Chocolate Hot Cross Buns Recipe: A Rich Twist on the Classic Easter Treat

Chocolate hot cross buns are the decadent upgrade you didn’t know you needed. Traditionally served during Easter, these sweet, spiced buns get a luxurious makeover with velvety chocolate chips, aromatic cardamom, and a smooth chocolate custard cross. Whether you’re baking for a holiday brunch or just want something warm and indulgent, these chocolate hot cross buns offer comfort with every bite.

Not only do they look impressive on the table, but they’re easier to make than you might think, especially when you break it down into a few simple steps. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from choosing ingredients and proofing dough to piping the cross and nailing that shiny glaze.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Hot Cross Cookie recipe for another twist on tradition.

The Rise of Chocolate Hot Cross Buns

The Origin of Hot Cross Buns

Hot cross buns have a storied past, going back to the 12th century when English monks marked buns with a flour paste cross in honor of Good Friday. Traditionally made with dried fruits and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, these buns became symbols of Easter, and superstition. In fact, they were once believed to ward off evil spirits or bring good luck when hung in the kitchen.

But tradition never stands still in the baking world.

Today’s versions come with all sorts of modern twists, and none is more tempting than the chocolate hot cross bun, which fuses age-old heritage with sweet innovation. Swapping raisins for chocolate chips and adding cocoa powder to the dough creates a rich, moist bun that’s perfect for those who love classic bread with a sweet tooth edge.

Why Chocolate Makes It Better

Let’s be honest: chocolate makes almost everything better. But it doesn’t just boost sweetness, it brings a rich depth of flavor.

In hot cross buns, chocolate does three key things:

• Amplifies the richness of the dough, especially when paired with butter and milk
  
• Balances spice like cardamom and cinnamon, making each bite complex yet comforting
  
• Delivers textural contrast, especially when using semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips that slightly melt into gooey pockets
  

Chocolate Hot Cross Buns are also a favorite with kids who may not enjoy traditional spice or fruit buns. And when you top it all off with a custard cross instead of the classic flour roux, you’re entering next-level territory. It’s soft, creamy, and flavorful, a true game changer.

So if you’re ready to reinvent your Easter tradition (or just your Sunday morning), stick around. The chocolate hot cross bun is more than a recipe, it’s an experience.

Chocolate Hot Cross Buns Recipe

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These Chocolate Hot Cross Buns are soft, chocolate-studded Easter treats with a hint of cardamom spice and a rich, creamy custard cross instead of the traditional flour paste. Perfect for a spring brunch or holiday dessert, these buns balance nostalgia with indulgence.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Proof: First Proof: 1 hour; Second Proof: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 12 people 1x
• Category: Breads, Holiday Baking, Chocolate Recipes
• Method: Baking, Proofing, Custard Piping
• Cuisine: Modern, Easter Baking

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dough:

• 3 ¾ cups (450g) bread flour

• ¼ cup (25g) Dutch-process cocoa powder

• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar

• 1 tsp ground cardamom

• 1 tsp fine sea salt

• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast (or active dry yeast, proofed)

• 1 cup (240ml) warm whole milk

• 2 large eggs

• 5 tbsp (70g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Chocolate Custard Cross:

• 2 egg yolks

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

• 2 tbsp cornstarch

• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk

• 1 tbsp Dutch-process cocoa powder

• ¼ cup (45g) dark chocolate, chopped

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Cardamom Syrup Glaze:

• ¼ cup (50g) sugar

• ¼ cup (60ml) water

• ¼ tsp ground cardamom

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix bread flour, cocoa powder, sugar, cardamom, salt, and yeast.

2. Add warm milk, eggs, and mix until combined.

3. Knead in butter until smooth and elastic (about 10 min by hand or 7 min in stand mixer).

4. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 60–90 minutes or until doubled.

Step 2: Make the Custard Cross

1. Whisk yolks, sugar, and cornstarch in a bowl.

2. Heat milk and cocoa until steaming, then slowly whisk into the egg mix.

3. Return to heat and stir constantly until thickened.

4. Remove from heat, stir in chocolate and vanilla. Let cool, transfer to piping bag.

Step 3: Shape the Buns

1. Turn risen dough onto a floured surface, knead in chocolate chips by hand.

2. Divide into 12 equal balls, place in a greased 9×13” baking dish.

3. Cover and proof again for 45–60 minutes.

Step 4: Pre-Bake and Pipe

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Score crosses into the tops of the buns.

