'It was pretty ridiculous': Shock as hot cross buns hit supermarket shelves on Boxing Day

It is just two sleeps after Christmas and it seems that some supermarket shelves are getting ready for the next holiday.

A number of social media users have shared images of hot cross buns after noticing they had appeared in some stores.

Twitter was awash with fiery debate with many arguing the sale of the buns has come too early.

Alica Sanza shared an image on Tuesday after she spotted the treats at the Wonthaggi Woolworths in Victoria.

"It was pretty ridiculous; they were above the Christmas fruit cakes," Ms Sanza told Yahoo7.

"Nearly all the bakery section was sold out except fresh hot cross buns on Boxing Day."

But the big supermarkets say this is not uncommon.

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A Woolworths spokesperson said: "Some of our in store bakers have simply been perfecting their wares ahead of the official in store launch next week".

"With Easter earlier this year, we know many of them have been hopping to meet their customers requests to get their favourite hot cross buns back on the shelves.

"We are proud to share that customers can officially look forward to freshly baked hot cross buns in all Woolworths stores nationwide, with a brand new variety this year, from January 2."

And Coles were in agreement with their industry rival that the early sale of the Easter treat was justified.

“Hot cross buns are a clear customer favourite so we’re excited to offer six delicious varieties across our stores from early January," a Coles spokesperson told Yahoo7.

"As some stores are keen for the delicious scent of freshly baked hot cross buns to fill the aisles, some will start baking them from Boxing Day for their customers.

"Coles customers can choose from traditional, made with 100 per cent Australian fruit (regular or mini sized), Fruit Free, Chocolate, Apple and Cinnamon or Gluten Free.”