Beyond the Bun: Creative Hot Cross Bun Recipes to Spice Up Your Easter
Hot cross buns, those spiced, fruit-studded treats marked with a distinctive cross, are a quintessential symbol of Easter. While traditionally enjoyed warm with a smear of butter, their versatility extends far beyond this simple pleasure. This article explores a delightful array of recipes that elevate the humble hot cross bun, transforming it into everything from decadent desserts to savory snacks. Get ready to rediscover this Easter classic and impress your family and friends with these innovative culinary creations!
## The Perfect Hot Cross Bun: A Foundation for Culinary Adventures
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s quickly recap what makes a great hot cross bun. Whether you’re baking your own or buying them from a bakery, look for these qualities:
* **Softness:** The crumb should be tender and yielding, not dry or dense.
* **Spice:** A warm blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice should be evident.
* **Fruit:** A generous scattering of dried fruits, such as currants, raisins, and candied peel, adds sweetness and texture.
* **Glaze:** A glossy glaze enhances the flavor and appearance.
* **Cross:** The signature cross, traditionally made with a paste of flour and water, should be neatly formed.
If you’re making your own, here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
**Homemade Hot Cross Buns (Basic Recipe)**
**Yields:** 12 buns
**Prep time:** 30 minutes
**Proofing time:** 1.5 – 2 hours
**Cook time:** 20-25 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 500g strong white bread flour, plus extra for dusting
* 75g caster sugar
* 1 tsp mixed spice
* ½ tsp ground cinnamon
* ½ tsp ground nutmeg
* 7g sachet of dried fast-action yeast
* 300ml milk, lukewarm
* 75g unsalted butter, melted
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 150g mixed dried fruit (currants, raisins, sultanas, candied peel)
* 50g candied citrus peel, finely chopped (optional)
**For the cross:**
* 75g plain flour
* 5-6 tbsp water
**For the glaze:**
* 2 tbsp apricot jam
* 1 tbsp water
**Equipment:**
* Large mixing bowl
* Baking tray
* Clean tea towel
* Small saucepan
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine dry ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, mixed spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and yeast. Make a well in the center.
2. **Add wet ingredients:** In a separate jug, whisk together the lukewarm milk, melted butter, and beaten egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the well of the dry ingredients.
3. **Mix the dough:** Gradually mix the wet and dry ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
4. **Incorporate the fruit:** Knead in the mixed dried fruit and candied peel (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. **First proof:** Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a clean tea towel and leave to rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. **Shape the buns:** Gently punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each bun.
7. **Second proof:** Cover the buns with a clean tea towel and leave to rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
8. **Make the cross:** While the buns are proving, prepare the cross paste. In a small bowl, mix the flour and water until you have a smooth, thick paste. Spoon the paste into a piping bag fitted with a small round nozzle.
9. **Pipe the crosses:** Pipe a cross onto each bun.
10. **Bake the buns:** Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/Gas Mark 6). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. **Make the glaze:** While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, heat the apricot jam and water over low heat until melted and smooth. Strain the glaze through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
12. **Glaze the buns:** As soon as the buns come out of the oven, brush them generously with the apricot glaze. This will give them a lovely shine and add extra flavor.
13. **Cool and serve:** Let the buns cool slightly on the baking tray before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Now that you have a batch of delicious hot cross buns, or have purchased some, let’s explore some exciting ways to use them.
## Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding: A Comforting Classic Reimagined
Bread pudding is a timeless dessert, and using hot cross buns adds a delightful twist. The spices and dried fruit in the buns infuse the pudding with warmth and depth, creating a truly unforgettable treat.
**Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding Recipe**
**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 45-50 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 6-8 hot cross buns, torn into bite-sized pieces
* 4 large eggs
* 500ml milk
* 250ml double cream
* 100g caster sugar
* 1 tsp vanilla extract
* ½ tsp ground cinnamon
* Pinch of salt
* 50g butter, melted, for greasing
* Icing sugar, for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the dish:** Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/Gas Mark 4). Grease a 20cm square baking dish with melted butter.
