Pump Street Double Sourdough & Sea Salt 66% vs Hot Cross Bun 60%: A Chocolate Bar Comparison

Pump Street Chocolate is known for pushing boundaries with innovative flavor combinations that celebrate both craft chocolate and artisan baking. Two of their most distinctive bars—the Double Sourdough & Sea Salt 66% and the Hot Cross Bun 60%—offer unique taste experiences that bridge the gap between chocolate and bakery. In this comparison, we'll explore what makes each bar special, from ingredient sourcing to flavor profile, helping you decide which one deserves a spot in your pantry.

Both bars are part of Pump Street's creative lineup, but they cater to different cravings. The Double Sourdough & Sea Salt 66% is a dark chocolate bar infused with real sourdough crumb and a touch of sea salt, while the Hot Cross Bun 60% is a milkier chocolate bar inspired by the classic spiced Easter bun. Let's dive into the details.

Flavor Profile: Sourdough vs Spiced Bun

The Double Sourdough & Sea Salt 66% is a bold dark chocolate with a deep, slightly tangy flavor from the sourdough crumb. The sea salt adds a savory contrast that enhances the chocolate's natural bitterness. This bar is for those who enjoy complex, savory-sweet combinations with a satisfying crunch.

In contrast, the Hot Cross Bun 60% is a milk chocolate bar with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, reminiscent of the traditional Easter treat. The 60% cocoa content keeps it creamy and approachable, with a sweetness that balances the spice. It's a comforting, nostalgic flavor that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea.

• Double Sourdough & Sea Salt: tangy, salty, dark (66% cocoa)
• Hot Cross Bun: spiced, creamy, milk (60% cocoa)

Texture and Mouthfeel

Texture is where these bars truly diverge. The Double Sourdough & Sea Salt 66% incorporates actual sourdough crumb, giving it a crunchy, irregular texture that contrasts with the smooth chocolate. The sea salt crystals provide occasional bursts of salinity, making each bite an adventure.

The Hot Cross Bun 60% is silky and smooth, with no inclusions. Its melt is creamy and even, allowing the spice blend to unfold gradually. This bar is ideal for those who prefer a uniform, melt-in-the-mouth experience without textural surprises.

Ingredients and Sourcing

Pump Street is transparent about its sourcing. The Double Sourdough & Sea Salt 66% uses single-origin cocoa from Madagascar (likely the Madagascar - Ambanja 72% origin, though this bar is a blend) and incorporates real sourdough from their own bakery. The sea salt is hand-harvested, adding a premium touch.

The Hot Cross Bun 60% features a blend of cocoa beans and real spices. While the exact origin isn't specified for this bar, Pump Street typically uses high-quality, ethically sourced beans. Both bars are made with cocoa butter and natural ingredients, free from artificial flavors.

Best Ways to Enjoy Each Bar

The Double Sourdough & Sea Salt 66% is a versatile bar that shines on its own or paired with cheese, especially aged cheddar or blue cheese. It also works well in baking—try chopping it into cookies or brownies for a sourdough twist.

The Hot Cross Bun 60% is perfect for Easter or any time you crave spiced flavors. Enjoy it with a hot cross bun itself, or use it to make a spiced hot chocolate. It also pairs wonderfully with coffee or a dark stout.

• Double Sourdough: pair with cheese, use in baking
• Hot Cross Bun: pair with coffee, use in spiced drinks

Which One Should You Choose?

Your choice depends on your flavor preferences. If you love adventurous, savory-sweet chocolate with texture, go for the Double Sourdough & Sea Salt 66%. If you prefer a creamy, spiced milk chocolate that's comforting and familiar, the Hot Cross Bun 60% is your pick.

Both bars make excellent gifts or personal treats. For a gift that showcases variety, consider pairing them with other Pump Street favorites like the Jamaica - Bachelor's Hall Estate 75% or the Milk Baking Pastilles - Madagascar Milk 58% – Akesson's Organic Estate for a complete tasting experience.

Whether you're a sourdough enthusiast or a spice lover, Pump Street's Double Sourdough & Sea Salt 66% and Hot Cross Bun 60% offer two distinct journeys into artisan chocolate. Explore the full range of Pump Street chocolate bars to find your next favorite flavor.