Soft, warmly spiced, lightly sweet, and finished with a delicate icing cross — Hot Cross Buns are the ultimate symbol of Easter baking and cozy spring mornings. But what if you could make them faster, lighter, and without yeast?
This easy Hot Cross Buns recipe skips the traditional long rise time and uses a simple yogurt-based dough that comes together in minutes. The result is tender, fluffy buns with juicy raisins and a subtle cinnamon aroma — all ready in under 40 minutes. Whether you’re baking for Easter brunch, a family breakfast, or simply craving a comforting homemade treat, this recipe delivers classic flavor with modern simplicity.
Let’s make bakery-style hot cross buns right in your kitchen — no complicated steps required.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Yeast, No Waiting – Skip proofing and rising. These buns are ready much faster than traditional versions.
- Healthier Twist – Made with Greek yogurt for added protein and a lighter texture.
- Perfect for Easter or Brunch – A festive centerpiece that looks impressive but is incredibly simple.
- Soft & Tender Texture – The yogurt keeps the crumb moist without being dense.
- Beginner-Friendly – No special equipment or advanced baking skills required.
- Oven or Air Fryer Option – Flexible cooking methods to suit your kitchen.
Unlike classic yeast-based hot cross buns, this version uses baking powder for lift and Greek yogurt for moisture. That combination creates a beautifully tender bun without hours of preparation. It’s the perfect shortcut recipe that doesn’t sacrifice tradition or flavor.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you need to prepare these easy Hot Cross Buns.
For the Dough
- 1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour (5 ounces) – You can substitute whole wheat flour for a heartier texture or a gluten-free baking blend if needed.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – Make sure it’s fresh; expired baking powder will prevent proper rising.
- 2 tablespoons raw sugar – Adds light sweetness and subtle crunch.
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon – For that signature warm spice flavor.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt – If using table salt, reduce slightly.
- 1 cup 0% plain Greek yogurt – Use thick Greek yogurt only; regular yogurt will make the dough too sticky.
- 3 tablespoons raisins – Adds sweetness and traditional character.
- 1 egg white, beaten – For brushing on top (a whole beaten egg works too).
For the Icing Cross
(Only about half will be used)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon milk or water – Adjust slightly for desired thickness.
How to Make Hot Cross Buns
Preparation Note
No chilling or resting time is required, but allow at least 30 minutes cooling time before icing for clean, defined crosses.
Oven Method
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. If using parchment, lightly spray it with cooking oil to prevent sticking. This small step ensures easy removal and better browning on the bottoms.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Sugar
- Cinnamon
- Salt
Whisking distributes the baking powder evenly, which ensures consistent rising throughout each bun.
Step 3: Add Yogurt and Raisins
Add the Greek yogurt and raisins to the dry mixture.
Using a fork or spatula, gently mix until the dough begins to come together. At first, it may look crumbly — that’s normal. Continue mixing until small clumps form and no large pockets of dry flour remain.
Avoid overmixing, as this can make the buns dense.
Step 4: Knead Lightly
Lightly dust your countertop with flour and transfer the dough onto the surface.
Knead gently for about 10–15 turns until the dough becomes soft and slightly tacky but not sticky. It should not cling to your hands when you pull away.
This short kneading step develops structure without making the buns tough.
Step 5: Shape the Buns
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions.
Roll each portion into a smooth ball by cupping your hand around it and moving in circular motions. This creates surface tension, helping the buns rise evenly.
Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Step 6: Apply Egg Wash
Brush the tops gently with beaten egg white. This promotes a golden, glossy finish during baking.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheet on the top rack of the oven.
Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until:
- The tops are golden brown
- The bottoms sound slightly hollow when tapped
- A toothpick inserted comes out clean
Avoid opening the oven frequently, as this can affect rising.
Step 8: Cool Completely
Allow the buns to cool on the baking sheet for at least 30 minutes before icing.
If you ice them while warm, the glaze will melt and lose definition.
Air Fryer Method
Step 1: Preheat
Preheat the air fryer to 325°F (165°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Step 2: Bake in Batches
Arrange buns in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
Cook for 11–12 minutes, or until golden brown. There is no need to flip them.
Cooking in batches ensures even air circulation and consistent browning.
Step 3: Cool Before Icing
Allow buns to cool for at least 30 minutes before adding icing.
Making the Icing Cross
In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar with milk (or water) until smooth and thick but pipeable.
Transfer to a small zip-top bag and snip a tiny corner.
Pipe a vertical line across each bun, then a horizontal line to form a cross.
If the icing is too thin, add a little more powdered sugar. If too thick, add a drop more liquid.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
Hot Cross Buns are best served:
- Slightly warm with butter
- With honey or fruit preserves
- Alongside tea or coffee
- As part of an Easter brunch spread
For presentation, arrange them closely on a platter so they touch slightly — this enhances the traditional look.
You can also slice and toast them lightly for a crisp exterior and soft center.
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature:
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator:
Keeps fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezer:
Wrap individually and freeze up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips
- Microwave for 10–15 seconds.
- Toast lightly for a crisp finish.
- Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes.
Avoid overheating to maintain softness.
Helpful Notes
- Always measure flour accurately to avoid dense buns.
- Use thick Greek yogurt only.
- If dough feels too sticky, add flour 1 teaspoon at a time.
- Add orange zest for extra brightness.
- Swap raisins for currants or dried cranberries.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice.
- To make them dairy-free, use plant-based Greek-style yogurt.
For a richer version, brush warm buns with a light honey glaze before icing.
Conclusion
These easy Hot Cross Buns prove that you don’t need yeast or hours of rising time to enjoy this classic Easter treat. With their tender crumb, warm cinnamon flavor, and signature icing cross, they capture tradition in a simplified, modern way.
They’re quick, approachable, and perfect for busy home bakers who still want something special on the table.
If you tried this recipe, please leave a comment and a ⭐ star rating below. Your feedback helps others and supports the recipe!
Did you add orange zest or try a different dried fruit? Let us know your variation — we’d love to hear how you made these hot cross buns your own.
Don’t forget to share this recipe on Pinterest or Facebook for others to enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these Hot Cross Buns gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for best texture.
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
It’s not recommended. Regular yogurt contains more moisture and can make the dough too sticky and dense. Stick with thick Greek yogurt.
Why didn’t my buns rise properly?
Check that your baking powder is fresh. Expired baking powder will prevent proper lift. Also avoid over-kneading the dough.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
These buns are best baked immediately after mixing. However, you can mix dry ingredients in advance and store them airtight until ready to bake.
Are Hot Cross Buns freezer-friendly?
Yes. Freeze them after baking and cooling (before icing for best results). Thaw at room temperature and warm gently before serving.
How thick should the icing be?
It should be thick enough to hold its shape when piped, but smooth enough to flow easily. Aim for a consistency similar to toothpaste.
Hot Cross Buns
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and lightly spray if needed.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
- Add Greek yogurt and raisins. Mix gently with a fork or spatula until the dough begins to come together and no large dry pockets remain.
- Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 10–15 turns until soft and slightly tacky but not sticky.
- Divide dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each into a smooth ball and place slightly apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush tops with beaten egg white for a golden finish.
- Bake for approximately 25 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely for at least 30 minutes before icing.
- For air fryer method: Preheat to 325°F (165°C). Cook buns in batches for 11–12 minutes until golden brown. Cool before icing.
- To make icing, whisk powdered sugar with milk or water until smooth and thick but pipeable. Transfer to a zip-top bag, snip a small corner, and pipe a cross over each bun.