Fluffy Vegan Hot Cross Buns – Easy & Delicious Recipe

These fluffy, perfectly spiced vegan hot cross buns are a plant-based twist on the classic Easter treat that everyone loves. They’re light, tender, and generously packed with raisins, currants, citrus zest, and warm spices. Whether you’re celebrating Easter, looking for a cozy holiday breakfast, or just want a deliciously spiced roll to pair with your afternoon tea, these buns are a fantastic choice.

What’s truly special about these vegan hot cross buns is how they manage to stay perfectly soft and moist without using any eggs or dairy. Instead, we rely on simple, wholesome ingredients like dairy-free milk, oil, and a combination of aromatic spices to create that irresistible flavor and texture. The cross on top is optional but adds a beautiful traditional touch that makes these buns feel so festive.

The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make. Sure, there’s some waiting around for the dough to rise, but most of the process is hands-off. And the reward is so worth it. Picture this: you pull a tray of golden-brown buns out of the oven, the sweet and spicy aroma filling your kitchen. As you bite into a fluffy, slightly sweet bun with chewy bits of raisins and currants, all that effort melts away.

Plus, you can enjoy these buns fresh out of the oven, toasted and slathered with vegan butter, or even lightly warmed with a drizzle of maple syrup. And if you’re feeling creative, you can even experiment with different flavorings to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a keeper for so many reasons, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your bread-making journey. Here’s why these vegan hot cross buns are going to be your new favorite treat:

1. Fluffy and Soft Texture:
   These buns are beautifully airy and tender, with just the right amount of chewiness. The trick is in allowing the dough to rise properly and handling it gently throughout the process.
2. Perfectly Spiced and Citrusy:
   The combination of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, orange zest, and lemon zest creates a flavor profile that’s comforting and warm. Each bite offers a delightful mix of sweetness and spice.
3. Vegan-Friendly Without Compromise:
   You won’t miss the eggs or dairy one bit. These buns use dairy-free milk and oil to achieve that classic texture, while a simple vegan “egg” wash gives them a lovely golden-brown finish.
4. Customizable Crosses:
   Traditionally, hot cross buns are marked with a flour-and-water paste cross, but here you have the option to make a sweet icing cross instead. It’s a beautiful finishing touch that adds an extra bit of sweetness.
5. Simple Ingredients:
   All the ingredients used are easy to find and affordable. You likely already have most of them in your pantry, which makes these buns a convenient baking project.

Health Benefits

You might be surprised to learn that these vegan hot cross buns offer several health benefits, especially when made with thoughtfully chosen ingredients. While they are certainly a sweet treat, they can be a healthier choice than many other baked goods. Here’s why:

1. Dairy-Free and Cholesterol-Free:
   Because these buns are made with dairy-free milk and oil instead of butter and eggs, they contain no cholesterol. This makes them a heart-friendly option, especially for those who are mindful of their cholesterol levels.
2. Rich in Dietary Fiber:
   The raisins and currants added to the dough are not only delicious but also high in fiber. Dietary fiber is essential for good digestion, blood sugar control, and overall gut health.
3. Antioxidant Benefits:
   Cinnamon and nutmeg are rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. These spices also have anti-inflammatory properties that may support overall wellness.
4. Vegan-Friendly:
   By using plant-based ingredients, these buns are suitable for those following a vegan diet. They’re also ideal for people with lactose intolerance or those who are simply looking to reduce their consumption of animal products.
5. Customizable Nutritional Profile:
   If you’re looking to make these buns even healthier, you can swap out all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. You can also reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet version.
6. Energy Boost:
   The natural sugars from the dried fruits provide a quick source of energy, making these buns a great option for a mid-morning or afternoon snack.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Knowing the prep time and nutritional breakdown helps you plan your baking session and enjoy your buns with confidence. Here’s what you need to know:

Preparation Time:

• Activation Time (Yeast): 10 minutes
• Dough Preparation: 20 minutes
• First Rise: 1 hour
• Shaping and Second Rise: 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: About 2 hours and 20 minutes (mostly hands-off)

Servings:
This recipe makes 12 vegan hot cross buns.

Nutritional Information (Per Bun):

• Calories: 250
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 7g
• Sugars: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 160mg

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients and measurements you use.

Ingredients List

Before you start baking, make sure you have all the ingredients you need. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

The Dough:

• 1 packet active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (to activate yeast)
• 1/2 cup lukewarm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 3/4 cup dairy-free milk (lukewarm, such as almond, soy, or oat milk)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 orange)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
• 3½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup dried currants

The Vegan “Egg” Wash:

• 2 tablespoons dairy-free milk
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

The Icing (Optional Cross):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons dairy-free milk (or as needed for desired consistency)

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Making these vegan hot cross buns is easier than you might think. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying freshly baked buns before you know it.

Activate the Yeast

• In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and lukewarm water.
• Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive—try again with fresh yeast.

