Coles launches controversial new Hot Cross Buns flavours

Coles shoppers have expressed upset after the retailer launched a bizarre savoury take on the traditional Hot Cross Buns.

Supermarket giant Coles has divided shoppers with the launch of a controversial new product that could have easily be mistaken for an April Fools’ prank.

The retailer has introduced three new limited-edition Hot Cross Buns flavours – including a savory variety that has divided Aussies.

Coles Special Burger Sauce Hot Cross Buns are priced at $5 for a 4-pack and come complete with pickle pieces and cheese – which has sparked a fierce debate over whether a condiment belongs in the beloved Easter treat.

But there’s also two new sweet varieties, Red Velvet Hot Cross Buns and Carrot Cake Hot Cross Buns, both $6 for a 4-pack, which are both filled with a cream cheese frosting.

Coles General Manager for Bakery Kate Roff said the supermarket is always looking for new ways to excite customers with quality and innovative products.

“Each year we try to tap into new flavour trends to give customers a fun, modern twist on a hot cross bun, such as our new Coles Special Burger Sauce Hot Cross Buns,” she said.

“Based on the phenomenal success of our limited edition VEGEMITE hot cross buns, savoury hot cross buns are the new craze.”

Coles has launched Hot Cross Buns in the flavour of its popular Special Burger Sauce.

She stressed Coles “will always have our traditional fruit and chocolate varieties” but added it was “important” to offer customers other options, adding its why Coles believes savoury buns have been “such a hit”.

News of Coles Special Burger Sauce Hot Cross Buns were leaked by food blogger Foodie Mumma Ren on Monday and swiftly sent shoppers into a frenzy.

The package displays a bottle of Coles fan-favourite condiment and promises a delicious savoury bun “with special burger sauce and pickle pieces”.

There are two new sweet Hot Cross Buns flavours added to the line up this year too. Picture: Supplied

Dozens of her followers claimed they weren’t keen on the thought of a sauce-flavoured twist on the classic food item.

“Yep…. that’s a no for me,” one shopper wrote in a comment.

“No I think I will pass on these,” another said.

Someone else felt the supermarket had got a bit too carried away.

“I think it’s starting to get a little bit out of hand now,” they wrote.

The controversial new flavour was leaked by a food blogger. Picture: Foodie Mamma Ren

Another person said they were cautiously interested in sampling the product.

“I’m scared but also intrigued,” they said in a comment.

Many others agreed however the creation was completely unnecessary.

“Just because they can create monstrosities like this, doesn't mean they should,” one said.

“My 12-year-old who will eat almost anything just gagged. Guess they are not for her,” one parent wrote.

There were however a few people who said they would be keen to give them a go.

“As some who detests a normal hot cross bun I’d love these,” one person said.

The Special Burger Sauce Hot Cross Buns will be available in packs of four at Coles locations across the country.