By Lenetia Stretton
Lover of a traditional style hot cross bun?
The west has it all. Just like the Easter Bunny our local bakers have been working hard to provide an ample supply of doughy treats to satisfy every taste bud.
Candied Bakery, Spotswood.
Long time local favourites, Candied, never disappoint. They offer a traditional style hot cross bun, without peel, with a generous distribution of fruit, a spiced glaze and a soft bun. Toasted or fresh, these hit the spot. If you want to up the ante, keep an eye on the Candied socials for when they are frying up their hot cross donuts.
Tuesday to Saturday 7am–3pm, Sunday 7:30am–3pm Hot cross buns $4.00 each or $22 for a half dozen
Cobb Lane, Yarraville
A sweet, simple hot cross bun offering, with a light fluffy bun texture, plenty of peel and flavoured with orange puree and Pepe Saya cultured butter. Perfect with your morning coffee.
Friday to Sunday 7am–12 noon
Hot cross buns $25 for a half dozen
Sourdough Kitchen, Seddon
If I had to pick a favourite, these would be it. Substantial with a dense bready texture and chewy crumb, full to the brim with juicy fruit (no peel) and a sticky glaze. When toasted they caramelise beautifully and the flavour of the fruit is enhanced.
Monday to Sunday 7am–3:30pm Hot cross buns $4 each
Gordon Street Bakery, West Footscray
The only chocolate hot cross bun offering I was able to find. A beautiful soft textured bun filled with chocolate chips, you could easily eat your way through more than one of these.
Great for families as well, if the kids (and adults) aren’t fussed on fruit or peel.
Thursday to Sunday 7:15am–1pm
OCAB, Moonee Ponds
A relative newcomer to the west side pastry scene, the team at OCAB are working hard to establish themselves as local favourites.
Their hot cross buns are pillowy and light, traditional fruit buns that are beautifully fresh. There is a hint of orange peel in there, but nothing overpowering. A beautiful start to their first hot cross bun season in Moonee Ponds.
Monday to Friday 7:30am–4pm Saturday & Sunday 8am–2pm
Hot cross buns $4 or $20 for a half dozen
Parisian Baker, Essendon
Mixed peel lovers unite! A very traditional bun with a chewy texture and great spice, this one was chock full of fruit and peels. Settle in with your coffee, paper and one of these in your hand for the perfect way to indulge on a weekend.
Monday to Saturday 7am–4pm Sunday 8am–3pm
Hot cross buns $3.50 or $18 for a half dozen