Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, is a respected British tradition that has been celebrated for centuries. It’s a night when communities come together to light bonfires and watch spectacular fireworks displays. But beyond the fiery festivities and dazzling pyrotechnics, one of the most beloved aspects of Bonfire Night is undoubtedly the food! From bonfire toffee to baked potatoes, there are firm favourites we all cherish on this autumn celebration.
Let St Pierre take you on a gourmet journey through the delicious traditions of Bonfire Night.
From classic favourites to mouth-watering modern twists, we’ll explore recipes that will make this November 5th celebration truly special.
If you’ve ever wondered, “What food is traditionally eaten on Bonfire Night?” or if you’re simply looking for inspiration to elevate your own Bonfire Night menu, you’re in the right place. Ignite your appetite and kindle your curiosity as we explore the world of Bonfire Night traditions and food.
For even more Bonfire Night inspiration check out our Bonfire Night Ideas and our main Bonfire Night Occasion page.
Celebrate the warmth of tradition and the sizzle of our recipes this Bonfire Night with St Pierre. Let the flames of flavour and the crackling bonfire light up your festivities
Why We Celebrate Bonfire Night
Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, is celebrated to commemorate the defeat of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. The plot, led by Guy Fawkes, aimed to blow up the House of Parliament in London. The motive behind the plot was to restore a Catholic monarch to the throne.
However, the plot was discovered on the night of November 4th, 1605, when Guy Fawkes was found with explosives beneath the Parliament building. He was arrested, and the plot was stopped.
King James decreed that November 5th should be celebrated as a day of thanksgiving and remembrance for the safety of the monarch and the failure of the Gunpowder Plot. The tradition of lighting bonfires and setting off fireworks on this night began to mark the event and show loyalty to the crown.
Over the centuries, Bonfire Night has evolved into a festive occasion, celebrated with bonfires, fireworks, and various traditional foods and treats. While its historical and political significance may have waned, it remains a beloved cultural event in the United Kingdom.
What Food is Traditionally Eaten on Bonfire Night?
When it comes to traditional Bonfire Night food ideas, the focus is usually on dishes that are not only warming and tasty but also convenient to enjoy. The goal is to satisfy your appetite on a chilly November evening, offering a tasty treat you can enjoy while standing and taking in the fireworks.
Baking potatoes on the fire is a traditional Bonfire Night dish, wrapped in foil and cooked by the warm embers. You can choose a variety of toppings to go with your perfectly baked potatoes, perfect to satisfy many different tastes, and can be used as a side dish or the main meal.
Top Tip
Try our Pumpkin Slaw Burger recipe to go with your baked potatoes for an autumnal twist on a classic.
Bonfire Night Food Traditions: Hot Dogs & Burgers
Hot dogs and burgers have become iconic staples of Bonfire Night celebrations, and for good reason. They’re delicious and easy to eat gathered around a warm fire with loved ones. As families and friends gather around the bonfire and eagerly await the fireworks, convenience is essential! Hot dogs and burgers, nestled in soft buns and often loaded with a choice of toppings, provide the perfect handheld feast. Their simplicity makes them an ideal choice for a night when you want to enjoy the spectacle of the fireworks without the fuss of sitting down for a formal meal.
If you’re looking for something to elevate your hot dogs and burgers this Bonfire Night, try our delicious range of Brioche Burger Buns and Hot Dog Rolls. The lightly sweet taste of the brioche alongside your favourite burger or sausage will bring an extra special touch to your Bonfire Night spread.
If you’re in need of some inspiration for your Bonfire Night burgers and hot dogs, take a look at our magnifique ideas below.
Bonfire Night Catherine Wheel Sausage Burger
Infuse the enchantment of Bonfire Night with our Catherine Wheel Sausage Burgers. These délicieux burgers, inspired by the iconic Catherine wheel firework, are coated in a sharp honey and mustard glaze. Nestled within the golden embrace of a St Pierre Seeded Brioche Burger Bun, these burgers are guaranteed to add a burst of flavour and excitement to your Bonfire Night festivities.
Bonfire Night Catherine Wheel Sausage Burgers
“Make sure your Bonfire Night celebration goes off with a bang”
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Classic Hot Dog
There’s nothing quite like a timeless classic, and we’ve crafted this straightforward yet delightful recipe using our Brioche Hot Dog Rolls to bring you a delicious brioche hot dog in no time.
Classic Hot Dog
“German frankfurter with a French twist for a classic hot dog dinner”
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Complete with all the traditional hot dog fixings—caramelized onions, ketchup and mustard, these hot dogs are perfect for a fast and simple yet tasty Bonfire Night meal.
Top Tip
To give your guests the option to create their own Bonfire Night hot dog to their taste, create a hot dog topping station with a variety of sauces and toppings for them to pick from. Some options for this could be mustard, ketchup, BBQ sauce as well as chopped chillis, onions and grated cheese.
French Onion Hot Dogs
Upgrade your hot dog experience with a touch of French flair through these delectable French Onion Hot Dogs. Featuring caramelised onions, melted cheese, and St Pierre Brioche Hot Dog Rolls, which are side cut for convenience, these savoury treats bring a delightful fusion of flavours to your taste buds.
French Onion Hot Dogs
“Bonfire Night hot dogs with a French twist”
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Pulled Jackfruit Burger With Avocado Salsa
If you’re in search of a vegetarian Bonfire Night burger, our Jackfruit Burger with Avocado Salsa is guaranteed to win over the crowd. Just pick up a pack of our Seeded Brioche Burger Buns, mash some avocados, and shred some canned jackfruit. It’s a flavour-packed burger recipe that’s perfect for November!
Pulled Jackfruit Burger With Avocado Salsa
“A meat-free Bonfire Night burger”
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Firecracker Chicken Bagel
If you’re looking for a slightly different yet delightful burger idea to share with your guests this Bonfire Night, give these Firecracker Chicken Bagels a whirl. Spicy chicken nestled within the gentle sweetness of a St Pierre Brioche Soft Bagel creates a delicious blend of sweet and spicy flavours. These bagels are easy to whip up and perfect for serving at your upcoming Bonfire Night gathering.
Firecracker Chicken Bagel
“Sweet and spicy meet for an explosion of flavour.”
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Bonfire Night Food Traditions: Something Sweet
Sweet treats have become an integral part of Bonfire Night, offering a delightful blend of warmth, tradition and nostalgia. They add a layer of sweetness to an already magical evening, making the celebration even more special for everyone gathered around the bonfire.
Drink With A Sweet Treat
If you are a fan of warming up with the famous Pumpkin Spiced Latte on a chilly Bonfire Night,make it even more tempting by adding our Caramel Waffles. C’est magnifique!
You could also indulge with our Belgian Waffles with Butter or Belgian Waffles with Chocolate Chips for a magnifique moment.
We have a number of delicious sweet treats that are ready to serve at your Bonfire Night celebrations – from our individually wrapped Vanilla and Chocolate Chip Brioche Swirls, to our decadent Millionaires Waffle. These could simply be served as your sweet option alongside a number of warming drinks on 5th November including:
- Hot chocolate
- Hot spiced cider
- Hot toddy
- Mulled wine
Bonfire Night Brioche Swirl Cake Pops
If you like the idea of a toffee apple more than the taste, put a French spin on a cake pop alternative. Incorporating our Brioche Swirls and Chocolate Chip Brioche Swirls, these Brioche Swirl Bonfire Cake Pops are not only delicious but also a breeze to whip up. They make for a fantastic treat for the entire family and are easy to make and eat on the go!
Brioche Swirl Halloween Cake Pops
“A fun and delicious Halloween treat for all the family”
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