Over the weekend, the Victorian Baking Show 2023 took place in Bendigo for the second time. The turnout at the event was excellent, with 143 bakeries entering 590 products and entries coming in from bakeries in Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, New South Wales, and Queensland.

The Show hosts many different competitions, but two of the most hotly contested ones are the competitions for the titles of Australia’s Best Hot Cross Bun and Australia’s Best Vanilla Slice.

North End Bakehouse in Shepparton walked away with the title of Australia’s Best Vanilla Slice (Victoria), while the title of Australia’s Best Hot Cross Bun was won by Banana Boogie (South Australia).

“The Hot Cross Bun Competition is judged over several sections by two judges,” said Tony Smith, executive officer of the Baking Association of Australia, who hosted the Victorian Baking Show.

He continued, “The main thing is the judges cut one in half across from left to right, and then another on a diagonal. This allows the judges to see the fruit distribution in the bun and make sure it is evenly spread.

“Of course, there is spice aroma and then mouth feel, making sure it is fresh and doesn’t stick to the roof of your mouth.”

Banana Boogie won not only the first place in the Hot Cross Bun Competition, but also the second-place trophy.

The Best Vanilla Slice Competition is judged in a similar manner, with two judges slicing and dicing the treats to decide a winner; however, North End truly stood out from its competitors.

“This was an absolute stand out. The judges couldn’t believe how creamy the custard was, and the fondant was tempered perfectly on the top. The pastry was crisp and thin, not soggy,” Tony said.

“John Humphrey, one of the main judges—along with Stewart Latter, Chief Judge for the BAA—judged the vanilla slices and stated that sometimes it’s very hard to temper the fondant and allow it to sit perfectly on top. Along with this, some people have custard filling that leaves a gritty or grainy feeling in your mouth.

“But this was perfect!”