Hot cross buns:
Cuisine de France
50 cent each
These were selling in our local Spar at 50 cent each or 4 for €2 which, as keen maths students will be able to work out, offers absolutely no savings for the bulk buy so why even mention it? Ridiculous marketing strategies aside, these buns have a lovely spicy cinnamon kick and the citrusy, mixed-peel flavours are quite intense. They have a freshness lacking in some of the competition. They are also very bready – as you might expect from a company which made is name making bread. We would have liked some more raisins, mind you.
Verdict:Pleasant and fresh
***
Marks Spencer Classic
€3 for 12, 25 cent each
Marks & Spencer make it very clear on the packaging that these “classic” buns are made with “a new recipe” which made us wonder what was wrong with the old recipe? In truth these are nice tand airy. While they lack the strong citrusy flavours to be found elsewhere – something of a minus – they are not as cloyingly sweet as some of their rivals which is very much to their credit. With two packets selling for €3 they are competitively priced.
Verdict:Light and airy
***
Dunnes Baker's Basket
€1.50 for six
The packet is supposed to contain four buns but we got two extra free.
We’re not entirely sure this is a good thing as we were not overly impressed and found eating even one heavy going. It is not bad by any means but we suspect it is struggling with its identity and couldn’t decide if it is bun or bread. It is very dry and lacking somewhat in the flavour department and the slightly sticky glaze on top is a bit odd. There are loads of sultanas in the mix which is to its credit but the slightly bitter aftertaste is less so.
Verdict:Doughy
**
Tesco Hot Cross Buns €1.50 for 6, 25 cent each
We liked these Tesco buns a lot. They come down clearly on the bun side of the fence and are pleasingly sweet. There are loads of juicy raisins. The orange and lemon flavours are lovely although people who have issues with mixed peel – and there are apparently many of you – might want to steer clear. They bread is white rather than brown, which pleased us, and the crosses on top of each one was easy to pick away and plesantly chewy. They are also the cheapest buns reviewed. While they are the same price as the M&S option, the latter was on special offer and two packets were required to get them at the cheaper price.
Verdict:Top notch
****
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