Imagine biting into a warm, spiced bun, perfectly sweet and comforting, without any of the usual dairy or eggs. Craving a delightful treat for your Easter brunch that caters to everyone, including those with dietary restrictions? Discover the secret to making easy vegan hot cross buns for Easter brunch that are not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly healthy and simple to prepare.
Forget lengthy kneading and rising times! This article unveils a fantastic easy vegan hot cross buns for Easter brunch no yeast recipe that’s also no nuts and no eggs, making it a safe and inclusive option for all your guests. Ready to learn this amazing easy vegan hot cross buns recipe and perhaps even ditch the search for where can I buy vegan hot cross buns? Keep reading to unlock the secrets to baking these delightful treats – you might even find out if a vegan hot cross buns bread machine version is possible and get a fantastic hot cross bun recipe!
Yields: 12 bunsÂ
Prep time: 20 minutesÂ
Cook time: 20-25 minutesÂ
Total time: 40-45 minutesÂ
Estimated Cost: $8 – $12 (depending on ingredient prices and location)
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt Â
- ½ cup (120ml) unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat)
- ¼ cup (60ml) maple syrup or agave nectar
- 2 tablespoons melted vegan butter or coconut oil
- ½ cup (75g) raisins or dried currants (optional)
For the Crosses:
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2-3 tablespoons water
For the Glaze (optional):
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tablespoon hot water
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the buns from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Ensure all the dry ingredients are well combined for an even rise and flavor distribution.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk, maple syrup (or agave), and melted vegan butter (or coconut oil). Mix until the liquids are well incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough buns. If using, gently fold in the raisins or dried currants. The dough will be slightly sticky. Â
Step 5: Shape the Buns
Lightly flour your hands and a clean surface. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together into a smooth ball. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth round bun and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each bun.
Step 6: Make the Crosses
In a small bowl, mix together the flour for the crosses with 2-3 tablespoons of water, one tablespoon at a time, until you have a smooth, thick paste. Spoon the paste into a small piping bag or a zip-top bag with a small corner snipped off. Pipe a cross onto the top of each bun.
Step 7: Bake the Buns
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Â
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze if desired. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup (or agave) and hot water until smooth.
Step 9: Glaze and Serve
Once the buns are out of the oven, brush them immediately with the glaze (if using). Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious and healthy easy vegan hot cross buns for Easter brunch!
Storing Leftovers
To keep your easy vegan hot cross buns fresh, allow them to cool completely after baking. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last for 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the buns. Wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen buns can last for up to 1-2 months. Thaw them overnight at room temperature before reheating.
Reheating Instructions for Best Taste
Reheating your vegan hot cross buns properly will help restore their warm, soft texture and delicious flavor. Here are a few recommended methods:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the buns on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil to prevent them from drying out. Reheat for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps to retain a soft interior and slightly crisp exterior.
- Toaster Oven: Slice the buns in half horizontally and place them in a toaster oven. Toast on a medium setting until lightly golden and warm. This method adds a nice crispness to the cut sides.
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, place a bun on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 15-30 seconds, or until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the buns tough. Â
Nutrition Facts (Estimated per bun)
Please note that these are estimated values and can vary based on the specific brands and measurements of ingredients used.
| Nutrient | Amount per bun (approx.) |
| Calories | 150-180 kcal |
| Total Fat | 4-6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1-3 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 150-200 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 25-30 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1-2 g |
| Total Sugars | 8-12 g |
| Added Sugars | 6-10 g |
| Protein | 2-3 g |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg |
| Calcium | 20-40 mg |
| Iron | 0.5-1 mg |
| Potassium | 50-100 mg |
Important Considerations:
- Plant-based Milk: The nutritional content will vary depending on the type of plant-based milk used (e.g., almond milk will have lower calories and fat than oat milk).
- Vegan Butter/Coconut Oil: The type and amount of fat will influence the total fat and saturated fat content.
- Sweetener: The type and amount of maple syrup or agave nectar will affect the total and added sugar content.
- Raisins/Currants: The inclusion and amount of dried fruit will increase the sugar and carbohydrate content.
