‘I’m obsessed’: Brisbane’s most boujee hot cross buns put to the test

From the city’s most luxurious bakeries to the supermarket, some outrageous hot cross buns are on offer this Easter. We’ve taste tested the best of the best. SEE THE VERDICT

As Easter draws near, Brisbane’s finest bakeries have rolled out their most anticipated hot cross buns of the season.

From luxurious fillings to unique twists on the traditional, we’ve sampled the best of the bunch, ranging in price from $4.50 to $10.50 per bun, to see which stand out as the ultimate Easter treat.

Here’s our verdict on the fanciest buns Brisbane has to offer.

1. Jocelyn’s Provisions

Price: $7 each

Location: 12/46 James St, Fortitude Valley

Rating: 10/10

Let’s get right to it: I would go into debt for these hot cross buns. Jocelyn’s Provisions consistently excels, and their Easter offering is no exception.

Traditional and chocolate hot cross buns from Jocelyn's Provisions. Photo: Instagram/@jocelynprovisions.

The traditional buns feature a beautifully spiced cardamom cream filling, fragrant, luxurious, and reminiscent of a comforting chai latte. But it’s the chocolate variety that truly shines, with a filling that tastes like restaurant-quality chocolate mousse, rich, velvety, and indulgent. Fluffy, fragrant, and perfectly textured, these buns strike an impeccable balance. If you only splurge on one bakery this Easter, make it Jocelyn’s.

2. Baker D Chirico

Price: $25/6-pack

Location: 18 Longland St, Newstead

Rating: 4/10

From Melbourne’s iconic Baker D Chirico, this newcomer to Queensland is making waves with its traditional and chocolate hot cross buns. However, the hype doesn’t quite match the result. The buns, which come in a pack of six, felt more like dry fruitcakes than the soft, spiced treats we expect at Easter.

Baker D Chirico's hot cross buns. Photo: Instagram/@bakerdchirico.

The chocolate version, complete with hazelnuts, adds an unexpected crunchy texture, but it strays too far from the classic hot cross bun experience.

For a more traditional flavour, the classic offering is reminiscent of what you’d expect from a high-end bakery, though it doesn’t quite hit the mark for a truly indulgent Easter treat.

A valiant effort, but not a standout in the sea of Brisbane’s buns.

3. Darvella Patisserie

Price: $4.50 each

Location: 1/37 Oxford St, Bulimba

Rating: 6/10

Known for its fanciful pastries, Darvella’s hot cross buns come with an impressive selection. The raspberry red velvet variety, however, didn’t quite live up to its promise.

While the bun was indeed red, the expected raspberry flavour was missing, leaving the experience feeling underwhelming.

Darvella's Kinder Bueno hot cross bun. Photo: Instagram/@darvellapatisserie.

On the other hand, the Kinder Bueno-filled bun was a treat, offering gooey, sweet chocolate goodness.

While delicious, it lacked the depth I was hoping for in a Kinder Bueno-inspired bun. Still, these buns are a great option if you’re after something a bit different for Easter, though they don’t quite hit the mark on luxury as other contenders.

4. Lune Croissanterie

Price: $10.50 each

Location: Burnett Lane in Brisbane CBD and Manning Street in South Brisbane

Rating: 7.8/10

Lune’s creative twist — a hot cross ‘cruffin’ — offers an intriguing, though somewhat unconventional, Easter experience. Available in traditional and chocolate custard-filled varieties, these pastries are closer to a croissant hybrid than a traditional bun. The traditional cruffin’s filling is smooth and luxurious, reminiscent of a premium vanilla slice, while the chocolate version channels a nostalgic, childhood chocolate custard.

Lune's hot cross cruffin. Photo: Instagram/@lunecroissant.

However, for purists seeking classic hot cross bun nostalgia, this pastry may not satisfy. Pastry enthusiasts, though, will certainly appreciate the innovative take.

5. Woolworths Cinnabon Hot Cross Buns

Price: $5.50/4-pack

Location: Woolworths

Rating: 9/10

For those looking for something more accessible, Woolworths has offered up a viral hit this year with its Cinnabon hot cross buns. Filled with a decadent cream cheese frosting, these buns are more akin to a dessert than the traditional spiced treat.

Woolworth's Cinnabon hot cross buns. Photo: Woolworths.com.au

When microwaved, the frosting becomes gloriously melty, creating an irresistible creamy centre. While they may not deliver the traditional hot cross bun experience, they provide an affordable and indulgent alternative for those seeking something sweet and comforting this Easter.