Easy Healthy Hot Cross Bun Recipe

April 15, 2025 Lauren

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Easy Healthy Hot Cross Bun Recipe for a Warm, Inviting Treat

This hot cross bun recipe gives a healthier twist on the classic treat. They bring together a touch of sweet spice and nutritious ingredients in an easy bake that feels both wholesome and comforting. I appreciate how this recipe uses simple components, making it accessible even if you are new to baking. The result is a bun with a soft, moist texture, given a boost with natural spices and a hint of sweetness. Great option for Easter to make yourself!

The recipe mixes traditional techniques with healthier ingredients. I use almond flour and cassava flour to create a light, flavorful bun. The spices add warmth without overpowering the natural taste of the ingredients. With a straightforward process and clear instructions, you can create these buns confidently. They are a delightful treat for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack.

Why You’ll Enjoy This Recipe

Simple Preparation: The process does not require specialized equipment. I follow a few easy steps to mix, shape, and bake. This makes the whole process smooth and stress-free.
Nutrient Filled Ingredients: Almond and cassava flour bring a healthier twist while keeping a pleasing texture. The ingredients work together to create a bun you can feel good about eating.
Warm Spices: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves creates an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as the buns bake.
Customizable: You can adjust elements like dried fruit or sweetener amounts to better suit your taste and dietary needs. This flexibility lets you make the recipe your own.

Ingredients

Below you will find all the ingredients needed to create these delightful hot cross buns.

For the Buns:

2 cups blanched almond flour
1/2 cup cassava flour (helps with structure)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ginger
1/4 teaspoon cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons monkfruit sweetener (or allulose)
1/3 cup unsweetened dried fruit (such as golden berries or currants, optional) – I didn’t include
For a vegan option, combine 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal with 6 tablespoons water and 1 tablespoon psyllium husk powder with 3 tablespoons water. Let these mixtures sit for about 10 minutes for proper consistency.
1/4 cup full-fat coconut milk, plus an extra 2 tablespoons if the dough feels too dry
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (to mix into the coconut milk)
2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or avocado oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cross:

2 tablespoons cassava flour
1 tablespoon water
1/2 teaspoon monkfruit sweetener (or allulose syrup or powder)

For the Glaze (Optional):

2 tablespoons warm water
1 tablespoon monkfruit syrup, yacon syrup, or allulose syrup

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Make sure all the ingredients are measured out before you start. This preparation step makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

For vegan options, first combine the flaxseed meal with water and the psyllium husk powder with water together in a small bowl. Allow to rest for 10 minutes while they absorb the water.

In another bowl add the coconut milk and apple cider vinegar and allow to sit for 10 minutes. This will create a dairy free “buttermilk” that’s fermented.

After the milk has fermented, in a larger bowl, mix this with the melted coconut oil or avocado oil and vanilla extract. This blend forms the base of the dough and helps bind everything together.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the almond flour, cassava flour, baking powder, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves), salt, and monkfruit or allulose sweetener. If you are including dried fruit, add it to this mixture. The combined dry ingredients make sure that flavor is spread evenly throughout the dough.

Mix and Rest the Dough

Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms. Allow the dough to rest for about 5 minutes, giving the cassava flour time to absorb the moisture and helping the dough come together nicely.

Shape the Buns

Dampen your hands slightly to prevent sticking, then shape the dough into 6 to 8 equal balls. I always do 8 balls as it’s quite filling as well. Each ball should be smooth and firm. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is room between each bun for expansion. I also patted them down a bit on top to make it easier to put the cross on top.

Create the Cross Detail

Mix the cassava flour, water, and allulose syrup/monkfruit sweetener in a small bowl to form a thick paste. Using a piping bag or a small spoon, draw a cross on the top of each bun. This step gives your treat the traditional look associated with hot cross buns.

Bake the Buns

Place the buns in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Check them at the 25-minute mark—the buns should be golden brown and feel firm to the touch. I had to put mine back in for another 10 minutes after the 25 minutes.

Apply the Glaze (Optional)

If you want a shiny finish, brush the buns with a glaze made by mixing warm water with your choice of syrup. The glaze not only makes the buns look appealing but also adds a hint of sweetness. I haven’t tried this yet.

Cooling and Serving

Allow the buns to cool slightly on a rack. They taste best when still a bit warm. Enjoy them as a breakfast treat or a wholesome snack with a dollop of grass fed butter or I use coconut butter.

Recipe Tips & Variations

If you prefer a softer texture, reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes and keep a close eye on the buns so they do not dry out.
You can substitute unsweetened dried fruit with chopped nuts for an extra crunch. This simple swap introduces a new layer of flavor and texture.
If the dough feels too dry, gradually add more coconut milk until it reaches the right consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these buns without eggs?
I used a mix of flaxseed meal and psyllium husk with water as an alternative to eggs. This method worked well to bind the ingredients together. You could even try a vegan egg.

Q: What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough is overly sticky, lightly dust your hands with a bit of cassava flour while shaping the buns. This helps manage the texture without changing the overall recipe.

Q: How do I store the hot cross buns?
Keep the buns in an airtight container at room temperature. They remain delicious for a few days, and if you like them warm, simply reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving. I froze mine so that they’ll last longer. Then when you defrost them, just pop cut them in half and pop them in the toaster to warm them up.

Share Your Baking Joy

I love seeing how others enjoy this healthy treat. Every personal twist on the recipe adds to its charm and reminds me why I enjoy baking. It is satisfying to experiment with small changes that create a unique version of these buns. Each adjustment gives you a new way to appreciate this treat.

Thank you for taking the time to read and try out this recipe. The blend of wholesome ingredients with warm spices can add a touch of extra comfort to your day. I hope these instructions help you create a treat that is both tasty and nurturing, inviting you to enjoy it as a snack with your hot or cold drink.