St Martin’s Croissants
Croissant filled with white poppy seed paste, a traditional delicacy from the Wielkopolska region, made especially for St. Martin's Day!
St. Martin's Croissants are a beloved Polish tradition enjoyed every year on 11 November, St. Martin's Day. But why this date? What makes these croissants so special? Here you'll discover their fascinating history, where they come from, and why they have become one of Poland's most iconic pastries. Who knows? Maybe you'll celebrate St. Martin's Day with our traditional St. Martin's Croissants this year!
To discover the origins of St. Martin's Croissants, we have to travel back to pagan times. In those days, people offered horn-shaped pastries to the gods instead of sacrificing animals. Later, the Christian Church adopted this tradition and associated it with St. Martin, who became a symbol of kindness and generosity toward those in need. But how did these ancient customs evolve into the famous croissants enjoyed today? And why have St. Martin's Croissants become such an important part of Polish tradition? Read on to discover their fascinating story.
St. Martin was a Roman soldier. One cold winter's day, as he entered the city of Amiens with his army, he noticed a poor beggar freezing outside the city gates. The man was dressed in little more than rags. Moved by compassion, Martin drew his sword and cut his military cloak in half, giving one part to the stranger. This act of kindness became a lasting symbol of generosity and care for others, and it is the reason why St. Martin is remembered and celebrated to this day.
The tradition truly took root in Poznań. Inspired by the priest's call to care for those in need, confectioner Józef Melzer persuaded his employer to revive the custom by baking St. Martin's Croissants and distributing them outside the church. As the years passed, more bakers joined in. Wealthier residents bought the croissants, while those who could not afford them received them free of charge. In 1901, the tradition was officially adopted by the Poznań Bakers' Association. After the Second World War, the custom was revived by Franciszek Rączyński, while Zygmunt Wasiński played a key role in preserving the tradition during the difficult post-war years. Today, St. Martin's Croissants remain one of Poznań's most treasured culinary traditions and a symbol of generosity and community.
Although the tradition of eating St. Martin's Croissants began many years ago, it remains as popular as ever. People in Poznań and across Poland continue to celebrate this wonderful custom. St. Martin's Day, celebrated on 11 November, is the day when these delicious croissants take centre stage.
Haven't tried traditional St. Martin's Croissants yet Let us introduce you to their wonderful flavour. A traditional St. Martin's Croissant should be made from laminated pastry and filled with a sweet filling containing, among other ingredients, white poppy seeds. The top of each croissant is covered with icing and sprinkled with nuts, such as walnuts. It's hard to resist such a carefully crafted recipe, which is why everyone should treat themselves to these delicious pastries on 11 November. Perhaps St. Martin's Day will become the new Fat Thursday. Don't you agree?
Order conveniently through our website and have your order delivered straight to your door. We've explained the entire process, from placing your order to delivery, step by step in our How to Order section. Alongside our St. Martin's Croissants, you'll also find a full range of handcrafted products from our artisan producers, including sourdough breads, doughnuts, sweet pastries, homemade cakes, traditional wood-smoked meats, ready-made Polish dishes prepared using homemade recipes, and many other exceptional products created with passion and experience. We invite you to shop with us and discover the true taste of artisan craftsmanship.
£5.55
/ 1 szt.
The free croissant will be added to your basket automatically when you add at least 15 croissants.
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We wish you peaceful, family-filled Christmas holidays and all the very best in the coming year ✨