2. **Arrange the buns:** Spread the torn hot cross buns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. **Make the custard:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, double cream, caster sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. **Pour the custard:** Pour the custard mixture evenly over the hot cross buns, making sure that all the pieces are soaked.
5. **Let it soak:** Gently press down on the buns to ensure they are submerged in the custard. Let the pudding sit for at least 20 minutes, or up to 1 hour, to allow the buns to absorb the custard.
6. **Bake the pudding:** Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. **Cool and serve:** Let the bread pudding cool slightly before serving. Dust with icing sugar, if desired. Serve warm with cream, custard, or ice cream.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add chocolate:** Stir in chocolate chips or chunks for an extra layer of decadence.
* **Use different fruits:** Add other dried fruits, such as cranberries or chopped apricots, to complement the existing flavors.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger to the custard for a more intense spice flavor.
* **Caramel sauce:** Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving for a truly indulgent treat.
## Hot Cross Bun French Toast: A Brunchtime Delight
Transform your leftover hot cross buns into a luxurious brunch treat with this simple French toast recipe. The spices and fruit in the buns create a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more.
**Hot Cross Bun French Toast Recipe**
**Yields:** 2 servings
**Prep time:** 5 minutes
**Cook time:** 10-15 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 2 hot cross buns, sliced in half horizontally
* 2 large eggs
* 60ml milk
* 1 tbsp caster sugar
* ½ tsp vanilla extract
* Pinch of salt
* 1 tbsp butter, for frying
* Maple syrup, for serving
* Fresh berries, for serving (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the batter:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, caster sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
2. **Soak the buns:** Dip each hot cross bun half into the egg mixture, making sure that both sides are thoroughly soaked. Let the buns soak for a few seconds on each side to absorb the batter.
3. **Fry the French toast:** Melt the butter in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and the pan is hot, add the soaked hot cross bun halves to the pan.
4. **Cook until golden:** Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Turn the French toast carefully to avoid breaking it.
5. **Serve immediately:** Serve the hot cross bun French toast immediately with maple syrup and fresh berries, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add a liqueur:** Add a splash of orange liqueur or rum to the egg mixture for an extra boozy kick.
* **Use different toppings:** Experiment with different toppings, such as whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or chopped nuts.
* **Stuff the French toast:** Spread a layer of cream cheese or Nutella between two hot cross bun halves before dipping them in the egg mixture for a stuffed French toast treat.
## Hot Cross Bun Grilled Cheese: A Savory Surprise
Who says hot cross buns are only for sweet dishes? This surprising recipe combines the sweet and savory flavors of hot cross buns and cheese for a truly unique grilled cheese sandwich.
**Hot Cross Bun Grilled Cheese Recipe**
**Yields:** 1 serving
**Prep time:** 5 minutes
**Cook time:** 5-7 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 2 slices of hot cross bun
* 50g cheddar cheese, grated
* 1 tbsp butter, softened
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the sandwich:** Spread the softened butter on one side of each slice of hot cross bun. Place one slice of hot cross bun, butter-side down, in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. **Add the cheese:** Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the hot cross bun slice.
3. **Top with the other slice:** Top with the other slice of hot cross bun, butter-side up.
4. **Grill the sandwich:** Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Press down on the sandwich with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
5. **Serve immediately:** Serve the hot cross bun grilled cheese immediately. Cut in half, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use different cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyere, Brie, or Monterey Jack.
* **Add ham or bacon:** Add a slice of ham or bacon for a heartier sandwich.
* **Spread with jam:** Spread a thin layer of fruit jam, such as apricot or raspberry, on the hot cross bun before adding the cheese for a sweet and savory combination.
## Hot Cross Bun Ice Cream Sandwiches: A Cool and Creamy Treat
These ice cream sandwiches are a fun and easy way to enjoy hot cross buns on a warm day. The spiced buns pair perfectly with the cold, creamy ice cream.
