salt. Once hardened, break the bark into pieces.