Hot cross buns have once again appeared on supermarket shelves immediately after Christmas, sparking a lively debate among Australians. While some shoppers welcome the return of this iconic treat, others question its early reappearance.
A Familiar Treat Appears Early
Aldi, Woolworths, and Coles have started selling their hot cross buns as early as Boxing Day. At Aldi, Baker’s Life Gluten-Free Hot Cross Buns are now available in fruit and chocolate flavours. This move has divided shoppers, as many are still in the midst of their Christmas celebrations.
Kati Keksi, who runs a gluten-free Facebook page, shared a photo of the buns. She asked followers if they were “happy, ambivalent, irrationally angry or legitimately angry” about the timing of the release.
An Aldi spokesperson explained the decision to stock hot cross buns early:
“As one of the most popular seasonal ranges in stores, each year we experience increasing demand for Hot Cross Buns to be available earlier in the year, which is why we are proud our popular Baker’s Life Hot Cross Buns are in stores from the 26 December 2024.”
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The spokesperson added:
“Our customers can also look forward to the addition of some new exciting varieties closer to Easter! Keep an eye out in catalogue or hop on our website to see what delicious treats will be available.”
Woolworths Adds Flair to the Classic
Woolworths has reintroduced fan favourites like the Fairy Bread and Cadbury Caramilk hot cross buns. The Fairy Bread flavour has been fine-tuned for 2024.
Donald Keith, Woolworths Hot Cross Bun Expert and Bakery Merchandise Manager, said:
“Customers could not get enough of the Fairy Bread flavour last year – it was a fan favourite – and we’re excited to be bringing even more of them to shelves this year. Our bakery team worked hard to fine-tune the recipe and deliver an even fluffier dough with white chocolate chips. We want customers to enjoy all of the elements that remind them of Fairy Bread, putting a modern twist on an old classic.”
Keith highlighted the wide variety available this year:
“When it comes to Hot Cross Buns, Aussies love all different varieties both traditional and non-traditional, which is why we’ve brought a range to stores this year that serves up something for everyone.”
Shoppers can find flavours like Traditional Fruit, Mini Fruit, Fruitless, Brioche Chocolate, Apple & Cinnamon, and various gluten-free options.
Coles Combines Tradition with Purpose
Coles has also joined the hot cross bun frenzy, adding a charitable twist. The supermarket will donate 20 cents from every six or nine-pack sold to Redkite, supporting families facing childhood cancer.
Brad Girman, Coles General Manager Commercial, Bakery, Dairy and Frozen, said:
“We’re incredibly proud of our 11-year partnership with Redkite, through which we’ve supported more than 8,500 families dealing with some of life’s toughest challenges. We’re turning a delicious treat into a powerful way to make a difference, helping to fund vital services for children and their families.”
Redkite Chief Executive Officer Monique Keighery emphasised the impact of the donations:
“Coles hot cross buns have become an eagerly anticipated December tradition, with the donation per pack playing a crucial role in funding our national family support services. This translates to counselling for children and families, financial assistance for everyday necessities like groceries and fuel, and guidance to help families navigate the unimaginable world of childhood cancer.”
Mixed Reactions from Shoppers
The early arrival of hot cross buns has sparked diverse opinions. Some shoppers embrace their availability throughout the year. One customer commented, “Makes me so happy to see these at any time of year! We love them.”
Others were less enthusiastic. A shopper declared, “Ridiculous, at least let’s get Christmas over with first.”
Another customer remarked, “They’re getting earlier and earlier! Just make them year-round at this point!”
Despite the debate, some see the joy these treats bring as a positive. One person said, “I don’t care, if it makes people happy, let them have it. We need more of that in the world.”
A Year-Round Favourite?
Hot cross buns have become a perennial topic of discussion in Australia. While their traditional association with Easter remains, supermarkets continue to experiment with timing and flavours to cater to changing consumer demands. Whether you’re a fan of the early release or prefer to wait until Easter, one thing is certain—hot cross buns are here to stay.