3. Bake for 12–15 minutes, then pipe chilled custard into the scored lines.

Step 5: Finish Baking

1. Return to oven and bake an additional 10–12 minutes until buns are set and custard is firm.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

1. Simmer sugar, water, and cardamom to make a syrup.

2. Brush warm buns with glaze after baking.

3. Let cool slightly and serve warm.

 

Notes

 

• For egg-free buns, substitute each egg with 1/4 cup applesauce or 1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water.

• Make ahead: Dough can proof overnight in the fridge. Let come to room temp before shaping.

• Use plant-based milk and butter for a dairy-free version.

• These freeze well for up to 2 months—reheat in microwave or toaster oven.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12 standard-size buns
• Calories: 310 kcal
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Ingredients That Make Chocolate Hot Cross Buns Irresistible

Key Components of a Chocolate Cardamom Dough

A successful Chocolate hot cross buns recipe begins with a thoughtfully crafted dough. While traditional buns rely on mixed spices and dried fruit, this version infuses every bite with chocolate and aromatic cardamom. Here’s what makes the dough stand out:

1. Bread Flour
Bread flour gives your buns their signature structure. The higher protein content helps the dough develop gluten, which supports the chocolate and creates that pillow-soft, bready texture.

2. Cocoa Powder
Choose a good-quality unsweetened cocoa powder. Dutch-processed varieties work beautifully here for a deeper flavor and darker color, contributing to the rich look and taste of the buns.

3. Cardamom
Cardamom brings a warm, citrusy note that pairs beautifully with chocolate. Use freshly ground cardamom if possible, its brightness cuts through the richness and enhances complexity.

4. Sugar & Salt
A balanced amount of sugar gives subtle sweetness without overpowering the chocolate. Salt, on the other hand, enhances flavor clarity and reinforces the gluten structure in the dough.

5. Eggs & Milk
These add richness, color, and softness. The proteins in eggs bind the dough while milk contributes moisture for that tender crumb we all love in a perfect bun.

6. Butter
Unsalted butter, added after the initial dough formation, brings moisture and luxurious mouthfeel. Always use room temperature butter so it blends smoothly into the dough.

7. Yeast
Whether you opt for active dry or instant yeast (more on that in Part 8), ensure it’s fresh. Yeast drives fermentation, helps with rise, and influences overall flavor.

Choosing the Right Chocolate Chips and Cocoa

At the heart of chocolate hot cross buns lies, naturally, the chocolate itself.

Best Chocolate Chip Choices:

o maintain structure in your buns, fold chips into the dough by hand, post-kneading. This guarantees an even distribution and prevents the chocolate from melting too early or breaking down during baking.

Pro Tip: Lightly coat your chocolate chips in flour before mixing them in. This helps them cling to the dough and stay in place during proofing and baking.

For cocoa powder, remember:

• Use Dutch-processed for mellow richness and deep color.
  
• Natural cocoa will be lighter in color and more acidic, still usable but may react differently with leavening agents.
  

Combining these ingredients strategically gives your buns flavor, texture, and that irresistible chocolate depth that makes every bite unforgettable.

How to Make Chocolate Hot Cross Buns from Scratch

Step-by-Step Dough Preparation

Making hot cross bun chocolate might sound fancy, but it’s a manageable process when broken down into clear steps. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, follow these stages for perfect results:

1. Activate the Yeast (if using active dry):
In a small bowl, combine warm milk (around 110°F) and a teaspoon of sugar with your yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. If you’re using instant yeast, you can skip this step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, whisk together:

• Bread flour
  
• Cocoa powder
  
• Ground cardamom
  
• Salt
  
• Sugar
  

3. Add Wet Ingredients:
Pour in your yeast mixture (or just the warm milk if using instant yeast), eggs, and softened butter. Mix until the dough starts to form, then knead using a dough hook or your hands.

4. Knead Until Smooth:
Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. It should feel slightly tacky to the touch, but not sticky. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of milk. If too wet, sprinkle a little flour.

5. First Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 1–2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Learn more about proofing and baking tips in our Hot Cross Cookie article.

How to Knead and Proof for Best Results of Chocolate hot cross buns

Tips for Successful Kneading:

• Don’t rush the process, gluten needs time to develop.
  
• Try the “windowpane test”: Gently stretch a small piece of dough, if it forms a thin, translucent sheet without tearing, your dough is properly kneaded and ready.
  
• For added depth of flavor, let the dough rest in the fridge overnight. Cold fermentation improves the flavor and makes the dough easier to work with.
  

Incorporate Chocolate by Hand:
After the first proof, transfer the dough to a floured surface and gently knead in your chocolate chips. Doing this manually prevents them from melting and keeps them intact through baking.

Divide and Shape:
Portion the dough into equal pieces (typically 12 for standard buns). Roll each into a smooth ball and arrange them in a buttered baking dish or on a lined tray, leaving a bit of space between them.

