Easter Hot Cross Bun Taste Test: Ranking 7 Supermarket Brands
As Easter approaches, the quest for the perfect hot cross bun becomes a delicious tradition. We embarked on a thorough taste test, sampling pre-packaged hot cross buns from seven leading supermarkets: Tesco, Aldi, M&S, Sainsbury's, Morrisons, Asda, and Lidl. Each bun was judged based on price, flavor, shelf life, and nutritional value to determine which offers the best value and taste for your Easter celebrations.
M&S Luxury Fruited Hot Cross Buns
Priced at £2.40 for four, or 60p per bun, these M&S buns come with a four-day shelf life. Described as rich and aromatic, they are packed with fruits soaked in M&S Luxury Gold Tea, mixed peel, and warming spices. Nutritionally, each bun contains 228 calories, 1.4g saturated fat, 19.6g sugars, and 0.22g salt.
These buns feature sticky tops and a lighter, fluffier dough compared to others. The raisins are large, juicy, and full of flavor, with an abundant quantity. However, they were deemed less satisfying than denser options, earning a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Morrisons Hop to It Hot Cross Buns
At 97p for six, or 16p each, Morrisons buns boast an eight-day shelf life. They are made with juicy vine fruit, orange and lemon peel, and seasoned spices. Each bun has 180 calories, 0.3g saturated fat, 16.5g sugars, and 0.31g salt.
These buns are notably chewy, with flavorful fruit but a disappointingly dry dough. They are smaller and more bready, resembling traditional tea cakes rather than sweet, cake-like buns. As a result, they received a low score of 2 out of 5 stars.
Lidl Luxury Hot Cross Buns
Costing £1.39 for four, or 35p per bun, Lidl's offering has a five-day shelf life. Described as delightfully soft, spiced buns bursting with orange-soaked fruit and finished with honey, each contains 202 calories, 0.9g saturated fat, 20.2g sugars, and 0.28g salt.
Known for its bakery, Lidl delivered with dense, chewy dough that wasn't dry, offering the right sweetness level. Sticky tops and plenty of fruit were highlights, though a distinct orange flavor was noted, which may not appeal to all. These buns earned 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Aldi Hot Cross Buns
Priced at 99p for six, or 17p each, Aldi buns have an eight-day shelf life and are simply described as lightly spiced. Nutritionally, each bun contains 180 calories, 0.3g saturated fat, 16.3g sugars, and 0.31g salt.
The dough was excellent, tasting delicious even without an abundance of plump, juicy raisins. These buns are a good size, with minimal stickiness on top and a great texture. They didn't require much butter due to their moistness, scoring a high 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Asda Exceptional Extra Fruity Hot Cross Buns
At £1.40 for four, or 35p per bun, Asda's buns have a five-day shelf life. They are prepared with plump vine fruits and Vostizza currants, offering a delicately spiced flavor. Each bun contains 232 calories, 1.5g saturated fat, 20g sugars, and 0.2g salt.
These buns are very soft with sticky tops, but the currants lacked juiciness and flavor compared to others, which was a drawback. They received a moderate rating of 3 out of 5 stars.
Tesco Hot Cross Buns
Costing £1.35 for six, or 23p each, Tesco buns provide great value. They have a balanced flavor profile with a satisfying texture, making them a top contender in our test.
Overall Verdict
Our taste test revealed two clear favorites that were not the most expensive options. The Aldi and Tesco hot cross buns, priced at just 17p and 23p respectively, stood out for their packed flavor, ideal texture, and excellent value for money. While both are highly recommended, the Tesco buns slightly edged out as the overall favorite, though the difference was minimal. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a late-night snack, these budget-friendly choices are sure to enhance your Easter festivities.
