Hot cross buns have flown off the shelves once again this Easter.
As Kiwis continue to flock to their nearest bakery or cafe every year, the debate on flavour has lingered.
The Thursday before Good Friday in 2022 was one of the busiest days of the year for bakers across the country. For Baker’s Delight Royal Oak, over 10,000 hot cross buns were baked that day alone.
In 2023, the original spiced fruit concept was the most popular among customers, although only marginally.
Spiced fruit is the traditional option, and typically contains a combination of sultanas, raisins, and glazed peel. Its mix with cinnamon, all spice, or even nutmeg has created an aroma that is reminiscent of Easter. Because 2024 is a lot less COVID-orientated, it has allowed for more Easter celebrations than the past couple of years.
Despite being the original concept, many customers have voiced their distaste for dried fruit. This has opened a market for new and innovative recipes.
Chocolate is usually the second most popular option. Different varieties have been on offer this year, including white chocolate and cranberry, orange chocolate, and dark chocolate. Similar sweet flavours include sticky date salted caramel, chocolate mud cake, and even peanut butter. When compared to the amount of original hot cross buns baked every year, chocolate varieties are two thirds as popular.
For some customers, the humble hot cross bun has provided the perfect platform to experiment with unique flavour combinations. Cheese and ham have been a popular duo on social media, creating a savoury twist. Yarrow’s (The Bakers) introduced a cheese and onion flavour for the 2024 season, which also caused quite a stir online.
Hot cross buns will remain a firm favourite for future Easter celebrations, be it in original form or in a new concept.
To read more about unique flavours and overseas trends, click here.