Second Rise:
Cover loosely and let them rise again for about 45–60 minutes, or until puffy. Don’t skip this stage, proofing is key to getting fluffy buns.

Summary Table: Chocolate Hot Cross Buns Dough Process

With these fundamentals down, you’re ready for the delicious twist: replacing the plain flour cross with a creamy chocolate custard cross. And trust us, it’s worth it.

The Magic of the Chocolate Custard Cross

Traditional Roux vs. Chocolate Custard Cross

The cross is more than just a symbol on a hot cross bun, it’s part of its identity. Traditionally, the cross is made with a roux, a flour-and-water or flour-and-milk paste piped on before baking. While that’s classic, let’s be honest: a roux doesn’t really bring much flavor. It’s there for appearance more than taste.

But what if the cross could enhance the bun instead of just sit there?

Enter the chocolate custard cross, a creamy, velvety ribbon of chocolate that adds moisture, flavor, and flair to each bun.

Switching to a chocolate custard cross transforms these buns from a basic bake to an artisan-level dessert.

How to Pipe the Perfect Cross

To master the chocolate custard cross on your chocolate hot cross buns masterpiece, follow this method:

1. Make the Custard in Advance
Prepare your chocolate custard during the first rise of the dough. You’ll need:

• Egg yolks
  
• Sugar
  
• Cornstarch
  
• Milk
  
• Cocoa powder
  
• Dark chocolate
  
• Vanilla extract
  

Heat the milk with sugar and cocoa, then slowly whisk into the egg yolks with cornstarch. Cook until thickened, then stir in the chocolate and vanilla. Let it cool completely in the fridge before using.

Pro Tip: Pipe the custard while it’s cool but still pliable. Too warm and it will melt; too cold and it won’t pipe smoothly.

2. Score Before Baking
Before the buns go in the oven, use a sharp blade or bread lame to score a cross into the top of each risen bun. This creates a channel where the custard can sit without sliding off.

3. Bake in Two Stages

• Bake the buns halfway (about 12–15 minutes).
  
• Remove from the oven and pipe the custard into the scored trenches.
• Return to the oven to finish baking, letting the custard set into the bun’s surface.
  

4. Finish with a Glaze (Optional)
A cardamom-infused sugar syrup brushed on after baking adds gloss and another layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the custard.

Looking for more unique Easter bakes? Check out our Hot Cross Cookie recipe for a playful twist.

Baking, Glazing, and Serving Chocolate hot cross buns

Oven Timing and Techniques

Once your chocolate hot cross buns dough has risen twice and your custard cross is prepped, it’s time for the final (and most satisfying) stage, baking.

Here’s how to get it just right:

1. Preheat Your Oven Properly
Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking. Consistent heat is key for even rise and golden tops.

2. Partial Bake Before Piping
Bake the shaped and scored buns for 12–15 minutes first. This allows the structure to firm up just enough so that the custard doesn’t sink or burn.

3. Add the Custard Cross
Remove the tray from the oven and carefully pipe the chilled chocolate custard into the scored crosses. It will start to firm as it contacts the warm buns, this is normal.

4. Finish Baking
Place the buns back in the oven and bake for an additional 10–12 minutes, until the tops are gently firm and the custard is fully set. Watch the buns closely during this time, don’t overbake or the custard may dry out.

5. Check for Doneness
A well-baked bun should sound slightly hollow when tapped on the bottom and have a soft but structured top.

Making a Cardamom Glaze That Shines

Once baked, elevate your chocolate hot cross buns with a warm cardamom syrup glaze, the ultimate final touch.

Here’s a simple cardamom glaze recipe:

• 1/4 cup sugar
  
• 1/4 cup water
  
• 4 crushed green cardamom pods or 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
  

Simmer until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly (about 3–5 minutes). Strain if using whole pods, and brush it generously over the warm buns right after baking.

This glaze adds:

• A beautiful glossy finish
  
• Subtle spice that complements the chocolate
  
• Moisture that keeps the buns soft longer
  

How to Serve Chocolate hot cross buns

These chocolate hot cross buns are best served warm, slightly toasted, or fresh out of the oven. But don’t stop there, here are a few next-level serving ideas:

Tips for Storing and Reheating Chocolate Hot Cross Buns

Keeping Them Fresh for Longer

You’ve baked the perfect batch of chocolate hot cross buns, now how do you make sure they stay soft and flavorful in the days that follow?

Follow these storage tips:

1. Airtight Container Is a Must
Once completely cool, place your chocolate hot cross buns in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Store them at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.

