As the warm spring air begins to flow in, I find myself reminiscing about the comforting aroma of freshly baked hot cross buns wafting through the kitchen. Growing up, these spiced delights marked the arrival of Easter, and they always brought my family together. This year, I decided to give the classic recipe a healthy twist by incorporating chia seeds for an added nutritional boost.

Chia seeds are tiny powerhouses, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. When combined with whole grain flour and a medley of fragrant spices, these buns become not just a treat but a wholesome indulgence. Here’s how you can create your own batch of these delicious hot cross buns.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1/4 cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup almond milk (warmed)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup mixed dried fruit (like raisins, currants, and cranberries)
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • For the cross: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour and enough water to make a paste
  • For the glaze: 1/4 cup apricot jam (optional)

Instructions

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm almond milk and coconut sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the melted butter, egg, and the activated yeast mixture.

Stir until a dough forms, then add the dried fruit and chia seeds. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking tray, ensuring they are close together but not touching. Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the buns are rising, prepare the cross paste by mixing the all-purpose flour with just enough water to create a thick paste. Transfer the paste to a piping bag or a zip-lock bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe a cross over each bun.

Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. If you’d like a shiny finish, melt the apricot jam and brush it over the buns as soon as they come out of the oven.

Allow the hot cross buns to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them warm, perhaps with a spread of almond butter or simply on their own. These buns not only celebrate tradition but also contribute to a healthier lifestyle, making them perfect for gatherings or quiet afternoons alike.

As I took the first bite of my wholesome hot cross buns, I was reminded of the joy of sharing food with loved ones, and how a simple recipe can carry so much warmth and love. Happy baking!