As the chill of spring begins to warm the air, I find myself irresistibly drawn to the aromas that fill my kitchen—especially when baking these spiced hot cross buns. There’s something extraordinary about the rich combination of cinnamon and nutmeg, mingling with the sweet notes of honey and the chewiness of dried fruit. While traditionally enjoyed during Easter, these buns are an indulgence worth savoring any time of the year.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its healthier twist—a delightful blend of whole wheat flour and creamy Greek yogurt ensures that every bite is both soft and nutritious. Gone are the days of feeling guilty about sweet treats; these spiced hot cross buns make it possible to enjoy a beloved classic without compromising on flavor or wellness.

Imagine pulling a tray from the oven, the golden tops glistening with a honey glaze, ready to be served warm. Whether you’re hosting a cozy breakfast with friends, or simply treating yourself on a quiet Sunday morning, these buns promise to turn any gathering into a celebration of comforting homemade goodness. Let’s get baking!

Why will you love these Spiced Hot Cross Buns?

Irresistible Flavors: The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg create an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Healthier Twist: Made with whole wheat flour and Greek yogurt, these buns are a guilt-free indulgence packed with nutrients.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch effortlessly, even if you’re new to baking.

Versatile Serving: Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy breakfast, they pair well with butter or your favorite spreads.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a holiday gathering or just a weekend treat, these buns will win over family and friends alike!

Spiced Hot Cross Buns Ingredients

For the Buns

Whole Wheat Flour – Provides a deliciously nutty flavor and extra fiber. Substitution: Switch to all-purpose flour for a lighter option, though it will reduce nutritional benefits.
Greek Yogurt – Keeps buns moist and tender while cutting down on butter. Substitution: Use unsweetened applesauce for a dairy-free option.
Honey – Acts as a natural sweetener packed with antioxidants. Substitution: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used for a vegan twist.
Dried Fruit (currants or raisins) – Adds delightful sweetness and a chewy texture. Variation: Feel free to swap in cranberries or apricots for a different flavor.
Warm Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg) – Elevate the flavor with irresistible aromas. Adjust the spices to suit your personal taste.
Instant Yeast – Essential for rising and texture; ensure it’s fresh for maximum effectiveness.

For the Glaze

Honey (for glazing) – Adds a beautiful sheen and extra sweetness. Alternative: A simple syrup can be used for a vegan-friendly finish.

How to Make Spiced Hot Cross Buns

Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, ensuring your yeast is alive and ready to help your buns rise!
Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, and the activated yeast mixture. This will create a lovely base that’s both moist and flavorful.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine whole wheat flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and ensure your buns are wonderfully aromatic.
Combine and Knead Dough: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Add Dried Fruit: Gently fold in the dried fruit, making sure it gets evenly distributed throughout the dough for delightful bursts of sweetness in each bite.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
Shape Buns: Once risen, punch down the dough gently. Divide it into equal pieces, shape each piece into a bun, and place them on a lined baking tray with a little space in between for further rising.
Second Rise: Cover the shaped buns with a cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes until they feel puffy and alive!
Pipe Crosses: Using a piping bag or a plastic bag with the tip cut off, pipe a cross on each bun with a mixture of flour and water. This gives them their classic look!
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the buns for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
Apply Glaze: As soon as they come out of the oven, brush the tops with honey for that beautiful shine and extra sweetness.

Optional: Enjoy your buns warm with a spread of your choice for a truly indulgent treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Spiced Hot Cross Buns?

Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment, these buns call for some delightful accompaniments to elevate your experience.

Grass-Fed Butter: A classic pairing that adds richness; spread it generously for a decadent touch.
Almond Butter: For a nutty twist, almond butter complements the sweetness of the buns perfectly, adding creaminess to each bite.
Honey Glaze: Drizzle extra honey over the top for a shimmering finish, enhancing the buns’ natural sweetness.
Fruit Preserves: Try apricot or berry preserves for a fresh, fruity contrast that pairs beautifully with the warm spices.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, bright side that adds freshness; the acidity contrasts wonderfully with the sweet, spiced buns.
Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea enhances the aromatic experience of the buns, helping you unwind.
Coffee: Whether it’s a strong espresso or a creamy latte, the robust flavors of coffee pair harmoniously with these delightful treats.
Dark Chocolate Chips: For a touch of indulgence, incorporate dark chocolate chips in the buns or serve alongside for a sweet surprise.

Expert Tips for Spiced Hot Cross Buns

Monitor Yeast Temperature: Ensure liquids are between 105-115°F; too hot can kill the yeast, leading to dense buns.

Knead Well: Proper kneading is crucial! Aim for 8-10 minutes to develop gluten; it’ll ensure a soft, tender texture for your spiced hot cross buns.

Check Fruit Distribution: Fold in dried fruit evenly to avoid clumps. This guarantees every bun has that delightful sweetness and chewiness.

Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your instant yeast; stale yeast won’t rise properly, affecting the final result.

Doneness Check: Use an instant-read thermometer to test for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 190°F for perfect buns.

Spiced Hot Cross Buns Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore and modify these buns to suit your fancy and dietary needs while delighting in the beautiful aromas of baking!

Dairy-Free: Use plant-based yogurt instead of Greek yogurt for an equally moist bun, perfect for those who are lactose intolerant.
Vegan Sweetener: Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep the sweetness while adhering to a vegan diet.
Flour Alternative: If you’re in need of a gluten-free option, swap whole wheat flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a light yet scrumptious treat.
Fruit Mix: Consider adding chopped dried apricots or figs instead of the traditional currants for an exciting flavor twist that’s both sweet and tangy.
Nuts Surprise: Enhance texture and flavor by folding in walnuts or pecans; they add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft buns.
Spice Variations: Experiment with spices like cardamom or ginger in place of, or alongside, the cinnamon and nutmeg for an exciting new flavor profile.
Zesty Addition: Incorporate a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest into your dough to add a bright, citrusy note that perfectly balances the sweetness.
Heat Factor: For a spicy kick, mix in some finely chopped candied ginger or a dash of cayenne pepper for those who crave a little heat in their baked goods.

Storage Tips for Spiced Hot Cross Buns

Room Temperature: Store cooled buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days to maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor.

Freezer: Place buns in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months, ensuring they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy a fresh-baked feel, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time; let it rise and shape the buns, then refrigerate overnight before baking them fresh in the morning!

Spiced Hot Cross Buns Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for the buns?
You’ll want to use whole wheat flour for these Spiced Hot Cross Buns, as it adds a nutty flavor and boosts the fiber content. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute with all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that this will lower the nutritional value.

How should I store leftover hot cross buns?
Once your buns have cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. This will keep them soft and delicious! If you want to enjoy them longer, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure they’re wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Can I freeze the hot cross buns?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled buns in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

What should I do if my yeast doesn’t activate?
If your yeast doesn’t foam within 5-10 minutes of combining it with warm water, it might be expired or the water too hot or cold. To troubleshoot, check the expiration date on your yeast. For the ideal temperature, ensure your water is between 105-115°F. If using a thermometer is tricky, aim for water that’s warm to the touch but not hot.

Are these buns suitable for people with allergies?
While these Spiced Hot Cross Buns are made with healthier ingredients, they contain wheat and dairy (Greek yogurt). For a dairy-free option, you can substitute the yogurt with unsweetened applesauce. Be sure to check for any specific allergies related to dried fruits as well, as some people may have sensitivities.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time! After kneading, let the dough rise, then shape the buns. Instead of baking them right away, cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and undergo a quick second rise before baking. This ensures freshly baked buns with minimal effort!