Brioche Hot Cross Buns
Brioche Hot Cross Buns
What makes this recipe special
Brioche Hot Cross Buns blend the rich, buttery flavor of brioche dough with the festive spices and fruits traditionally found in hot cross buns. This recipe brings a delightful twist to a classic treat, making every bite a celebration of flavor. They’re perfect for Easter brunch or any time you want to indulge in something special.
How to make Brioche Hot Cross Buns
Ingredients:
- 500g all-purpose flour
- 75g sugar
- 10g salt
- 10g instant yeast
- 250ml milk
- 100g unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 100g currants or raisins
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Icing sugar (for glaze)
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- In another bowl, warm the milk and add the melted butter, eggs, and spices.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then knead until the dough is smooth.
- Add the currants, raisins, and orange zest.
- Let the dough rise until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
- Shape the dough into buns and place them on a baking tray.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes.
- Brush the buns with egg wash.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Allow the buns to cool, then drizzle with icing for a lovely glaze.
How to serve Brioche Hot Cross Buns
These buns are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Serve them with butter or your favorite jam for breakfast or an afternoon snack. They can also be a lovely addition to any holiday brunch table.
How to store Brioche Hot Cross Buns
To keep your buns fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Tips to make Brioche Hot Cross Buns
- Make sure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Knead the dough until it is smooth; this helps the buns rise nicely.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, feel free to add more cinnamon or nutmeg.
Variation
You can customize your buns with different dried fruits like dried apricots or cranberries. You can also try adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist!
FAQs
1. Can I make these buns ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight for convenience. Just ensure to let it come to room temperature before shaping.
2. What if I don’t have all-purpose flour?
You can substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture, though you may need to adjust the liquid slightly.
3. Can I skip the icing?
Absolutely! The buns are delicious on their own without icing or glaze.

Brioche Hot Cross Buns
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 75 g sugar
- 10 g salt
- 10 g instant yeast
- 250 ml milk Warm, not hot, to activate the yeast.
- 100 g unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs Plus 1 egg for egg wash.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon Add more for a spicier flavor.
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg Add more for a spicier flavor.
- 100 g currants or raisins Can substitute with different dried fruits.
- 1 zest orange
For Glaze
- 1 egg for egg wash
- icing sugar for glaze
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- In another bowl, warm the milk and add the melted butter, eggs, and spices.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then knead until the dough is smooth.
- Add the currants, raisins, and orange zest.
- Let the dough rise until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
Baking
- Shape the dough into buns and place them on a baking tray.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes.
- Brush the buns with egg wash.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Allow the buns to cool, then drizzle with icing for a lovely glaze.
