Hot Cross Buns have a long history as an Easter treat in the Christian world. With their white cross symbolising the crucifixion of Jesus, they were traditionally saved as a fast-breaking treat on Good Friday.
But, these days, you can take ‘em as and when you like ‘em. There are no rules. They are so ubiquitous that you don’t even have to wait until Easter for them (but it’s a lot more fun if you do). Eat them fresh or toast them with butter; try them bursting with fruit or oozing with chocolate.
Here, we’ve tracked down the best buns on the market this Easter.
Supermarket Stars
Co-op Irresistible Richly Fruited Luxury Hot Cross Buns, £2
These squidgy buns taste like the real deal at an unbelievable price point.
Waitrose Belgian Chocolate Hot Cross Buns, £2.50
An excellent option for the chocoholics out there who are unfettered by traditionalism.
M&S Luxury Mini Hot Cross Buns, £2
Parcels of joy that get major points for their dinky size.
Haute Hot Cross Buns
The Newt Hot Cross Buns, £4.95
A hot cross bun with the signature elegance of the Somerset hotel it comes from.
Fortnum & Mason Traditional Hot Cross Buns, £5.95
When’s the best time for a HCB? Teatime. Who elevates tea like no one else? Fortnum’s. Enough said.
Daylesford Organic Hot Cross Buns, £5.50
Spicey, fruity and tasty as heck. They look so pretty they’d make a great present, too.
AND IF YOU’RE GOING TO BE SUPER WHOLESOME AND MAKE YOUR OWN…
We really like this sourdough version from US blogger and baker Emilie Raffa, aka The Clever Carrot.
Inventive and delicious, her buns have a slightly chewier consistency than is traditional, thanks to their sourdough element, but your gut will love you for it. The all-American cream cheese frosting is a very pleasing flourish.
You should check in with The Clever Carrot more generally, too, for its glorious recipes for sourdough, pasta and other baked goodies.