2. Avoid the Fridge
Refrigerating the chocolate hot cross buns may seem like a good idea, but it can dry out the bread faster due to starch retrogradation. Only refrigerate if your room is very humid or warm.

3. Freeze for Later
Planning ahead? Freeze them. Wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.

To thaw, let your chocolate hot cross buns sit at room temp or microwave for 30 seconds per bun.

Optional Tip: If you’re storing buns with a custard cross, avoid stacking them, they’re delicate and may smear.

Best Ways to Toast or Microwave Without Ruining Texture

To reheat chocolate hot cross buns and keep that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel, choose your method carefully.

Avoid traditional toasters if your chocolate hot cross buns have custard on top, the filling can drip and burn. If necessary, a small baking tray in a toaster oven works just as well.

Bonus Idea: Split leftover buns in half and lightly toast them cut-side down on a pan. Add a pat of butter and watch it melt into the chocolate chips, it’s indulgent and irresistible.

Creative Twists and Leftover Ideas for Chocolate Hot Cross Buns

Using Leftover Pastry Cream Creatively

If you made extra chocolate custard (and we hope you did), don’t let it go to waste. This smooth, velvety cream is incredibly versatile and can be transformed into a wide range of quick treats.

Top ways to use leftover custard:

• Pastry Cream Toast: Spread custard on toasted slices of leftover buns and broil for 1–2 minutes until golden on top.
  
• Filling for Doughnuts or Eclairs: Pipe it into other baked goods, your weekend just got sweeter.
  
• Mini Trifles: For an easy dessert, layer chocolate hot cross bun chunks with custard and whipped cream in a glass.
  
• Chocolate Cream Dip: Serve warm custard as a dip for fruit, pretzels, or even graham crackers.
  

Fun idea: Mix your custard with a little espresso powder or orange zest for a custom-flavored dip.

Mini Versions, Sandwich Buns, or Custard Toast

These chocolate hot cross buns are more than just an Easter centerpiece. Let’s remix the format and give your baking a second (or third) life.

1. Mini Hot Cross Buns
Reduce dough ball size by half and bake them in mini muffin tins or small cake pans. These bite-sized versions are perfect for brunch tables or kids’ lunchboxes.

2. Chocolate Hot Cross Bun Sandwiches
Slice a cooled bun and fill it with:

• Whipped cream and fresh berries
  
• Mascarpone and honey
  
• Even peanut butter or Nutella for a decadent snack
  

They’re unexpectedly good and easy to pack in lunchboxes or picnic baskets.

3. Custard-Filled French Toast
Turn stale hot cross bun chocolate into a gourmet breakfast. Split buns in half, dip in egg custard, and fry until golden. Serve with a light dusting of powdered sugar and a side of leftover chocolate custard for dipping.

4. Bread Pudding
Cube the buns and mix with cream, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Bake for an ultra-moist bread pudding full of chocolate surprises in every bite.

These leftover-friendly creations ensure that nothing goes to waste, and your buns continue to impress even days after baking.

Egg-Free and Yeast Substitute Options

How to Make Egg-Free Hot Cross Buns

Whether you’re baking for someone with an allergy or following a vegan lifestyle, chocolate hot cross buns can still be delicious without eggs. Eggs provide richness and structure, but you can replace them with alternatives that offer similar moisture and binding.

Top egg replacers for this recipe:

Tips for egg-free success:

• Don’t skip the fat, make sure butter or plant-based oil is included.
  
• Add 1/4 tsp of baking powder per egg replaced to help with rise.
  
• Stick to strong bread flour; this supports the dough better when eggs are omitted.
  

Bonus: Use vegan chocolate chips and plant-based milk to make the entire bun dairy-free and vegan-friendly.

Using Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast

If you only have instant yeast on hand, no problem. It’s actually easier and faster to use than active dry yeast.

Differences between yeast types:

How to substitute:
Use the same quantity of instant yeast as active dry. Just skip the initial activation step and whisk it directly into your dry ingredients.

Other tips for using instant yeast:

• Keep your liquids warm (around 105–115°F).
  
• Dough may rise 15–20 minutes faster than with active dry yeast, keep an eye on it.
  
• Store extra yeast in the freezer to maintain potency.

Conclusion

Chocolate hot cross buns are the ultimate modern upgrade to a classic Easter tradition. With their rich chocolate cardamom dough, gooey chocolate chips, and luscious custard cross, this treat delivers both nostalgia and indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re baking them fresh for Easter brunch, gifting a tray to friends, or freezing extras for lazy weekend mornings, these buns never fail to impress.

From their storied roots to your kitchen table, chocolate hot cross buns prove that traditions evolve, and when they do, they get even more delicious.

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FAQs About Chocolate Hot Cross Buns