Pune’s iconic cream rolls have cemented their place in the city’s diverse food culture, offering a nostalgic blend of buttery, flaky pastry filled with light, sweet cream. Though this treat has roots in traditional European baking, its Pune adaptations have become a much-loved staple, available in bakeries across the city.
Origins and Evolution
The humble cream roll’s origins in Pune trace back to bakeries influenced by British and European baking techniques during the colonial period. These bakeries introduced flaky puff pastries filled with sweet cream or custard. Over time, Pune’s local bakers have perfected their own versions, maintaining the crispy layers while enhancing the cream’s richness.
Popularity and Exclusive Offerings
Today, some of Pune’s most iconic bakeries, such as Kayani Bakery and Santosh Bakery, are renowned for their cream rolls. Kayani Bakery, established in 1955, continues to offer this treat, alongside its famed Mawa cakes and Shrewsbury biscuits. Santosh Bakery, another beloved establishment, has also been lauded for its traditional cream rolls, consistently drawing in crowds.
More recent players, like Malpani’s Bake-lite, have crafted special versions using whole wheat flour and custard powder, making them not only indulgent but slightly more nutritious. These rolls typically retail for around INR 60 to 80 for a pack of five, making them affordable for daily consumption or as a nostalgic snack.
Ingredients and Pricing
A typical cream roll consists of layers of crisp puff pastry encasing a generous filling of cream, custard, or flavored icing. The base ingredients include refined flour, butter, sugar, and sometimes whole wheat. Flavored fillings such as chocolate, vanilla, and fruit are also gaining popularity in newer outlets. Pricing is relatively modest, with smaller bakeries selling cream rolls for as low as INR 20, while premium versions from iconic bakeries may cost up to INR 40 or 50 per roll.
A Culinary Nostalgia
The cream roll’s enduring popularity speaks to its ability to offer both a sense of nostalgia and a quick, affordable indulgence. Despite the rise of modern pastries and desserts, the demand for this flaky delight continues to thrive, especially in areas like Camp and Deccan Gymkhana, where Pune’s oldest bakeries are located. Customers often reminisce about childhood memories of enjoying cream rolls after school or on special occasions.
Famous Bakeries Offering Cream Rolls
Some of the top spots to try Pune’s best cream rolls include:
- Kayani Bakery: Known for its crisp yet soft layers and rich cream, this establishment offers a blend of old-world charm and flavor.
- Santosh Bakery: Famous for its old-school charm and buttery rolls.
- Marz-O-Rin: Known for adding a modern twist to traditional offerings, this bakery sells cream rolls alongside sandwiches and plum cakes.
Conclusion
The cream roll remains a timeless classic in Pune, bringing together rich culinary tradition and simplicity. As newer bakeries experiment with flavors and healthier ingredients, the humble cream roll is set to remain a fixture in Pune’s food scene, continuing its journey from a colonial-era treat to a beloved, contemporary snack.
