Hot cross buns are a cherished Easter tradition. Whether spiced, slightly sweet or studded with fruit, they're wonderfully versatile. We've transformed these classic buns into creative and unexpected dishes, so whether you’re hosting Easter brunch or want crowd-pleasing treats, these recipes will bring flair and deliciousness to your celebration.

1. Hot cross bun breakfast butties 

Give your Easter morning a flavour boost with these breakfast butties. Toasted hot cross buns are filled with crispy pork rashers, fried free-range eggs and rich cheese – a satisfying way to start the day before hunting for eggs.

 Hot cross bun breakfast butties recipe

2. Hot cross beef burgers with spicy slaw

Turn spiced buns into the ultimate Easter twist on burgers. Seasoned beef patties are cooked and marinated in a spicy BBQ glaze, then served in toasted hot cross buns with creamy slaw with a chilli kick, and provolone cheese. A fun, flavour-packed idea for a main course.

Hot cross beef burgers with spicy slaw recipe

3. Hot cross bun French toast

For an Easter brunch classic, use thickly sliced hot cross buns instead of bread for French toast. Soaked in creamy egg custard and pan-fried until golden, this sweet and comforting dish is delicious with maple syrup, berries or a dusting of sugar.

 Hot cross bun french toast recipe

4. Hot cross bun bread-and-butter pudding

Perfect for using up extra buns, this easy baked pudding layers sliced hot cross buns with rich custard and bakes them to tender, golden perfection. Serve warm with cream or custard for a dessert that’s nostalgic and indulgent.

Hot cross bun bread-and-butter pudding recipe

5. Ivor Jones's Easter honeycomb smash hot cross buns 

Here’s a playful sweet treat: soft hot cross buns topped and “smashed” with crunchy honeycomb pieces for a brilliant contrast of textures and flavours. They're festive, fun and perfect for sharing over coffee or tea.

 Ivor Jones’s Easter honeycomb smash hot cross buns  recipe

Find more hot cross bun recipes here.

This content was created with AI assistance, however it was fact-checked, edited and ideated by actual human beings at TASTE.