One-a-penny, two-a-penny...

HOT CROSS BUNS!!!!!

I want them FRESH from a BAKERY, plucked out of the glass case!

All I seem to find are hard, dense, 6-packs that have been sitting on the shelf too long & the plastic wrap has smeared the gaggingly sweet powdered-sugar & water iced cross into oblivion.

Am I wrong or did there once exist a version that had a not-overly sweet custard-like cross adorning the top?

I also dislike the faux version that has not a whisper of sweet spices laced throughout the dough.

Anybody know a source?

I'm jonesing.....

You don't mention where you are, but check out Bridgeport Bakery:


Bridgeport Bakery
2907 S Archer Ave
(773) 523-1121

Driving past Kay's in Forest Park today, I noticed a sign for fresh hot cross buns daily through lent. The sign listed about six or seven flavors, the only one of which I can remember right now is apricot.

Kay's Bakery
7332 West Madison
Forest Park
(708)366-3669

Kristen

I love 'em, too. Closest thing to a heritage food for my WASP family, and my Dad even sings the little ditty. Swedish Bakery is where I found them recently. They did have the sugary topping, though.

I noticed hot cross buns, just like you describe, earlier today at Three Tarts Bakery in Northfield. They had them in a plastic bag, but they bake everything on the premises. I'm sure you can place an order for them and they'll be baked fresh just for you.

Three Tarts is an excellent bakery. Their specialties include breads (including croissants and cranberry nut bread), pear frangipane tarts, shortbread cookies, linzer cookies, sandwiches and salads (pre-made at lunchtime and made to order), and lots more.

Three Tarts Bakery
301 South Happ Road
Northfield 60093
MAP
847.446.5444 phone

I'm not late in reply, I'm actually quite early for 2008.
Try Reuter's on Grand & Harlem, those are tasty. Also Oven Fresh at Harlem & Foster, and possibly Oak Mill (Oakton & Milwaukee, Belmont & Harlem or Lawrence & Harlem, your best bet being the one on Oakton).