Spelt Hot Cross Buns for Easter

A Healthier Take on a Classic

Spelt Hot Cross Buns bring a wholesome twist to the traditional Easter bake. Made with light spelt flour, warm spices, and a touch of fruit, these buns are soft, lightly sweet, and full of flavour. They’re simple to make and fill the kitchen with that comforting, spiced aroma everyone loves.

Why You’ll Love Them

This version uses spelt flour for a gentle, nutty flavour and better digestibility. They’re dairy-free and easily adapted for vegan diets. The result? A tender, golden bun with a beautiful cross and just the right sweetness. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an Easter treat with tea.

Prep Time 25 mins

Cook Time 20 mins

Rest Time 90 mins

Total Time 2 hrs 15 mins

Cuisine: British

Courses: Breakfast, Brunch, snack

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 12

Estimated Cost: 5.20

Calories: 210

Best Season: Spring

Dietary: Dairy-Free, High Fiber, Nut-free, Vegan

Description

Soft, spiced, and slightly nutty Easter buns made with spelt flour, dried fruit, and warm spices. A lighter, wholesome twist on the classic hot cross bun.

Ingredients

For the buns:

500 g white or wholegrain spelt flour
75 g light brown sugar
7 g dried yeast (1 packet)
1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp mixed spice
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp sea salt
300 ml warm almond milk (or any plant milk)
50 g vegan butter (melted)
1 medium orange (zest only)
100 g mixed dried fruit (sultanas, raisins, or currants)

For the crosses:

50 g plain flour
5 tbsp water (approx.)

For the glaze:

2 tbsp maple syrup or apricot jam, warmed

Instructions

Activate the yeast:

1
In a jug, mix warm almond milk with 1 tsp sugar and yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes until frothy.

Mix the dry ingredients:

2
In a large bowl, combine spelt flour, brown sugar, salt, and spices. Add orange zest and dried fruit.

Combine wet and dry:

3
Pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a soft dough forms.

Knead the dough:

4
On a floured surface, knead gently for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

First rise:

5
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Shape the buns:

6
Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape into balls and place on a lined baking tray, slightly touching.

Second rise:

7
Cover and let rise for another 30–40 minutes.

Make the crosses:

8
Mix flour and water to form a smooth paste. Pipe crosses over the buns using a small piping bag.

Bake:

9
Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (170°C fan) for 18–20 minutes, until golden brown.

Glaze:

10
Brush warm buns with maple syrup or apricot jam for shine. Cool on a wire rack before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12

Amount Per Serving
Calories 210kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 4g7%
Saturated Fat 1g5%
Sodium 120mg5%
Potassium 160mg5%
Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
Dietary Fiber 4g16%
Sugars 10g
Protein 6g12%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Additional Notes:

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Best enjoyed warm or lightly toasted.
Freeze for up to 2 months and reheat before serving.

Keywords: spelt hot cross buns, Easter baking, healthy hot cross buns, dairy-free, spelt flour recipe

Tips & Variations

How to Customise

Add zest: Try lemon instead of orange for a sharper flavour.
Use wholegrain spelt: Adds extra fibre and a richer taste.
Gluten-free alternative: Substitute with a gluten-free bread mix (texture may vary).
Extra indulgence: Add vegan chocolate chips or chopped dried apricots.

If you prefer a richer bun, brush with melted vegan butter before serving. These make a great Easter breakfast or afternoon treat with tea.

Conclusion

These Spelt Hot Cross Buns are soft, aromatic, and perfect for Easter baking. They’re easy to make, lighter than traditional buns, and taste just as comforting. Share them warm from the oven with friends and family this Easter—it’s a bake that brings everyone together.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-hot-cross-buns-for-easter/

Valentina

A dietitian with a passion for spelt cooking. After trying different diets, I found spelt works best in my kitchen. Join me for simple, delicious recipes that bring out the best in this ancient grain!