Vegan Hot Cross Buns: A Spring Delight with Pillowy Softness and Sweet Spices

Celebrate the arrival of spring with these Vegan Hot Cross Buns, each piece a soft, spiced wonder that’s sure to brighten any afternoon. This recipe offers a vegan take on the traditional Easter favorite, incorporating aromatic spices and sultanas into a beautifully soft dough made with soy milk and vegan butter. The buns are finished with classic crosses and a glossy apricot glaze, making them irresistibly appealing both in flavor and appearance.

Why You’ll Love This

These buns are not only a treat for the palate but also for the soul, bringing the essence of spring to your table with their warm spices and sweet aroma. They’re perfect for anyone looking for a dairy-free alternative without compromising on the festive feel and traditional taste of hot cross buns. Their fluffy texture and rich, spiced flavor make them a wonderful companion to your favorite coffee or tea, providing a comforting, satisfying pick-me-up.

Perfect Occasion

Ideal for Easter celebrations or any springtime gathering, these Vegan Hot Cross Buns can be served during brunch, as an afternoon snack, or as part of a festive holiday meal. They’re also great for baking and sharing with friends, family, or neighbors as a homemade gift that shows care and thoughtfulness.

Decoration Tips

Serve these buns warm for the best experience, brushed with apricot jam for a shiny, sticky finish. For a creative twist, pair them with homemade chia jam, offering a delightful contrast of flavors. You can also sprinkle a little cinnamon or powdered sugar over the top for a more festive look.

• Ingredients:
  • 520 grams of white bread flour
  • 80 grams of caster sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
  • 3 teaspoons of mixed spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 8 grams of fast-acting dried yeast
  • 80 grams of melted vegan butter
  • 330 ml of lukewarm soy milk
  • 150 grams of sultanas
  • 30 grams of flour (for crosses)
  • 50 grams of water (approximately)
  • Apricot jam, for glazing
  • Chia seeds and frozen raspberries for making chia jam
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, cinnamon, mixed spice, salt, and yeast (keeping yeast and salt on separate sides).
  2. Add melted butter and lukewarm soy milk to the dry ingredients and mix until a fluffy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1.5 to 2 hours.
  4. Fold sultanas into the risen dough, then divide it into 12 pieces and shape each into a ball. Let them rise again for about an hour.
  5. Mix 30 grams of flour with enough water to form a thick paste and pipe crosses onto the buns.
  6. Bake at 180°C (356°F) for 25 minutes.
  7. While still warm, brush the buns with warm apricot jam for a sticky glaze.
  8. Optionally, make chia jam by combining chia seeds, frozen raspberries, water, and maple syrup to taste.

Enjoy these delightful Vegan Hot Cross Buns, perfect for bringing a touch of spring’s warmth and joy into your home!