These buns are made with whole grain flour, natural sweeteners, and just enough dried fruit for sweetness, making them lower in sugar than traditional versions. They’re soft, fluffy, and subtly sweet with the warm aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg. Whether you’re making them for Easter or as a nourishing breakfast or snack, these healthy hot cross buns will become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Whole wheat flour (or a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour)
Instant yeast
Warm milk (dairy or non-dairy)
Coconut sugar or maple syrup
Eggs
Coconut oil or olive oil
Ground cinnamon
Nutmeg
Salt
Raisins or dried currants
Orange zest (optional, for brightness)
For the cross: flour and water paste
For the glaze: a touch of maple syrup or warm apricot jam
Directions
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, coconut sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Add eggs, coconut oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and orange zest if using. Stir to combine.
Gradually add in the flour, mixing until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Add raisins or currants and knead until evenly distributed.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 10–12 equal pieces. Shape each into a ball and place on a lined baking sheet, slightly touching.
Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix flour and water to form a thick paste and pipe a cross on each bun.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
While still warm, brush the tops with maple syrup or warm apricot jam for a shiny finish.
Let cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 10–12 buns. Prep time: 20 minutes Rising time: 1 hour 45 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes Total time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
Variations
Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum, but adjust liquid as needed.
Vegan: Use a flax egg and plant-based milk, and substitute coconut oil for butter.
No dried fruit: Omit or replace with chopped nuts or sugar-free chocolate chips.
Extra fiber: Add ground flaxseed or chia seeds to the dough for a nutritional boost.
Zesty flavor: Add lemon zest along with or instead of orange zest for a citrusy kick.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a low oven for 5–10 minutes until soft and warm.
FAQs
Are these buns really low in sugar?
Yes, this version uses natural sweeteners in moderation and less dried fruit, making them significantly lower in sugar than traditional recipes.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead?
Yes, but whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients. A mix of both works well if you want a lighter texture.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise and shape/bake the next day.
Do I need to pipe the cross?
It’s traditional but optional. You can skip it or use strips of dough instead.
Can I use honey instead of coconut sugar?
Yes, just reduce the milk slightly to adjust for the extra liquid.
What dried fruits work best?
Raisins, currants, or chopped dried apricots are great options. Just avoid overly sweetened varieties.
How do I make the buns softer?
Make sure not to overbake them and keep them covered once cooled to retain moisture.
What can I serve these with?
They’re delicious on their own or with a spread of butter, nut butter, or fruit preserves.
Can kids enjoy these buns?
Definitely! They’re lower in sugar and full of wholesome ingredients, making them kid-friendly.
Can I freeze these buns?
Yes. Freeze in a single layer, then store in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Healthy Hot Cross Buns are a lightened-up take on a traditional favorite, offering warm spices, natural sweetness, and nourishing ingredients in every bite. Perfect for holiday celebrations or everyday treats, these buns prove that healthier baking can still be rich in flavor and joy. Keep a batch on hand to enjoy with tea, coffee, or as a wholesome snack any time of day.
Healthy Hot Cross Buns are a wholesome twist on the classic Easter favorite. Made with whole wheat flour, natural sweeteners, and warm spices, these lightly sweet buns are soft, fluffy, and perfect for a nourishing breakfast, snack, or holiday treat.
For the cross: 1/4 cup flour + 3 tbsp water (to make a thick paste)
For the glaze: 1 tbsp maple syrup or warm apricot jam
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, coconut sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Add the egg, coconut oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and orange zest (if using). Mix well.
Gradually add the flour, stirring until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Incorporate the raisins or currants and knead until evenly distributed.
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide into 10–12 equal pieces. Shape into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, slightly touching.
Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix flour and water to form a thick paste. Pipe a cross on each bun.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
While warm, brush tops with maple syrup or warm apricot jam for a shiny glaze.
Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For a vegan version, use a flax egg and non-dairy milk.You can omit dried fruit or replace it with nuts or sugar-free chocolate chips.Add chia or flaxseed to boost fiber and nutrition.Use a mix of lemon and orange zest for a zesty flavor variation.Store in an airtight container to keep buns soft and fresh.
