'Unnecessary!': The new hot cross bun trend grossing people out

"Why can't we leave things the way they are?" one horrified onlooker asked. 

Despite literally baring a cross on them, Hot Cross Buns apparently are not sacred. 

As social media continues giving rise to whacky food creations designed to shock, the Easter treat has been subject to creative interpretations that are far from traditional.

The latest craze is all about turning them into savoury meals, a.k.a literally using Hot Cross Buns as buns to house salty, meaty and cheesy fillings. 

From breakfast sandos with runny eggs to HCB toasties, there seem to be no bounds for the cafes, supermarkets and foodies jumping on the bandwagon. 

However, this trend has left people more queasy than intrigued, with some calling it “gross,” “unnecessary,” and “ridiculous.”

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Image: Delicious

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The Reu-bun and cheese toastie

Humble Bakery in Sydney led the charge with its innovative creation, the 'Reu-bun'. 

Priced at $12, this isn't your regular mid-morning snack. It's stuffed with all the New York deli classics; pastrami, horseradish cream, sauerkraut, pickles and mustard. 

The only saving grace is that, thankfully, they did leave out any raisins or chocolate chips, meaning it’ll taste more like a brioche bun than an actual Hot Cross Bun.

In saying that, it still has the sweet icing on top!

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Then, Coles Magazine threw its hat into the ring with an arguably more polarising recipe — maple, bacon, and egg cheese toasties using Hot Cross Buns.

And yes, they've boldly kept the sultanas in for those who really want to lean into the whole sweet/savoury flavour combo.

Over on TikTok, food content bloggers also shared their variations on the trend. Some creations include roast lamb and mint sauce, smoked streaky bacon, cheeseburgers, and BLTs.

Image: Coles Magazine

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"Looks gross"

The trend has sparked a range of reactions within the Kidspot team, mostly from traditionalists who believe it’s plain wrong. 

 "Using regular hot cross buns as a burger bun: I'd try that. Shoehorning savoury flavours into hot cross buns: No thanks," remarked Joel.

"This looks gross. Why can't we leave things the way they are? A burger is a burger, and a hot cross bun is a hot cross bun," Leah commented.

Jordanna added, "Leave my hot cross buns alone! They are just fine as they are with dried fruit. And if I want to turn them into a meal, I'll add some nut butter to them!"

"I love a food trend as much as the next person, but this is just ridiculous and unnecessary," Elly said. 

However, not everyone was ready to write them off. Some in the office said they'd try it out due to the novelty factor. 

 "I never feel the need to pimp my HCBs with anything other than butter - but I'll admit, these ones do look amazing," Nama shared.

Alexandria concluded: "I'd be down to try it! Looks pretty delicious."

Originally published as 'Unnecessary!': The new hot cross bun trend grossing people out