I love creating new Easter recipes as it really is one of my favourite times of the year. Hot cross buns are such a classic, but they’re often time-consuming to make. So I really wanted to create an Easy Hot Cross Buns version that was genuinely quick as well as easy, while still keeping those traditional warm spices and fruity flavours we all recognise.
These buns are soft, gently spiced and naturally sweet from the raisins, with no added sugar. They’re perfect for little ones, but just as enjoyable for the whole family. They’re delicious served warm, split and spread with butter or a little yoghurt/plant-based yoghurt and fruit/veg sticks on the side.
Because there’s no yeast, there’s no waiting around, which makes these easy hot cross buns ideal for busy days or last-minute baking. They also store well for a couple of days in an airtight container and can be gently reheated before serving. You can even freeze them, making them a handy option to batch prepare and keep on hand.
Ingredients
Makes approx. 6-8 buns*
- 300g self-raising flour (you can use wholemeal, white or 50/50)
- 250g Greek yoghurt (or plant-based yoghurt)
- 100ml milk (or plant-based alternative)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground mixed spice
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 handful raisins
For the cross (optional)
- 2 tbsp plain flour
- 1-2 tbsp water
Method
1. Make the dough
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan 160°C).
- Add the flour, cinnamon, mixed spice and baking powder to a bowl and mix well.
- Stir in the yoghurt and milk, then bring together into a soft dough. It should be slightly sticky but still manageable. If the dough feels too wet, add a little more flour. If it feels too dry, add a splash more milk.
- Add the raisins and gently fold through.
2. Shape the buns
Lightly flour your hands and divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
3. Add the crosses (optional)
- Mix the flour and water together to form a smooth paste.
- Transfer to a piping bag, sandwich bag (snip the corner), or simply use a spoon to drizzle crosses over each bun.
- For an even simpler option, you can lightly score a cross into the top of each bun using a knife.
4. Cook the buns
Oven
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Air fryer
- Place the buns into the air fryer basket (you may need to cook in batches).
- Cook at 160°C for 10-14 minutes, checking regularly, until golden and cooked through.
If you’re looking for more recipe ideas for Easter like these Easy Hot Cross Buns, take a look at my 8 Simple Family Friendly Easter Recipes.