**Hot Cross Bun Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe**
**Yields:** 4 sandwiches
**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Freezing time:** 30 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 4 hot cross buns, sliced in half horizontally
* 500ml vanilla ice cream, softened slightly
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the buns:** If the hot cross buns are very fresh, you can toast them lightly to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
2. **Assemble the sandwiches:** Spread a generous layer of softened vanilla ice cream on the bottom half of each hot cross bun. Top with the other half of the bun.
3. **Freeze the sandwiches:** Wrap each ice cream sandwich individually in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 30 minutes to allow the ice cream to firm up.
4. **Serve and Enjoy:** Unwrap and serve the ice cream sandwiches immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use different ice cream flavors:** Experiment with different ice cream flavors, such as chocolate, salted caramel, or even a spicy cinnamon ice cream to complement the hot cross bun.
* **Roll in toppings:** Roll the edges of the ice cream sandwiches in sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
* **Drizzle with chocolate sauce:** Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel sauce before serving for a decadent touch.
## Hot Cross Bun Crumble Topping: Add a Sweet Crunch to Your Favorite Desserts
Transform stale or day-old hot cross buns into a delicious crumble topping for your favorite desserts, such as fruit pies, cobblers, or crumbles. The spices and fruit in the buns add a unique flavor and texture to the topping.
**Hot Cross Bun Crumble Topping Recipe**
**Yields:** Enough for one 9-inch pie or cobbler
**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Cook time:** Varies depending on the dessert
**Ingredients:**
* 4-5 hot cross buns, crumbled or pulsed in a food processor
* 50g cold butter, cubed
* 50g plain flour
* 50g brown sugar
* Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the crumble:** In a large bowl, combine the crumbled hot cross buns, cold butter, flour, brown sugar, and salt.
2. **Rub in the butter:** Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
3. **Top your dessert:** Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over your fruit filling in a pie dish, cobbler dish, or individual ramekins.
4. **Bake as directed:** Bake the dessert according to the recipe instructions. The crumble topping should be golden brown and crisp.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add nuts:** Add chopped nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts, to the crumble topping for added crunch and flavor.
* **Add oats:** Add rolled oats to the crumble topping for a heartier texture.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble topping for a more intense spice flavor.
## Savory Hot Cross Bun Stuffing: A Thanksgiving Twist
Yes, you read that right! Hot cross buns can even be used in stuffing. The sweetness complements savory elements like sausage and herbs, creating a memorable side dish.
**Savory Hot Cross Bun Stuffing Recipe**
**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 30-40 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 6-8 Hot Cross Buns, cubed and dried overnight (or toasted lightly)
* 1 tbsp Olive Oil
* 1 Onion, chopped
* 2 Celery Stalks, chopped
* 2 cloves Garlic, minced
* 500g Sausage Meat, removed from casings
* 1 tsp Dried Sage
* 1 tsp Dried Thyme
* ½ tsp Dried Rosemary
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* 500ml Chicken Broth
* 2 Eggs, beaten
* ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Buns:** Cube the hot cross buns and allow them to dry out overnight. Alternatively, you can toast them lightly in the oven until dried.
2. **Sauté Vegetables:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Cook Sausage:** Add sausage meat to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
4. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the dried hot cross bun cubes, sautéed vegetables, cooked sausage, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
5. **Add Broth and Eggs:** Pour the chicken broth over the mixture and gently toss to combine. Add the beaten eggs and parsley and mix well.
6. **Bake:** Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F).
7. **Serve:** Let the stuffing cool slightly before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Apples:** Dice one or two tart apples and add them to the skillet with the onions and celery for a touch of sweetness and texture.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with other herbs such as marjoram or oregano.
* **Add Nuts:** Toast chopped pecans or walnuts and add them to the stuffing for added crunch.
* **Use Different Meats:** Substitute the sausage meat with ground turkey or cooked bacon.
## Hot Cross Bun Trifle: A Layered Dessert Masterpiece
Create a stunning and flavorful trifle using hot cross buns as one of the key layers. This dessert is perfect for entertaining and showcasing the versatility of the Easter treat.
