Kayani Bakery, established in 1955 in Pune’s Camp area, is synonymous with traditional, high-quality baked goods, and one of its most beloved creations is the Surti Butter Biscuit. This bakery, founded by three Parsi brothers, has become an iconic part of Pune’s culinary landscape, producing several biscuit varieties that are wildly popular across the city and beyond.
Ingredients and Taste
Surti Butter Biscuits from Kayani Bakery are known for their rich, buttery flavor and delicate, crumbly texture. Made from simple ingredients like refined flour (maida), butter, sugar, and a hint of milk, these biscuits achieve their characteristic lightness and melt-in-the-mouth quality through precise baking techniques. The butter lends a creamy richness, making them a favorite for tea-time snacks or gifting. The subtle sweetness of these biscuits is what sets them apart from others on the market.
Origins
Kayani Bakery’s Surti Butter Biscuits reflect the Parsi and Irani baking traditions that thrived in Pune post-independence. These recipes were perfected over decades by the bakery’s founders, Khodayar, Hormazdiar, and Rustom Kayani, who migrated from Iran. While their Shrewsbury biscuits might steal the spotlight, Surti Butter Biscuits remain a local favorite and are deeply embedded in the culinary history of Pune.
Popularity
Though Kayani Bakery is best known for its Shrewsbury biscuits, Surti Butter Biscuits have a loyal customer base. The bakery has maintained its traditional style of operation, with people lining up early in the day to secure their freshly baked goodies. Despite offering only limited hours of service, Kayani sells hundreds of kilograms of biscuits every day, including Surti Butter Biscuits, which are often among the first to sell out. These biscuits are often bought in bulk, either as souvenirs or gifts, as their buttery texture and taste evoke a sense of nostalgia.
The Bakery’s Continued Success
Kayani Bakery’s success lies in its commitment to quality and tradition. It continues to attract a broad customer base, from long-time Punekars to tourists eager to sample its renowned baked goods. With no plans for expansion or franchising, the bakery has preserved its old-world charm, making it a must-visit for those who want a taste of Pune’s rich baking heritage.
The Surti Butter Biscuit, though overshadowed by the fame of the Shrewsbury, stands as a testament to the quality and care that goes into every product that Kayani Bakery produces. It is a humble yet quintessential part of Pune’s food culture, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
