Queen Camilla has always favoured simple comforts over anything flashy, and her traditional Boxing Day breakfast is a perfect example. The royal favourite was recently shared by her son, Tom Parker Bowles, who lifted the lid on a family ritual that dates back to his childhood.
In his book Cooking and the Crown, Tom explains that every December his mother would make what the family came to know as “buttered eggs.” Despite their simplicity, he says she could turn out huge portions with very little effort. Made with just four ingredients, the dish became a reliable Boxing Day staple in their household.
Tom recalls that the eggs were usually made with fresh, home-produced eggs and somehow always tasted better than any others. The name itself has a royal backstory too. According to Tom, Princess Margaret disliked the word “scrambled” and insisted on calling them “buttered eggs,” a term he admits has a certain charm.
Beyond tradition, the dish also comes with some modern-day approval. Nutritionist Helen Bell, speaking to Surrey Live, said eggs can be a smart choice for those trying to manage their weight. High in protein, they help you feel fuller for longer, which can naturally reduce calorie intake across the day. She added that preparation matters, recommending lighter methods like boiling or poaching to avoid extra fats.
Queen Camilla, who is married to King Charles III, has two children from her first marriage to Andrew Parker Bowles: Tom Parker Bowles and Laura Lopes. Her no-fuss Boxing Day breakfast offers a small but revealing glimpse into a royal routine built around comfort, tradition, and good food rather than ceremony.
