Bendigo was the place to be on March 14, when bakeries from across Australia gathered to compete for the titles of Australia’s Best Hot Cross Bun and Australia’s Best Vanilla Slice.
It was a not-to-be-missed event, with Hungie Fangs Artisan Bakery from Cobram, Victoria, coming out victorious in the Best Vanilla Slice competition.
“Hungie Fangs is incredibly proud to announce we have taken out Australia’s Best Vanilla Slice 2026 at the Victorian Baking Show!” the bakery shared to Instagram following the win.
“A massive congratulations to our team… we couldn’t be prouder! And of course a huge thank you to all our amazing customers who support us every single day.”
Whittlesea Bakery claimed the Australia’s Best Hot Cross Bun title. It was the second major title in the past 12 months for the bakery, after they won Australia’s Best Sausage Roll in 2025.
North End Bakehouse, which has held the Australia’s Best Vanilla slice title for the past three years and Hot Cross Bun title for two years, shared they were, “a little sad not to be bringing the big trophies home this year.”
“…But could not be happier to see some of our best bakery friends proudly taking home the top awards.
“So proud to have our names beside yours for these awards.”
In addition to their Vanilla Slice title, Hungie Fangs Artisan Bakery also took home first place for the 680g White Hi-Top Half Married (2 piece), 450g Grain Cob (baked on a tray), and two White Fancy Rolls.
The two major competitions were held as part of the 2026 Victoria Baking Show, which proved to be incredibly popular once again.
Preparations are now underway for the South Australian Baking Show, which is anticipated to take place in May.
The full list of 2026 Victoria Baking Show winners can be found here.