This year, I embarked on the delicious yet challenging mission of identifying the finest hot cross buns available, consuming a substantial array of these seasonal delights. Hot cross buns, with their fruity and spiced profiles, are a cherished Easter tradition, and after rigorously testing more than 20 varieties from various supermarkets and bakeries, Waitrose's selection emerged as exceptional.
Waitrose's Diverse Hot Cross Bun Range
Waitrose offers an extensive hot cross bun lineup, catering to all preferences and budgets. The range includes the affordable essential classic buns, priced at just 25p each, as well as more indulgent flavours such as white chocolate and lemon. Through meticulous taste testing, two standout options were identified, making them must-buys for your next grocery trip. Here is a detailed overview of my top recommendations from Waitrose.
Waitrose Leckford Fruit & Seed Hot Cross Bun
In a season often associated with decadence, a touch of wholesomeness is welcome, especially when it doesn't compromise on flavour. The Waitrose Leckford fruit & seed hot cross bun achieves this perfectly by incorporating seeds and using dough made partly with flour from Waitrose's regeneratively farmed estate, Leckford Farm in Hampshire.
Upon slicing them open, these buns are packed with traditional ingredients like sultanas, sweetened dried sliced cranberries, and currants, but they also feature pumpkin and sunflower seeds, adding a nutritious crunch. The inclusion of mixed peel in the dough provides a more sophisticated, adult-oriented sweetness and texture that truly comes alive when toasted.
Waitrose Free From Hot Cross Buns
For those with dietary restrictions, Waitrose's gluten-free hot cross buns ensure no one misses out on the Easter treat. In my assessment, I could barely discern a difference with these buns, which I rated as the best gluten-free option available.
These buns are plump and attractively presented, with a well-flavoured dough and a balanced sweetness. The sultanas, raisins, and currants are soaked in orange, making them juicy and delectable, resulting in a gluten-free hot cross bun that genuinely holds its own against traditional varieties.
If you're planning a supermarket visit over the bank holiday weekend, it's also useful to check the opening times for major UK supermarkets from Good Friday through to Easter Monday to ensure you don't miss out on these seasonal favourites.
