Award-winning hot cross buns strike again

An Auckland bakery chain's hot cross buns have risen to claim a top industry award for the second year in a row - and expect to shift tens of thousands of them this Easter.

Daily Bread took out the 'Perfect Classic' title again in the Great NZ Hot Cross Bun Competition run by Baking NZ (Baking Industry of NZ Association).

The award has meant more people coming into stores to try one, said Tim Khoptiuk, manager for the Daily Bread Federal St store.

“They were a hit even before the award to be honest, now it's just a stamp of approval.”

The first award led to a significant increase in sales which were “insane” and “crazy” especially in the lead up to Easter said Kieran Evans, Daily Bread operations manager.

“We kinda thought that they would choose someone else this year, but I guess our buns were the best.”

Khoptiuk said staff across the stores have been alerted as they anticipate being “slammed” with customers,

Sales of six-pack hot cross bun boxes reached tens of thousands last year and are expected to grow to 30,000.

Evans says they will definitely be trying for a third win in a row in 2024.

“It’s been so awesome to have two years, three years would be great. So, maybe watch this space.”

Hot cross bun sales are due to end on Easter weekend but could be extended depending on demand levels.