These Vegan Hot Cross Buns are a soft, spiced, and lightly sweetened Easter classic, made entirely dairy-free and egg-free. Infused with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and citrus flavors, these buns are studded with raisins and candied orange peel for a delightful texture. Topped with a signature flour cross and finished with a maple glaze, they make a perfect Easter breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Traditional Easter Treat – A beloved classic with a vegan twist.
- Soft and Fluffy – Light, airy, and perfectly spiced.
- Naturally Sweet and Fragrant – Raisins, candied orange peel, and warm spices add depth of flavor.
- Dairy-Free and Egg-Free – Ideal for vegans and those with dietary restrictions.
- Perfect for Sharing – A great addition to Easter gatherings or springtime baking.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup warm almond milk
- ¼ cup vegan butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup raisins or currants
- ¼ cup chopped candied orange peel
Cross Paste:
Glaze:
Directions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Mix the wet ingredients: Add warm almond milk, melted vegan butter, and vanilla extract. Stir to form a dough.
- Knead the dough: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes soft and elastic.
- Add the mix-ins: Fold in the raisins and chopped candied orange peel.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the buns: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal balls. Arrange them in a greased baking tray.
- Second rise: Cover and let the buns rise for another 30 minutes.
- Prepare the cross paste: Mix flour and water until a thick paste forms. Pipe crosses onto each bun.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Glaze: Brush warm buns with maple syrup for a glossy finish.
- Cool and serve: Allow to cool slightly before enjoying.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 buns
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Hot Cross Buns – Replace raisins with dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweeter version.
- Nut-Free Option – Simply omit the candied orange peel and replace it with extra raisins.
- Whole Wheat Version – Swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
- Extra Citrus Flavor – Add orange zest or lemon zest to the dough for a brighter taste.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation – Use a gluten-free flour blend, but expect a slightly different texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- Freezing: Freeze baked buns in an airtight bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough, let it rise, then refrigerate it overnight before shaping and baking.
What plant-based milk works best?
Almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk all work well in this recipe.
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, but activate it first by dissolving it in warm almond milk with a teaspoon of sugar for 5-10 minutes.
How do I get the buns extra fluffy?
Make sure the dough has enough time to rise fully before baking. A warm environment helps with a better rise.
Can I make these buns without the cross?
Absolutely! The cross is traditional, but you can leave it off if desired.
Can I use a different glaze?
Yes, apricot jam or a simple sugar syrup can be used instead of maple syrup.
How do I prevent the buns from drying out?
Cover them with a clean kitchen towel as they cool to retain moisture.
What is the best way to serve hot cross buns?
They are delicious warm with a spread of vegan butter or jam.
Can I add nuts to the dough?
Yes, chopped almonds or pecans make a great addition for added crunch.
Why did my buns turn out dense?
Over-kneading or not allowing enough time for rising can lead to dense buns. Ensure the dough is soft and has risen properly before baking.
Conclusion
These Vegan Hot Cross Buns bring all the traditional flavors of Easter in a soft, spiced, and perfectly sweetened form—without any dairy or eggs. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven, toasted with butter, or served alongside an Easter brunch, these buns are a delightful and festive treat. Try them this Easter and make a new plant-based tradition!
