The shock push to BAN fancy hot cross buns from supermarkets

Whose side are you on? - by Amy Sinclair

There’s no denying that we’ve seen a sharp increase in the range of fancy hot cross varieties in recent years.

But the introduction of a range of ‘next-level’ hot cross bun flavours - including Banana & Caramel, Sticky Date & Butterscotch and White Chocolate & Raspberry - has angered some traditionalists.

The shock push to BAN fancy hot cross buns from supermarkets

One critic called the extravagant varieties a ‘bloody national disgrace’, with many saying that hot cross buns should be limited to the traditional fruit and spice recipes.

One baker has gone so far as to insist that if supermarkets want to sell quirky varieties of the ‘sacred and sacrosanct’ Easter treat, they shouldn't call them hot cross buns.

‘I'm very protective of the hot cross bun,’ author and baker Phillippa Grogan told Good Food.

‘I like the idea of bakers doing something creative and developing something new and different, but they should be called Easter buns and not hot cross buns.’

Stephanie Peatling on Twitter

However a Coles spokesperson insists the new varieties are popular, with millennials driving the need to find extravagant new flavours.

‘The introduction of new flavours to Coles' hot cross bun range is largely driven by millennials who love traditional products that have a nostalgic pull but with a modern-day twist,’ a Coles spokesman told Good Food.

‘Our customers love the new flavours, with many taking to social media to share their favourites.’

Regardless, many traditionalists aren’t holding back with their criticism - with one taking to social media recently to describe the new flavours as a ‘travesty’.

She wrote: ‘My friend sent me a picture of the latest travesty - banana and caramel hot cross buns. Show’s over folks.’

Cr Stuart James on Twitter

Another wrote: ‘Some food creations should be made illegal.’ Said a third: ‘They were on quick sale at our local supermarket. The people have spoken.’

Ouch! So which side of the hot cross bun fence are you on - traditional or fancy?

Amy Sinclair

Amy Sinclair is the editor of New Idea Food. She is a former weekly magazine editor who loves all things food, cooking and eating - especially the eating! When she's not looking after her three children, you'll find her in the kitchen or busily hiding online shopping purchases from her husband.