Easter is around the corner and no Easter celebrations would be complete without warm, freshly toasted hot cross buns to bury your face in. Luckily, there’s a bevy of excellent bakeries and cafés serving up some truly delicious hot cross buns in Sydney this year. Whether you prefer the classics or something a little different, there’s something to suit everyone’s tastes. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect batch, check out our picks of the very best the city has to offer.
1. Sonoma
Sonoma‘s ‘Not Cross Buns’ is a staple Easter treat. The buns are packed with fruits and spices, and piped with their popular ‘S’ finish on top. Hand-mixed to perfection with raisins, cranberries, apricots and candied orange along with a number of heady spices, the buns are then coated with a sugar glaze infused with Sonoma’s house-roasted coffee and more spices because you can never have enough spices. Check out their website for more delicious menu offerings.
2. Brooklyn Boy Bagels
Say goodbye to traditional hot cross buns and say hello to hot cross bagels. Brooklyn Boy Bagels’ Easter version combines the chewy texture of a bagel with the sweet flavour of a bun, topped with a vanilla-glazed cross. Plus, indulge in their candied orange and cinnamon hot cross buns, or treat yourself to decadent Belgian milk chocolate hot cross buns. Order yours here.
3. Black Star Pastry
Can’t get enough of Black Star Pastry‘s indulgent watermelon cake? That’s not the only thing they’re experts at. Last year, their fruity hot cross buns with fragrant spices glazed with a shiny coat of sweet, frankincense syrup, were a hit. This year, treat yourself to traditional hot cross buns, along with indulgent chocolate hot cross buns, made with dark chocolate chips. Order on their website.
3. Brickfields
Brickfields’ next-level hot cross buns have been an Easter staple for many years. The classic buns come with a little extra zing, filled with currants, candied oranges, apricots, and cranberries along with a blend of spices from cinnamon to ginger.
4. Flour and Stone
Flour and Stones‘ delightful HCBs will transport you straight to the streets of Italy. Image a decadent rosemary-infused brioche, fragrant cardamom, cinnamon, and clove spices, packed with dried fruit and a light dusting of confit orange for an extra kick. Yum. You can place your orders on their website.
5. Saga
When it comes to hot cross buns, Saga is one you just have to try. Andy Bowdy’s ever-popular hot cross buns are served with a spiced brioche, soaked in a rich concoction of brandy, whisky, and amaro, filled with dried fruit and citrus peels, and baked to perfection. Head down to Enmore and get your hands on some — you won’t be disappointed.
6. Bourke Street Bakery
Bourke Street Bakery serves delicious hot cross buns, and with thousands of batches sold every year, it’s safe to say they’re among the best the city has to offer. Packed with juicy sultanas, the buns are finished with a golden shine. You can enjoy them toasted or slathered in butter. This year, they’re even dishing out a full hot cross loaf, because why not? Pre-order on their website.