The dusting of pastry flakes outside Banana Boogie are just one indication of how busy it can become. And it is the vanilla slice, as well as pies and sausage rolls, that has helped boost the bakery’s profile and brought people up the hill. Crunch into the pastry top and bottom and you’ll understand: it is the crispest we found. 4/10 Main Rd, Belair; phone: 08 8278 4299.

Are you a traditionalist or more adventurous type? Either way The Village Baker has you covered with two styles of vanilla slice: one with classic fondant icing, the other a tangy passionfruit fudge. Both versions have the good stuff underneath, with a nicely flaking pastry top and bottom, and a thick layer of extra-creamy custard in between. Glenside and Black Forest; thevillagebaker.com.au.

No prizes for the name, but this family-run bakery could easily make the list for its pies (chunky steak braised in Coopers stout) as well as the perfect vanilla slice. Top and bottom are planks of crisp multi-layered pastry. In between is a creamy, smooth vanilla custard, just stiff enough to hold its shape until it comes under pressure. Swoon. 246 Seacombe Rd, Seacliff Park; bakebakery.com.au.

You’ll need two hands and an extra-wide mouth to go anywhere near eating the monster stacked slice from this ultra-friendly bakery. It’s not just the size, however, that appeals – the custard cream is just sweet enough and the three biscuit layers still have some crunch. Let the slice de-chill for 10 minutes before eating. Shop 7/1 Cliff St, Glenelg East; baysidebakery.com.au.

On a tour of bakeries from Adelaide through to the south-east, the double-decker vanilla slice at this roomy bakery on the main road of Penola stood out. It’s all about the balance, with a layer of crisp, flaky pastry through the middle adding an extra level of interest without overwhelming the creamy custard filling. 32 Church St, Penola; facebook.com/windarabakery.