There’s nothing quite like the combination of warm, spiced hot cross buns and the rich indulgence of chocolate and coffee. This recipe transforms traditional chocolate hot cross buns into a luscious baked dessert soaked in a velvety cream sauce.
Perfect for Easter or any time of the year, this dish is a delightful twist on classic bread pudding, incorporating deep chocolate flavours with a hint of coffee for an extra layer of warmth. The buns absorb the custard-like mixture, resulting in a dessert that’s both soft and slightly crisp on top.
Indulge in this luscious dessert where the rich flavours of chocolate and coffee intertwine perfectly. A treat that’s as simple to prepare as it is to enjoy.
These variations can make the dessert more festive, indulgent, or personalized to your taste.
Flavour Enhancements:
Caramel Lovers
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the buns before baking for a sweet, buttery twist.
- Spiced Delight: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the milk mixture to add warmth and depth of flavour.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts, pecans, or almonds over the top for added texture and nuttiness.
Chocolate Lovers’ Dreams
- Double Chocolate: Stir some chocolate chips into the milk mixture or sprinkle them over the buns before baking.
- White Chocolate Magic: Replace or mix the chocolate buns with white chocolate hot cross buns for a different flavour profile.
Fruity Options
- Berry Bliss: Add fresh or frozen raspberries or blueberries between the buns for a fruity burst.
- Tropical Paradise: Mix in shredded coconut or slices of banana for a tropical touch.
Sauce Variations
- Vanilla Infusion: Replace the coffee with vanilla extract or use a vanilla bean for a more delicate flavour.
- Irish Cream Flair: Swap a portion of the milk with Irish cream liqueur for a boozy dessert.
Festive Touch
- Easter Special: Decorate with pastel-colored icing or mini chocolate eggs for a seasonal twist.
- Holiday Spice: Use gingerbread buns and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a cozy holiday vibe.
Alternative Toppings
- Cheesecake Finish: Whip up a cream cheese frosting and drizzle it over the warm buns before serving.
- Marshmallow Magic: Place mini marshmallows on top for the last 10 minutes of baking, letting them melt and toast.
Decadent Chocolate Hot Cross Buns in Creamy Coffee And Custard
A delectable fusion of chocolate, coffee, and cream that transforms traditional hot cross buns into an irresistible dessert. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients
- 250ml milk
- 250ml cream
- 125ml strong black coffee
- 2 eggs
- 8 chocolate hot cross buns
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 170°C (338°F), or 160°C (320°F) for a fan oven.
- Grease a dessert oven dish to ensure the buns don’t stick.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
- On medium heat, combine the milk, cream, and coffee in a saucepan. Slowly warm the mixture, ensuring it doesn’t overheat. Gradually whisk in the eggs, one spoonful at a time, to avoid curdling. Set aside.
- Butter the insides of the hot cross buns and arrange them neatly in the greased dish.
- Pour the warm milk mixture evenly over the buns, ensuring they are well-soaked.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until golden and set.
- Serve warm, accompanied by ice cream or custard for an added layer of indulgence.
