Hot Cross Bun season has to be one of my favourite times of the year. The weather is crisp but still sunny, there's the promise of the Easter break just up ahead, and my days are filled with toasted, buttery, Hot Cross Buns.
As a Brisbane local, I know that this is a city that takes their bakeries — and their buns — seriously. From pillowy, fruity classics to slow-fermented sourdough versions and richer, more indulgent twists, Brisbane’s best spots are putting their own spin on tradition. Bakeries like Sprout Artisan Bakery and Baker D. Chirico draw crowds each year, while others lean into bolder flavours and techniques.
Whether you’re loyal to the classic or open to something a little different, one thing’s clear: in Brisbane, a great hot cross bun is worth seeking out. Peruse my personal favourites, below.
Jocelyn's Provisions
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Locations: Albion, James St, Camp Hill, Toowong
A true old favourite. Jocelyn's bakes their hot cross buns fresh daily, and they fly off the shelves each year. In 2026, they're bringing back both the traditional fruity kind, and chocolate version which is filled with a delicious spiced cardamom cream.
Baker D. Chirico
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Location: Newstead
For anyone of the opinion that classic is best, look no further. Ever since Melbourne Baker D. Chirico made a home in brisbane's Newstead, they've become known for their Hot Cross Buns. This year they're once again baking their classic flavour, which features a sourdough bun, baked with mixed spices, orange purée, butter, currants and sultanas. And of course, they're served with French butter.
Nodo
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Locations: CBD, Camp Hill, Carindale, Newstead, Everton Park, South Bank, West End.
Who said a Hot Cross Bun can't be (relatively) healthy? Nodo specialises in gluten free baked goods, and their buns are no exception. They've got traditional and chocolate on the menu this year, as well as a limited-edition Easter menu which features delicacies like a carrot cake donut.
Sprout Artisan Bakery
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Location: Albion, Fortitude Valley
Sprout is baking their buns fresh every day this season. On the menu is the classic spice-filled iteration, and a jazzed-up chocolate and cranberry version for those feeling a little more adventurous. Of course, you could always order both...
Darvella Patisserie
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Location: Bulimba
If you want something that's more akin to a dessert than a bun, Darvella has the solution. This year, they've devised a Chocolate Hot Cross Bun that comes loaded with white and dark chocolate chips, plus filled with your choice of Kinder Bueno or KitKat filling. For those who prefer to play it safe, there's also a traditional version spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, fresh citrus zest, and mixed with brandy-soaked fruit.
C'est du Gâteau
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Location: South Brisbane
Leave it to the French to really dial up the deliciousness on the classic Hot Cross Bun. We don't know what it is, but there's something extra good about the buns at this patisserie. They come packed with fruits and spices, and there's a custard-filled version for something truly indulgent.
Time and Temp
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Location: Albion
The buns at time and Temp are actually vegan and gluten free, but don't let that deter you. They're pillowy and fresh, with ripples of spices and candied fruit throughout, and a signature swirl on top. You can order yours with a side of Pepe Saya (or plant-based) butter, to really maximise the eating experience.
Riser Bread
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Location: Toowong
These buns are made sans the signature 'cross', but they're still worthy of an inclusion here. They're made with delicious organic fruit from Micks Nuts, and a house-made spice blend. Plus, they're vegan friendly.
Live somewhere else in Australia? We've also found the best Hot Cross Buns in Sydney, and the Best Hot Cross Buns in Melbourne, so you can get your fix.