- Flour: The type of flour used can slightly alter the fiber and protein content.
This table provides a general overview. For precise nutritional information, it is recommended to use a nutrition tracking app or website and input the exact ingredients and quantities used in your recipe.
Dietary Information
This recipe for Easy Vegan Hot Cross Buns for Easter Brunch is inherently suitable for the following diets:
- Vegan: This recipe is completely free of animal products, including dairy, eggs, and honey (if maple syrup or agave is used for the glaze).
With some modifications, this recipe can be adapted for other specific diets:
- Gluten-Free: To make these hot cross buns gluten-free, you would need to substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add about ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum per cup of gluten-free flour to provide structure. Be aware that the texture might be slightly different from traditional wheat-based buns.
- Keto/Low-Carb: This recipe, as written, is not suitable for a ketogenic or very low-carb diet due to the high carbohydrate content from the flour and the sugar from the maple syrup or agave. To make a keto-friendly version, significant ingredient substitutions would be required, such as using almond flour or coconut flour in combination with egg replacements (though this recipe is designed to be egg-free), and a keto-friendly sweetener. This would drastically alter the recipe and likely result in a different texture and flavor profile.
- Nut-Free: This recipe, as written, is nut-free as it does not include any nuts in the ingredients. However, it’s essential to check the labels of all your ingredients, especially plant-based milk and vegan butter, to ensure they are processed in a nut-free facility if you have severe nut allergies.
Therefore, the core recipe is vegan and can be adapted to be gluten-free with substitutions. It is not keto-friendly in its current form and is nut-free with careful ingredient selection.
History of Hot Cross Buns
The history of hot cross buns dates back to 12th-century England, when a monk first marked buns with a cross to honor Good Friday. Over time, these spiced, sweet buns became a symbol of Easter, representing the crucifixion with the cross and the spices symbolizing those used in Jesus’ burial.Â
Vegan adaptations of the recipe emerged as plant-based diets gained popularity, replacing traditional ingredients like butter and milk with vegan alternatives. These buns are now enjoyed worldwide, often with creative variations like chocolate chips or fruit fillings. Despite their evolution, they remain a cherished Easter tradition, blending history, symbolism, and modern dietary preferences.Â
Are hot cross buns suitable for vegans?
Yes, hot cross buns can be suitable for vegans, but traditional recipes are often not vegan. Many conventional hot cross bun recipes include non-vegan ingredients like dairy milk, butter, and eggs. However, it is entirely possible to make delicious vegan hot cross buns by substituting these ingredients with plant-based alternatives like plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg substitutes.
Is it OK to eat hot cross buns before Easter?
While traditionally eaten on Good Friday to mark the end of Lent, it’s generally considered okay to eat hot cross buns before Easter. Their increasing popularity has led to them being available in shops much earlier in the year. Ultimately, whether you choose to wait until Good Friday or enjoy them sooner is a matter of personal preference and tradition.
What goes well on hot cross buns?
Hot cross buns are delicious on their own, but they are also fantastic with simple spreads that complement their spiced sweetness. A classic pairing is butter, which melts beautifully into the warm bun. Alternatively, a smear of vegan butter or margarine works just as well for a plant-based option, enhancing the rich flavor.
What buns are eaten at Easter?
The most well-known buns eaten at Easter are hot cross buns. These spiced sweet buns are traditionally marked with a cross on top, symbolizing the crucifixion of Jesus. They are often made with dried fruit and spices, and in some cultures, variations like the Jamaican Easter bun with cheese are also popular during this time.
Final Thoughts
These easy vegan hot cross buns for Easter brunch prove that you don’t need eggs, dairy, or even yeast to create a truly delightful and festive treat. This simple recipe offers a healthier and inclusive option for everyone to enjoy during your Easter celebrations. Whether you follow a vegan lifestyle, have dietary restrictions, or simply want to try a delicious twist on a classic, these homemade buns are sure to be a hit. So, skip the store-bought options and bring the warmth and aroma of freshly baked vegan hot cross buns to your Easter table this year!
