Kitsilano’s best hot cross bun?

These Easter treats are no longer two a penny, but they are available at several Kitsilano bakeries.

What makes a good hot cross bun? Hot cross buns, traditional sweet buns marked with a symbolic cross, are brioche-like and contain currants, raisins and sometimes candied fruit. The Guardian reviewed hot cross bun innovators this year and tended to prefer the conventional treats – perfectly fruited, yeasted, sticky-topped buns – as opposed to novel flavour infusions and cake-like renditions.

The ideal hot cross bun

Here are their detailed findings on hot cross bun excellence – determined by a panel of media/foodie judges.  A good hot cross bun should be light and soft, and substantial but not doughy when pulled apart for toasting. A sticky top is a must. A mild, but balanced spice undertone in the bread is mandatory. Fruit must be present but not crowded. Natural currants and raisins are preferable to garish red, green and yellow glace/zest.

Kitsilano bakeries carrying hot cross buns

Do you agree? Try a hot cross bun from a Kits bakery and weigh in. Terra Breads has a rather pricey hot cross bun for $1.95 each. Cobs is selling them for $6.75 a six pack, or $1.30 each. Uprising Breads has them for a meagre $5.25 for 6 (Yes, you can pre-order for Easter); $1.25 each. Whole Foods/Capers definitely has them too, but someone in my house ate them too quickly for me to get a look at the package.

 

Last modified: April 3, 2012