There’s more to Easter than just chocolate, and while it’s normally a holiday fit for the sweet-tooths, it’s fair to say hot cross buns are the ultimate Easter snack.
WATCH: Fast Ed’s hot cross bun zuccoto
What is traditionally in a hot cross bun?
A hot cross bun is a type of sweet, spiced bun that is typically made with flour, sugar, dried fruit (such as currants, raisins, or candied citrus peel), spices (such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice), and yeast. The bun is usually marked with a cross on the top, either with a pastry topping or a piped icing, which is meant to symbolize the crucifixion of Jesus.
The ingredients and recipe for hot cross buns may vary depending on the region and the baker, but some common variations include chocolate chips, glace cherries, or almonds. Some recipes also specify that buns should be brushed with a glaze made of sugar syrup or honey after they come out of the oven.
What can you put in a hot cross bun?
Traditionally, hot cross buns have raisins, dried fruit and spices. However, you can get creative and add any of the following ingredients for a modern take on the classic recipe:
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Chocolate chips: Add a touch of sweetness to your hot cross buns by incorporating chocolate chips into the dough.
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Nuts: Chopped nuts like almonds or pecans can add a crunchy texture to your buns.
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Citrus zest: Orange or lemon zest can add a bright, citrusy flavour to your buns.
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Cranberries: Dried cranberries add a tart flavour to the buns and also a beautiful colour.
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Mixed peel: Candied citrus peel adds a sweet and slightly bitter flavour to the buns.
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Spices: Experiment with different spices like cardamom, ginger, or allspice to add complexity to your hot cross buns.
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Cheese: For a savoury twist, try adding some grated cheese into the dough.
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Herbs: Add some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique flavour and aroma.
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Jam or Marmalade: Use some jam or marmalade as a filling for a fruity and sweet bun.
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Cream Cheese: Adding cream cheese frosting or filling to your hot cross bun can create a creamy, tangy taste.
Do you eat hot cross buns hot or cold?
Hot cross buns can be enjoyed either hot or cold, depending on personal preference. Traditionally, hot cross buns were served warm, straight out of the oven, with a generous spread of butter. This is still a popular way to enjoy them, as the heat from the bun melts the butter, creating a deliciously gooey treat.
However, hot cross buns can also be eaten at room temperature or even cold.
If you prefer to eat hot cross buns warm, simply heat them up in the oven or microwave for a few seconds before serving. You can also pop them under the griller for a toasted flavour. Just be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the crosses on top to melt or the buns to become dry.
Why are my hot cross buns hard?
Hot cross buns can become hard for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common causes and how to prevent them:
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Overbaking: If the buns are left in the oven for too long, they can become dry and hard. Be sure to follow the baking time and temperature recommended in your recipe, and check the buns frequently towards the end of the baking time to ensure they are not overbaked.
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Underproofing: Proofing is the process of allowing the dough to rise before baking. If the dough is not given enough time to rise, the buns can turn out hard and dense. Make sure to follow the proofing time recommended in your recipe and keep the dough in a warm, draft-free place to help it rise.
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Too much flour: If too much flour is added to the dough, it can become dry and tough, resulting in hard buns. Be careful to measure your ingredients accurately and add flour gradually, as needed, to achieve the right consistency.
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Storing improperly: If the buns are not stored properly, they can become dry and hard. Store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to help retain moisture.
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Using old ingredients: Using old or expired ingredients, such as yeast or baking powder, can result in hard buns. Make sure to check the expiration dates on your ingredients and replace them as needed.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your hot cross buns turn out soft and delicious.
After a traditional hot cross bun recipe?
Hot cross buns
If you love nothing more than a traditional hot cross, then this sticky and fruity bun is the only recipe you need. Get the recipe here.
Now take your average hot cross bun to a whole new level
Milo barbecue hot cross bun ice cream sandwich
You know the kids will love this chocolatey creation, but the adults will too! Not only does it take less than 10 minutes to prep, but it’s the perfect snack for a sunny day. Get the recipe here.
Hot cross bun microwave puddings
It couldn’t be easier to whip this dish, simply combine, microwave, and serve. And it makes for a tasty after-dinner treat. Get the recipe here.
Hot cross bun zuccotto
Reimagine your favourite Easter snack into the ultimate no-cook Italian dessert. Get the recipe here.
Hot cross buns with orange and lemongrass curd
Hot cross buns have never looked – or tasted – so good. Add a little extra zing to an Easter classic! Get the recipe here.
Fairy bread barbecue hot cross bun
Combine your love for fairy bread and hot cross buns with this decadent treat. Get the recipe here.
Hot cross bun bombe Alaska
Combining layers of hot cross bun with ice cream, and a toasted meringue outer layer, this show-stopper is sure to impress! Get the recipe here.
Hot cross bun panna cotta with Easter egg salsa
If you’re after something elegant to serve to your guests this Easter, this dish should be your go-to. Get the recipe here.
Tim Tam slam BBQ hot cross bun
Level up your bun by adding fruit, hazelnut spread and an iconic Aussie biccie. Get the recipe here.
Caramelised hot cross bun bread pudding
Use your fave hot cross buns for the best bread and butter pudding you’ve ever eaten. Get the recipe here.
Chocolate chip hot cross buns
Glistening with a magic maple syrup glaze, you’ll have to hide these chocolate chip buns from the Easter bunny! Get the recipe here.
You might need
Venturing beyond the bun? Try one of these Easter goodies:
How to make your own Easter pinata smash cake
You can now buy Golden Gaytime popcorn and Easter eggs
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