Prepare the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the dairy-free milk, vegetable oil, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, orange zest, and lemon zest.
• Add the activated yeast mixture and stir well to combine.
• Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once the dough starts to come together, knead it for about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes using a stand mixer with a dough hook. The dough should be soft, slightly sticky, but not overly wet.

Add the Dried Fruits

• Add the raisins and currants to the dough and knead gently until evenly distributed.

First Rise (Proofing)

• Lightly oil a large bowl and place the dough inside. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
• Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Buns

• Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release excess air.
• Turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal portions.
• Shape each portion into a smooth ball by rolling it between your hands.

Second Rise

• Arrange the shaped buns in a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan, leaving a little space between each bun for them to expand.
• Cover with a towel and let them rise for about 30 minutes until puffy.

Bake the Buns

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Mix the dairy-free milk and maple syrup to make the vegan “egg” wash.
• Brush the tops of the buns generously with the wash.
• Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown on top.

Cool and Decorate

• Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
• Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.

Prepare the Icing (Optional)

• In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and dairy-free milk until smooth.
• Pipe a cross over each bun using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off.

How to Serve

These buns are versatile and delicious on their own or paired with other tasty treats. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Warm and Fresh: Enjoy them straight from the oven or slightly reheated. Spread with vegan butter or fruit preserves for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Toasted and Crunchy: Slice them in half and toast lightly for a crispy outside and soft inside. Top with almond butter, coconut yogurt, or your favorite spread.
• Sweet Breakfast Treat: Pair your hot cross buns with a creamy plant-based latte or a comforting chai tea.
• Dessert-Style: Drizzle with maple syrup or serve alongside fresh fruit for a delightful dessert option.

Pairing Suggestions

Pairing these vegan hot cross buns with the right accompaniments can enhance their flavor and make your meal feel more special. Here are some ideas:

• Drinks: Try pairing the buns with hot beverages like spiced chai tea, dairy-free lattes, or herbal tea blends.
• Spreads: Vegan butter, almond butter, or even a touch of dairy-free cream cheese work well.
• Fruit Compotes: Homemade strawberry or blueberry compote adds a fruity burst that complements the buns’ spices.
• Savory Twist: Serve alongside a hearty vegetable soup or a warm grain bowl for a unique, satisfying meal.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Proper storage will keep your buns fresh and tasty for days. Here’s how to do it:

Storage:

• Store cooled buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate them to extend their shelf life to about 5 days, but make sure to warm them slightly before serving.

Freezing:

• To freeze, place completely cooled buns in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, let them thaw at room temperature and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Reheating:

• For best results, reheat buns in the oven or lightly toast them for a crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make them tough and chewy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Hot Milk:
   If your milk is too hot, it will kill the yeast and prevent the dough from rising. Make sure it’s only slightly warm.
2. Skipping the First Rise:
   Rushing the process will result in dense, heavy buns. Allow the dough enough time to rise properly.
3. Adding Too Much Flour:
   Adding too much flour during kneading can make the dough too dry. Stick to the recommended amount and only add extra if the dough is excessively sticky.
4. Underbaking:
   Make sure the buns are fully baked by checking if they sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Pro Tips

1. Use Fresh Yeast:
   Always check the expiration date of your yeast. Fresh yeast ensures a good rise and fluffy texture.
2. Measure Flour Correctly:
   Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Packing it in can result in dense buns.
3. Create a Warm Proofing Environment:
   If your kitchen is chilly, place your dough in an off oven with the light on for a cozy rise.
4. Customize Your Crosses:
   For a more traditional approach, mix flour and water into a paste and pipe it over the buns before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make These Buns Gluten-Free?
   Yes, you can! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum for structure. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
2. Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
   Absolutely. After shaping the buns, cover them and place them in the refrigerator overnight. Let them sit at room temperature for about an hour before baking.
3. Can I Use Different Dried Fruits?
   Yes, feel free to swap raisins and currants with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even dried apricots. Adjust sweetness levels if needed.
4. How Do I Know When the Buns Are Fully Baked?
   The buns should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
5. What’s the Best Way to Reheat the Buns?
   The best method is to reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Lightly toasting them also works well.

Conclusion & Call to Action

You’ve just learned how to make perfectly fluffy, flavorful, and gorgeous vegan hot cross buns. This recipe offers everything you love about traditional hot cross buns but with a compassionate, plant-based twist. They’re packed with citrus zest, warm spices, and juicy dried fruits, making them a comforting treat for any time of the year.

Whether you’re baking them for Easter brunch, a cozy weekend breakfast, or just because you’re craving something sweet and special, these buns won’t disappoint. They’re easy to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Now, it’s your turn to give them a try! Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy freshly baked vegan hot cross buns. You’ll love how they fill your home with a mouthwatering aroma and how satisfying they are to eat.

Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with me. I’d love to hear how your buns turned out! Leave a comment, share your thoughts, or tag me on social media. Happy baking!

Print