**Hot Cross Bun Trifle Recipe**
**Yields:** 8-10 Servings
**Prep Time:** 30 minutes
**Chill Time:** At least 2 hours
**Ingredients:**
* 6-8 Hot Cross Buns, cubed
* 250ml Sherry or Orange Juice
* 500g Ready-Made Custard
* 500ml Whipped Cream
* 500g Mixed Berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
* Chocolate Shavings, for garnish (optional)
* Toasted Almonds, for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Buns:** Cube the hot cross buns and place them in a large bowl. Drizzle with sherry or orange juice to moisten them. Allow them to soak for at least 15 minutes.
2. **Layer the Trifle:** In a large trifle dish or glass bowl, layer the ingredients in the following order: half of the soaked hot cross buns, half of the custard, half of the whipped cream, and half of the mixed berries.
3. **Repeat Layers:** Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients: hot cross buns, custard, whipped cream, and mixed berries.
4. **Chill:** Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** Before serving, garnish the trifle with chocolate shavings and toasted almonds, if desired. Serve chilled.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Fruits:** Substitute some of the mixed berries with other fruits like sliced peaches, kiwi, or mango.
* **Add a Jelly Layer:** Incorporate a layer of fruit jelly for added texture and flavor.
* **Make it Boozy:** Add a splash of liqueur, such as Grand Marnier or Amaretto, to the sherry or orange juice for an extra kick.
## Hot Cross Bun Smoothie: A Quick and Healthy Breakfast
Blend hot cross buns into a smoothie for a surprisingly delicious and convenient breakfast or snack. This is a great way to use up leftover buns and add a touch of spice and sweetness to your morning routine.
**Hot Cross Bun Smoothie Recipe**
**Yields:** 1 Serving
**Prep Time:** 5 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Hot Cross Bun, quartered
* 1 Frozen Banana
* 125ml Milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 1 tbsp Yogurt (Greek or regular)
* ½ tsp Cinnamon
* Pinch of Nutmeg
* Honey or Maple Syrup, to taste (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine the hot cross bun pieces, frozen banana, milk, yogurt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. **Blend:** Blend until smooth and creamy. Add honey or maple syrup to taste, if desired.
3. **Serve Immediately:** Pour the smoothie into a glass and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Protein Powder:** Add a scoop of protein powder for a more filling and nutritious smoothie.
* **Use Different Spices:** Experiment with other spices such as ginger or allspice.
* **Add Greens:** Sneak in a handful of spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients.
* **Use Ice:** If you don’t have a frozen banana, add a few ice cubes to thicken the smoothie.
## Hot Cross Bun Pizza: A Fun and Festive Appetizer
Transform hot cross buns into miniature pizzas for a fun and festive appetizer. The sweetness of the buns combined with savory toppings creates a surprisingly delicious combination.
**Hot Cross Bun Pizza Recipe**
**Yields:** 4-6 Mini Pizzas
**Prep Time:** 10 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10-12 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 4-6 Hot Cross Buns, split in half horizontally
* 125ml Tomato Sauce or Pizza Sauce
* 200g Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
* Your Favorite Pizza Toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, olives, peppers, etc.)
* Dried Oregano, for sprinkling
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Buns:** Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Place the hot cross bun halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. **Add Sauce and Cheese:** Spread each hot cross bun half with tomato sauce or pizza sauce. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
3. **Add Toppings:** Add your favorite pizza toppings.
4. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the buns are lightly toasted.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** Sprinkle with dried oregano and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or parmesan.
* **Add a Pesto Base:** Use pesto instead of tomato sauce for a different flavor profile.
* **Create Dessert Pizzas:** Use Nutella or melted chocolate as the base and top with fruit, marshmallows, and chocolate chips for dessert pizzas.
## Conclusion: Unleash Your Creativity with Hot Cross Buns
As you can see, the possibilities with hot cross buns are endless! From comforting bread pudding to surprising savory dishes, these spiced buns can be transformed into a multitude of culinary creations. So, this Easter, don’t limit yourself to just enjoying them with butter. Embrace your creativity and experiment with these recipes to discover new and exciting ways to savor the flavors of hot cross buns. Happy cooking!