These traditional hot cross buns are soft, lightly spiced and sweetened with just the right touch of honey. Made from wholesome whole wheat flour and packed with plump raisins, this is a nutritious twist on a traditional Easter favorite. Finished with our signature cross and light glaze, this bread is perfect for Good Friday, Easter brunch, or any spring baking tradition!
Why you’ll love these whole wheat hot cross buns:
Hot cross buns are a beloved Easter tradition. The soft, lightly seasoned bun is dotted with raisins and topped with a cross. Baking at home is a great way to celebrate the season and create meaningful family memories. Kids can help measure ingredients, stir and knead the dough, shape the bread into rounds, and pipe a cross on top of it. Getting little hands involved not only improves your kitchen skills, but also transforms these classic spring recipes into fun, hands-on holiday traditions that everyone looks forward to every year.
- Made with 100% whole wheat flour
- Naturally sweetened with honey
- Soft and fluffy texture
- Slightly scented with cinnamon
- Perfect for Easter traditions.
Hot cross buns have been baked for centuries as a symbol of Easter. The cross represents Good Friday and the spices and dried fruits reflect old European baking traditions.
This bread offers warm spice, a soft crumb, and just the right amount of sweetness without being overly sugary.
Substitutions and Variations:
flour options
- For a lighter texture, use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
- For a milder taste, substitute white whole wheat flour.
Sweetener Exchange
- Maple syrup instead of honey
- Coconut sugar (reduce slightly)
Additional features
- dried cranberries
- raisin
- orange scent
- Mini Chocolate Chips (Kid’s Twist)
Dairy-Free Options
- Use plant-based milk
- Substitute for dairy-free butter
Storage and prep tips:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Gently reheat before serving.
- Freeze baked bread for up to 2 months.
Tips for Soft Whole Wheat Hot Cross Buns
Don’t overheat the milk
Milk that is too hot can kill the yeast. Aim for about 110°F (warm but not hot to the touch).
Knead until elastic.
Whole wheat flour develops gluten and requires proper kneading to avoid dense bread.
let them fully arise
Low-proof bread is dense. Give it enough time to double in size.
Keep it moist
Brushing with honey glaze helps retain moisture.
Serving suggestions:
Serve warm with:
- butter
- cream cheese
- honey
- jam
- fresh fruit
- scrambled eggs
It is suitable for the following cases:
- Good Friday
- easter brunch
- spring meeting
- afternoon tea
More Easter Brunch Recipes:
hot cross buns
These traditional hot cross buns combine healthy ingredients with classic flavors. Soft, slightly spicy and slightly sweet, this makes a beautiful addition to your Easter table.
Serving Size: 12
Combine warm milk and honey in a large bowl. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Add melted butter and eggs to yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
In a separate bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually stir dry ingredients into wet ingredients until a soft batter forms. Fold in the raisins.
Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. (You can also use a stand mixer with a bowl attachment for 5 to 6 minutes.)
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal portions. Shape into a smooth ball.Place lightly touching a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven 375°F.Mix flour and water to make a thick paste. Put it in a piping bag or ziplock bag and pipe it in a cross shape on each bread.
broil 18-22 minutesCooked until golden brown.
- If you heat honey with water and spread it on warm bread, it will give it a shine and a subtle sweet taste.Let cool slightly before serving.
