M&S dives into Easter preparations early with fresh hot cross bun launches in its bakery section. Named the UK’s top supermarket recently, the retailer introduces innovative flavors to its iconic range, which debuted in 1975 and now spans over a dozen varieties.

New Hot Cross Bun Flavors Launching February 18

Two exciting additions hit shelves on February 18: Red Velvet and gluten-free Apple & Brown Sugar buns.

The Red Velvet buns feature a striking red cocoa-enriched dough packed with Belgian dark chocolate chips and a creamy white chocolate filling. Priced at £3 for four, M&S suggests enjoying them straight from the pack like doughnuts.

The Apple & Brown Sugar buns belong to the Made Without Wheat collection, offering a gluten-free option at £2.80 for four. They burst with juicy fruit soaked in orange juice, candied apple pieces, and a balanced spice mix.

First Impressions from Hands-On Tasting

Apple & Brown Sugar Gluten-Free Buns

These buns expand M&S’s gluten-free offerings, following recent hits like the gluten-free Colin the Caterpillar cake. Unlike standard free-from options that stick to basics, these bring unique flavor.

They boast an enticing aroma and visually match regular buns. Sliced open, they reveal a slightly denser texture. Toasted and buttered, the taste shines—rich, fruity, with generous apple chunks, subtle spice, and a hint of sweetness. A standout for gluten-free fans.

Red Velvet Buns

Building on last year’s popular Dippy Egg buns with their custard-like filling, these deliver a deep chocolate flavor from the dough and chips. The white chocolate filling offers a creamy, icing-like texture but in modest amounts, tempering the intense sweetness.

The dark chocolate provides bitterness to balance the richness. While not surpassing the Dippy Egg variety, they appeal to chocolate lovers. One per sitting satisfies most.

Full M&S Hot Cross Bun Lineup

M&S offers 11 flavors total, blending classics and returns:

• Extremely Lemony Curd Filled (with Sicilian lemon curd and peel)
• Heat to Eat Cinn-A-Yum Buns (cinnamon with icing drizzle)
• Luxury Fruited (regular and mini)
• Collection Two Fruited
• Granny Smith Apple
• Extremely Cheesy
• Extremely Chocolatey
• Millionaire’s Mini
• Made Without (classic gluten-free)

Shoppers praise the lemon curd as a game-changer from last year.