Ah, hot cross bun season. That glorious time of year when it’s socially acceptable – no, expected – to eat spiced carbs for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Whether you’re a purist who won’t stray from sultanas and spice, or a rebel reaching for choc chip or sticky date, the shelves are stacked and the stakes are high. With supermarkets unleashing wild new flavours faster than you can say “toasted with butter,” the humble bun has become a battleground for taste buds. So, in the name of journalism (and gluttony), we took on the deliciously difficult task of sampling the full spread of Woolworths’ hot cross bun range. Some soared. Some… well, let’s just say they were more “hot mess” than hot cross. From the classics to the curveballs, here’s our definitive ranking – because not all buns are created equal, and your Easter deserves only the best.

8. Woolworths Easter Extra Soft Fruitless Hot Cross Buns
If you don’t like dried fruit, these are your ticket to the hot cross bun party – though you might be gatecrashing. As delicious. food director Lucy Nunes says, “If you don’t like dried fruit, then hot cross buns are just not what you’re after.” And honestly? She’s not wrong. These buns are soft and mild, but for purists, the lack of fruit is a bit of a head-scratcher.

7. Woolworths Easter Free From Gluten Fruit Hot Cross Buns
It’s great to see more gluten-free options on the shelves – inclusivity tastes good – but these come with a caveat. “I did find these a little dry compared to the normal buns,” says Lucy, though she’s quick to add that “toasted with some butter, they were mighty fine.” Basically, give them a little TLC and they’ll love you back.

6. Woolworths Easter Chocolate Hot Cross Buns
Chocolate in a hot cross bun? It’s not exactly traditional, but Lucy reckons “the citrus and spices work well with the chocolate flavour.” Her kids gave these a thumbs-up, but she wanted a bit more punch – “they were not chocolaty enough.” Sweet tooths might be satisfied, but serious chocoholics may be left wanting.

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5. Woolworths Easter Indulgent Hot Cross Buns Filled With Biscoff
Biscoff lovers, assemble – these were made for you. But take note: according to Lucy, “I do love Biscoff but it is quite strong and in my opinion, it overpowered the bun.” So if you want subtle spice with your sticky spread, maybe give these a miss. If you’re all about that caramelised biscuit life, dive in face first.

4. Woolworths Easter Cadbury Caramilk Hot Cross Buns
Caramilk fans, this one’s your golden child. These buns are studded with creamy white chocolate chips and bring full dessert energy to the breakfast table. They don’t hold back – nor should they. Think gooey, rich and slightly unhinged – and we mean that in the best way.

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3. Woolworths Indulgent Apple & Cinnamon Hot Cross Buns
If an apple scroll and a hot cross bun had a baby, it would be this deliciously fluffy number. “Apples and cinnamon are a great combo,” says Lucy, adding, “paired with the creamy custard centre and the fluffy textured bun, they reminded me of apple cinnamon scrolls.” A warm, comforting, practically pudding-like pick that deserved its spot near the top.

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2. Woolworths Easter Richly Fruited Hot Cross Buns
Rich, fragrant and unapologetically fruity – these buns mean business. “The orange really comes through,” notes Lucy, and she’s spot on. With currants, cranberries and candied peel, these buns feel festive in all the right ways. For those who like their buns dense, sticky and just a bit fancy.

1. Woolworths Easter Traditional Hot Cross Buns
Soft, spicy, fruity – the classic never goes out of style. “While all the new flavours are fun,” says Lucy, “I do love a classic hot cross bun for its hint of spice and citrus and its fluffy and slightly chewy texture. These just tick all the boxes.” And tick they do. Whether you’re toasting, buttering, or just tearing straight into the pack, nothing beats tradition done right.

Related story: 28 essential hot cross bun recipes you need to make this Easter