Crafers Bakehouse has officially claimed the title of South Australia’s Best Kitchener Bun, winning first place in the coveted category at this year’s South Australian Baking Show.
The Kitchener bun is a staple in South Australian bakeries, sitting proudly alongside frog cakes and Port and Crows-coloured doughnuts in the state’s hall-of-fame baked goods cabinet.
Fluffy, filled with whipped cream and fresh jam, the Baking Association of Australia takes this stuff very seriously. So seriously, in fact, that as is the annual tradition, this year they’ve set out to crown 2025’s Best Kitchener Bun.
For the last two consecutive years, Meadows bakery Pik-a-Pie has been undisputed champion. In the past, we’ve posed the question, “Can they take it out for a third time?”
But now, there’s a new champion in town, one whose accolades go beyond just the Kitchener Bun category. Crafers Bakehouse also took out Best Fruit Loaf, and second place for white block loaf.
The award, presented by the Baking Association of Australia, is part of a broader judging program that assesses baked goods across the country. The Kitchener Bun category is unique to South Australia, where the fried, cream-filled treat holds local cultural significance.
Tony Smith, Executive Officer of the Baking Association of Australia, said judging, led by head judge Stewart Latter, is conducted blind. “Exhibitors are just given a number and then that’s all the judges see. The judges come in and just see the item with a tag on it. They have set criteria they’re looking for.”
“The judges look for symmetry, fresh cream, sugar coating, and make sure the product has been fried in completely clean oil,” he said.
According to Smith, poor-quality oil or reused oil can affect the final product significantly. “Some judges can taste the oil straight away. If the oil hasn’t been changed or has been used for something else, it leaves a noticeable aftertaste.”
Products are scored out of 100 and assessed for appearance, texture, taste, and freshness. The perfect Kitchener Bun is simple and does all the basics exceptionally well. This is what set Crafers Bakehouse above the competition. “At the end of the day, it just stood out,” Smith said.
Crafers Bakehouse is a family-run artisanal bakery that brings a European ambience to its stunning shop, featuring a brick facade and exposed beam interior. Co-owners Sarah and Tristan, who have over 20 years of baking experience, opened the bakery to fill a local gap and offer fresh, traditional baked goods made daily on-site.
Since opening, Crafers Bakehouse has quickly become a beloved spot for locals, known for its commitment to giving back to the community and now a reputation for award-winning products.
The South Australian Baking Show is one of several events run annually by the association. It is open exclusively to bakeries within the state. But considering the Kitchener Bun is a born-and-bred South Aussie classic, we think Crafers have got more than just a state-best, but Australia’s Best Kitchener Bun.
Crafers Bakehouse
Where: 1/5 Main Street, Crafers
When: Monday – Friday 7am – 4pm | Saturday 7am – 3:30pm | Sunday 9am – 3pm
For more information, click here.
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