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3rd April 2026
01:32pm BST
Well, technically it also means chocolate eggs, roast dinners, and an uptick in pastel tableware. But for those of us with a soft spot for seasonal bakes, the arrival of hot cross buns is the real celebration.
These sweet, spiced, fruit-studded buns are only around for a short window each year, and we’re not wasting a minute.
Whether you like yours toasted with butter or straight from the bag, these are some of the top spots around the country serving the best hot cross buns this Easter.
Galway
This Galway spot is definitely up there with the best bakeries in the country, and the constant queue outside the door is clear evidence of that.
From classic pastries like croissants and pain suis, to even sweeter treats like cruffins and honey french toast, it's hard to refrain from trying ever single thing on offer here.
And now, because of the time of year that it is, they are also serving up delicious hot cross buns.
These bad boys are bound to fly off the shelves, so don't wait too long before going to try one.
Magpie opens Wednesday-Friday 8.30-3, and 10-3 over the weekend.
Dublin
The self proclaimed buttery love child of Proper Order Coffee Company, No Messin' Bakery does exactly what it says; no messin'. So it's no wonder that they would be picking up the Easter mantle by dropping some fresh hot cross buns for the people of Dublin 7 and beyond.
No Messin' will only deal with seasonal, fresh, and local ingredients when creating their pastries, and it is immediately obvious from that first bite, so you know the hot cross buns are nothing short of elite.
The delicious treats from No Messin can only be found within Proper Coffee at Haymarket in Smithfield.
Cork
Strap in for this one...
The Grumpy Bakers are dishing out some delectable, unique, hot cross buns this Easter time.
These buns of goodness are filled with their minced meat filling, full of all the best whiskey, stout, milk and butter.
Served toasted with butter and homemade jam, you seriously can't miss this, and with locations in both Cork City Centre and Midleton - you have no excuse!
Open 7.30-4 Wednesday-Friday, and 8-4 over the weekend.
Belfast
Everything is made in-house, organic and local at this bakery on Ormeau Road in Belfast - and these stunning HCB's are no exception.
These perfect creatures are being dished out everyday until the end of easter, and they're certainly not something you'd want to miss.
Bread and Banjo opens weekdays from 8-3 and weekends from 10-3.
Multiple locations nationwide
Shiny, buttery, and super delicious - the hot cross buns being dished out by BowesRyan are the perfect treat to get your hands on over the Easter weekend.
This classic Irish bakery does things the right way, and with several locations across Ireland, including Limerick, Dundalk, Naas, Mullingar, Knock, and Roscrea, they give plenty opportunity to tear a bite and try them out.
Opening hours vary, check their website.
Offaly
This stunning, traditional bakery on Bridge Street in Tullamore has bee ahead of the posse when it comes to their hot cross buns, having been dishing them out since February.
I mean, we agree, anytime of year is a good time for a delicious HCB.
Soft, spiced, and fresh from the oven every morning - what more could you ask for.
Opened Monday-Saturday 8.30-6, and Sunday 9-4.
Greystones and Delgany, more info here
This stunning dog friendly coffee shop and drive thru in Wicklow is serving freshly baked goods made in house with a coffee roaster in the backyard.
It makes for the ideal morning, and their hot cross buns are bringing all the Easter time goodness.
Opened 7-4 on weekdays and 8-5 on weekends.
Here at Lovin, we're wishing all who celebrate a very Happy Easter. With so many Dubl spots doing them, be sure not to miss out on indulging in some toasty hot cross buns.
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