CHOICE crowns the best hot cross buns of 2022, Woolworths and ALDI are also named as top retailers for the delectable pastry
By
- Replies 5
It is no secret that for some Australians, Easter season is synonymous with indulging yourself in some delicious hot cross buns.
With a variety of flavours being introduced by retailers as we are fast approaching Easter, the popularity of this delectable pastry just keeps getting more significant!
Speaking of new flavours, CHOICE has put 23 hot cross bun varieties being sold by retailers — including brands from major supermarkets such as Woolworths, Coles, IGA, and ALDI, major bakery chain Bakers Delight, and membership warehouse Costco — to a "blind test" to see which among the buns are the best.
If this piques your interest, you might want to consider reading on to learn more about the three varieties that stood out from the rest!
1. Woolworths Luxurious Fruited Hot Cross Buns
Credit: CHOICE
When we think of hot cross buns, the first thing that comes to mind is a decadent roll filled with dried fruit.
Apparently, this variant has the highest fruit concentration among all of the buns that were tested, prompting the experts from CHOICE to give it rave reviews and an approval rating of 84 per cent.
Woolworths' Luxurious Fruited Hot Cross Buns is made with almost 30 per cent fruits, which include sultanas, currants, sunmuscat raisins, cranberries and candied orange peel and has a "soft, lush texture", making it the highest-rated hot cross bun from the bunch.
The experts said: "Very nice shine and white cross. Spring back is good. Soft, lush texture. Fruit and spice aromatics evident. Good flavour. Lots of plump fruit. Overall the fruit mix and texture is awesome."
2. ALDI Bakers Life Indulgent Traditional Fruit
Credit: CHOICE
CHOICE experts gave the buns a rating of 73 per cent due to their texture and aromatic flavour.
The experts said: "It is a large, dense bun with good volume. Firm but bounces back. Very neat cross and nice shine. Can smell cinnamon. Good colour, light sheen. Moist, soft texture. Mild spice flavour, good amount of fruit."
So, for those of you who like a little bit of "kick" in their buns, this is perfect for you!
3. Woolworths Indulgent Brioche Fruit Hot Cross Buns
Credit: CHOICE
While the experts at CHOICE described these buns as "visually appealing but lacks spice", it is still good enough to make it in the top 3 list!
The experts explained: "Slightly yellow hue, like a brioche. Light glaze and thinly piped cross. Aroma lacking spices. Lovely and soft, moist crumb. Looks good visually but lacks spice."
In terms of which retailer sells the best hot cross buns, CHOICE experts crowned Woolies as the best retailer of apple and cinnamon hot cross buns, while ALDI takes the top spot for the tastiest chocolate buns.
What are your thoughts on this? Does your favourite make the cut? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!