Hot cross buns have been flying off the shelves since they dropped in early March. And while the supermarket varieties are a fine (and affordable) choice, there are a few bakeries and cafes in Johannesburg that put in the hard work to bring a handcrafted twist to this enduring Easter classic.
We’ve listed some of the best venues where you can order yours right now.
FRESH EARTH FOOD STORE
Fresh Earth Food Store in Blairgowrie has mastered its take on a hot cross bun that’s sensitive to dietary needs. This café bakery has a well-earned reputation for its conscious approach to dining. Their hot cross buns this year are gluten-free and available in original and chocolate with a unique blend of traditional spices and the all-important touch of cinnamon. READ MORE
When: Monday to Thursday, from 7:30am to 5pm; Friday, 7:30am to 4pm; Saturday, 7am to 5pm & Sunday, 7am to 3pm
Where: 74 Hillcrest Ave, Blairgowrie, Johannesburg
BOOTLEGGER COFFEE COMPANY
Bootlegger is going all-out this year and embracing the Easter feels with a limited HCB menu running until 20 April. They’ve tweaked tradition with a French toast serve where crispy bacon is sandwiched in freshly baked hot cross buns. A drizzle of syrup keeps the sweetness Perfect for a quick brunch pick-me-up! READ MORE
When: Daily, various times
Where: Various venues, see here
FOURNOS BAKERY
With 18 stores sprinkled throughout Gauteng, you won’t have to travel far to get your hands on Fournos Bakery’s hot cross buns. The bakery doesn’t compromise on quality and invests in the finest, natural ingredients for the best flavour in baking. An all-rounder in their field, Fournos’ HCBs are fresh out of the oven daily and soft, spicy, and gloriously sticky all at once. READ MORE
When: Various times
Where: Various venues, see here
BROODKOP
Try something different this Easter with one of Chef Corvin Pietersen at Broodkop’s traditional style HCB that comes laden with a mix of all spice, clove, and nutmeg, unsalted butter, and hand glazed with apricot jam to finish. These beauties are only available via pre-order for delivery on 7 April. READ MORE
When: Delivery on 7 April. Order online here
BLACK FOREST BAKERY
You can try Black Forest Bakery’s hot cross buns at their store in Parkmore, and bakery in Braamfontein this season. The artisanal German bakery is doing variations in original for the purists, and chocolate and cranberry for the rulebreakers. READ MORE
When: Various times
Where: Parkmore | Braamfontein
OREGANO BAKERY
Oregano Bakery and Pantry pull in a regular crowd thanks to their uncomplicated and super tasty dishes and bakes. For Easter, they’re pumping out great hot cross buns baked daily at their venue in Linden until 10 April. Expect a more rustic variety that’s baked with a lot of heart. READ MORE
When: Tuesday to Friday, from 8am to 4pm; Saturday & Sunday, 8am to 12pm
Where: 71 7th St, Linden, Randburg
