Australia's best hot cross buns revealed... and you'll never guess the winner!

With Easter just around the corner, the hunt for the perfect hot cross bun is on! The blind taste test results are in and consumer advocacy group CHOICE has ranked this year's tastiest hot cross buns.

With taste buds at the ready, CHOICE's panel of hot cross bun critics sampled 29 varieties, meticulously evaluating each bun's flavour, appearance, aroma, and texture.

The blind taste test

Covering an extensive range from national supermarkets to specialty stores like Bakers Delight and Costco, CHOICE left no bun unturned in their quest to find the perfect Easter treat. Whether you crave the classic fruit-filled delight or prefer the decadence of chocolate, CHOICE has curated a diverse selection to satisfy all bun lovers.

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This year's winner for the best-tasting hot cross bun goes to none other than supermarket giant Woolworths, taking home the top honour for their deliciously fruity bun.

Here's who made the top honours list.

The Winner

Woolworths Luxurious Richly Fruited Hot Cross Buns

Taking the crown with a whopping 72% score, Woolworths Luxurious Richly Fruited Hot Cross Buns captured the hearts (and tastebuds) of the judges.

Experts praised the bun for its glossy appearance, even cross, and pleasant aroma upon breaking. They appreciated the addition of citrus peel and cranberries for added flavour.

Another expert noted the bun's soft texture, enjoyable chew, and subtle aroma, which intensified when toasted. They also commended its balanced spice level and commended the bun's toast-ability and fruit fruit distribution.

Runner-Up

Woolworths Traditional Fruit Hot Cross Buns

Not far behind, Woolworths Traditional Fruit Hot Cross Buns snagged second place with a respectable 67% rating.

Experts loved the balance of spice and plump fruits in the buns.

Third Place

Bakers Delight Traditional Fruit Hot Cross Buns

Rounding out the top three, Bakers Delight Traditional Fruit Hot Cross Buns claimed the bronze medal with a solid 65% score.

Judges commended its balanced texture and mouthfeel, especially when toasted.

For chocolate lovers

If chocolate is your Easter weakness, CHOICE has you covered with the top-rated chocolate hot cross buns.

The Winner

Bakers Delight Choc Chip Hot Cross Buns

Scoring 70%, Bakers Delight Choc Chip Hot Cross Buns emerged victorious in the chocolate category.

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Experts praised its perfect blend of spice and chocolatey goodness.

Runner-Up

Woolworths Hot Cross Buns Made With Cadbury Milk Chocolate Chips

Coming in at a close second with a 68% rating, Woolworths' chocolatey offering impressed judges with its sweet aroma and evenly distributed chocolate chunks.

Third Place

Bakers Life Chocolate Hot Cross Buns

Rounding off the chocolate bun rankings, Bakers Life Chocolate Hot Cross Buns clinched third place with a commendable 58% score. While it lacked in aroma, judges appreciated its generous serving of chocolate chips.

Gluten-Free buns were also ranked, and with a CHOICE score of 64% Woolworths Free From Gluten Fruit Hot Cross Buns and Woolworths Free From Gluten Chocolate Hot Cross Buns won the category.

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