The best hot cross bun recipes

Paul Hollywood’s classic hot cross bun recipe has been given a glowing five-star rating by over 100 of our users – and with good reason. They’re packed with sultanas, mixed peel, apple and orange zest, and glazed with jam for that irresistible, shiny finish.

Get the recipe: Hot cross buns

Vegan hot cross buns

We’ve used dairy-free spread and almond milk in these incredible vegan treats, glazed with apricot jam. There’s no need for those following dairy-free and egg-free diets to miss out on these beauties!

Get the recipe: Vegan hot cross buns

Chocolate checkerboard hot cross buns

Create two moreish flavours from one batch of dough by splitting it, mid-bake – you’ll end up with alternating dark chocolate orange and white chocolate cherry buns. Of course. you’ll have to try one of each once they’re finished...

Get the recipe: Chocolate checkerboard hot cross buns

Hot cross cinnamon buns

Hot cross buns meet cinnamon swirls in this tempting hybrid recipe, topped with cream cheese icing. Enjoy as a delicious dessert, indulgent breakfast treat or in the afternoon with a cuppa.

Get the recipe: Hot cross cinnamon buns

Cranberry & orange hot cross buns

Dried cranberries add a zesty kick to these hot cross buns. The recipe is easy enough for all ages to help with – children will love getting stuck into mixing, kneading and glazing, and everyone will enjoy tucking into the finished result.

Get the recipe: Cranberry & orange hot cross buns

Chocolate & spice hot cross buns

If you’ve not tried adding chocolate to hot cross buns, you’re missing out. Dark choc makes a wonderful addition to this extra-special bake, along with plump raisins, cinnamon and orange zest.

Get the recipe: Chocolate & spice hot cross buns

Cheesy hot cross buns

Hot cross bun purists, look away now – this savoury version is topped with mature cheddar and parmesan cheese for a tangy finish. They’re a great addition to lunchboxes, or served warm with a bowl of soup.

Get the recipe: Cheesy hot cross buns

Hot cross bun ring with spiced honey butter

Who said wreaths were just for Christmas? This hot cross bun ring is a perfect centrepiece for an Easter get-together – served with a pot of moreish spiced honey butter in the middle for your guests to help themselves to.

Get the recipe: Hot cross bun ring with spiced honey butter

More hot cross bun inspiration

Hot cross bun topping ideas
The best hot cross buns and simnel cake 2020
Paul Hollywood: How to make the best hot cross buns
7 things you’ve never done with a hot cross bun

More Easter ideas

Visit our Easter hub page
Easter crafts
Fun Easter projects for kids
How to decorate an Easter egg