Hot Cross Buns 5 Ways: Creative Twists on a Classic Easter Treat

Hot Cross Buns 5 Ways: Creative Twists on a Classic Easter Treat

Hot Cross Buns are a beloved Easter tradition, and there’s nothing quite like the warm, spiced aroma filling our kitchen as they bake. At Phillippa’s Bakery, we’ve perfected our handmade Hot Cross Buns, offering a delicious, freshly baked treat that’s sure to make any occasion egg-xtra special! These buns are perfect not only for your Easter celebrations, but for sharing with family, friends and colleagues during your get-togethers. Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch, an afternoon tea, or simply enjoying a cozy moment with loved ones, our Hot Cross Buns are the ideal way to elevate your gathering. But why stop there? We’ve got 5 creative and delicious ways to enjoy them that will leave everyone asking for more!

1. Classic with Butter (with a Twist)

Sometimes, simplicity is best. The classic way to enjoy Hot Cross Buns is fresh or toasted with a generous smear of cold butter. But why not take it up a notch? Add a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a warm, spiced kick. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence — ideal for a cozy Easter breakfast or afternoon tea!

2. Hot Cross Bun Ice Cream Sandwiches

Looking for a show-stopping dessert? Look no further than Hot Cross Bun Ice Cream Sandwiches! Slice your buns in half, lightly toast and fill them with your favourite ice cream — whether it’s a classic vanilla bean or something a little spicier like cinnamon ice cream. The combination of soft, warm buns and creamy ice cream is a decadent treat that will wow your family and friends this Easter. Or try our Toasted Hot Cross Bun Ice Cream recipe and watch the kids come back for more!

3. Easter Bread & Butter Pudding

Take your Hot Cross Buns to the next level by transforming them into a comforting bread and butter pudding. Layer the buns with a rich custard, bake them to golden perfection, and enjoy the warm, spiced flavour with every bite. This easy-to-make dessert is the perfect way to enjoy your buns long after Easter Sunday has passed. (Need a recipe? Check out ours for the perfect individual Hot Cross Bun & Butter Puddings!)

4. Savoury Hot Cross Bun Sandwiches

Who says Hot Cross Buns have to be sweet? For something completely different, try turning them into savoury sandwiches. The subtle spice of the buns pairs beautifully with roasted meats like lamb or turkey, along with tangy cheese and fresh greens. If you use turkey, you could add a little Spiced Cranberry Orange Sauce to enhance the spices and candied orange flavours in the buns! Serve them for Easter brunch or a special office treat, and you’ll be amazed by how these buns elevate your meal.

5. Hot Cross Bun French Toast

If you’re in the mood for a truly indulgent breakfast, Hot Cross Bun French Toast is the way to go. Simply soak the buns in an egg mixture with cinnamon, vanilla, and a splash of milk, then fry them until golden. Serve with fresh fruit, maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar or try our Hot Cross Bun French Toast with Saffron & Lemon. This show-stopping breakfast that will have everyone asking for seconds!

These are just a few of the many creative ways you can enjoy Phillippa’s traditional, handmade Hot Cross Buns this Easter. Whether you prefer them the classic way with butter or you’re ready to try one of these exciting twists, there’s no better time to indulge in our freshly baked, hand-crafted buns. But don’t wait too long — we only freshly bake our aromatic buns during the Easter season, and they are known as one of the best Hot Cross Buns in Melbourne, so they’re in high demand!                                                                 

Pro Tip for Maximum Freshness

While our Hot Cross Buns are undeniably best when enjoyed fresh out of the oven, we know that Easter celebrations can get busy! To ensure you never run out of your favourite treats, store any leftovers in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to a month. Simply pop them in the toaster or oven to refresh their soft, spiced goodness — just like they were freshly baked — or add them into your favourite recipe! That way, you can enjoy the warmth and aroma of Phillippa’s Hot Cross Buns whenever you like. Stock Up on Hot Cross Buns for Easter!

Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch, treating family and friends, or impressing colleagues with a thoughtful office treat, make sure you have enough Hot Cross Buns to share! Order today and ensure you’ve got plenty of these irresistible treats on hand for your Easter celebrations. Visit our online store to order now or head to our Armadale & Brighton stores to pick up your buns fresh out of the oven.

Happy Easter from Phillippa’s Bakery — where every bun is individually handmade and baked with love and premium, all-natural ingredients!