There’s a special kind of joy that fills the kitchen when you take a bite of a warm, freshly baked treat. The moment I pulled these Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns from the oven, the rich scent of dark chocolate mingling with buttery brioche enveloped my senses. Perfectly soft and fluffy, these buns offer a delicious twist on a classic recipe, making them an unforgettable staple for your Easter brunch or any festive occasion.
As I savored each gooey bite, I couldn’t help but think about the endless possibilities for flavor variations—from zesty chocolate orange to spicy chili chocolate. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a bit of self-care, these buns promise to elevate any moment into something special. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, they’re surprisingly easy to make, even on a busy day. Let me take you through the delightful process of baking these decadent treats that are sure to become a beloved favorite in your home!
Why are Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns irresistible?
Decadent flavor: Rich, dark chocolate fills each bun, offering a delightful taste sensation that goes beyond the traditional.
Fluffy texture: Their soft and airy brioche base makes every bite a heavenly experience.
Endless variations: Try exciting flavors like chocolate orange or a spicy chili twist to keep things fresh and fun.
Perfect for sharing: Ideal for Easter brunch, these buns will be the star of your gathering, delighting both family and friends.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these buns will have you feeling like a pro in no time!
Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns Ingredients
For the Dough
• Warm Milk (1 Cup / 250ml) – Activates yeast and adds moisture; can be swapped with non-dairy milk for a vegan option.
• Egg (1) – Richness and binding agent; use a flax egg for vegan-friendly buns.
• White Sugar (1/2 Cup / 100g) – Adds sweetness and helps achieve that golden color; brown sugar can also work as a flavor substitute.
• Active Dry Yeast (2 tsp / 7g) – Essential for rising; if you have instant yeast, use only 1 tsp without activation.
• Bread Flour (3 1/4 Cups / 400g) – Provides the bun’s structure; all-purpose flour is an option but may alter the texture.
• Cocoa Powder (1/4 Cup / 25g) – Gives that rich chocolate flavor to the dough; Dutch-processed cocoa may also be used.
• Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough’s structure.
• Butter (4 Tbsp / 55g) – Enriches the dough with a tender crumb; margarine or dairy-free alternatives can also be used.
• Chopped Chocolate / Chocolate Chips (4.5oz / 125g) – The heart of these buns! Opt for white chocolate for a different twist or incorporate nuts for more texture.
For Chocolate Crosses
• Flour (2 1/2 Tbsp) – Needed for the piped crosses on top of the buns.
• Cocoa Powder (1 tsp) – Adds an extra chocolatey touch to the crosses.
• Water (2 Tbsp) – To create a smooth piping mixture.
For Glaze
• White Sugar (1/4 Cup / 50g) – Sweetens and adds shine to the buns; adjust for desired sweetness.
• Water (1/4 Cup / 60ml) – Helps create a syrup to brush on right after baking for a delicious finish.
Get ready to enjoy these heavenly Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns, perfect for sharing during special occasions or just pampering yourself!
How to Make Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns
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Whisk Together: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, egg, and white sugar. Stir in the active dry yeast and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes until frothy. This step is crucial for activating the yeast!
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer, blend the bread flour, cocoa powder, the remaining sugar, and salt. This mixture forms the base for your luxurious buns, so ensure everything is evenly combined.
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Combine: Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough begins to form. Add the softened butter and knead until smooth, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
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Add Chocolate: Gently knead in the chopped chocolate until evenly distributed. Shape the dough into a ball then place it in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 2 hours or overnight in the fridge for richer flavor.
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Shape the Buns: After rising, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 even portions. Shape each piece into a round ball and place them in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between them. Allow to rise for another hour until puffed up.
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Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F. While waiting, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, and water for the chocolate crosses. Pipe crosses onto the buns using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off.
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Bake: Place the buns in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until they’re golden brown. Brush the warm buns with the sugar glaze immediately upon removal from the oven to give them a sweet finish.
Optional: Enjoy them warm, toasted with a pat of butter for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns Variations
Customize your buns with delightful flavors and textures that tickle your taste buds!
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Citrus Zest: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the dough for a refreshing chocolate orange twist. The bright fragrance enhances the overall flavor beautifully.
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Chili Chocolate: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper with the cocoa powder to introduce a gentle heat, perfect for adventurous palates. This combination will create an enticing surprise in every bite.
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped nuts like pecans or hazelnuts for added texture. Their crunchiness will contrast beautifully with the soft brioche and gooey chocolate.
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Dried Fruits: Incorporate dried cranberries or apricots into the dough for a sweet, chewy addition. This not only boosts flavor but also adds a visual appeal with bursts of color.
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Caramel Swirls: Create swirls of caramel throughout the dough by folding in a bit of store-bought caramel sauce before shaping the buns. It turns into a decadent center that’s hard to resist!
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Cream Cheese Filling: For a rich, creamy surprise, add a dollop of sweetened cream cheese in the center of each bun before they rise. This will create a delightful contrast of flavors.
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Maple Glaze: Swap the sugar glaze for a maple syrup glaze to provide a cozy, natural sweetness. This adds a delightful layer of flavor that resonates wonderfully with the chocolate.
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Chocolate Variations: Experiment with types of chocolate by using milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even flavored chocolates like hazelnut or raspberry for a unique twist. Each variety brings a new dimension to your buns.
Make Ahead Options
These Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! To save time on busy mornings, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first four steps of the recipe, then shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor. When you’re ready to bake, take the dough out and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before dividing it into portions and allowing it to rise for an hour. This method ensures your buns are just as delicious and fluffy, allowing you to enjoy fresh, warm buns with minimal effort during your busy week.
Expert Tips for Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns
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Overnight Rise: For the best flavor, consider letting the dough rise overnight in the fridge. This enhances taste and texture.
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Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature. This helps it blend into the dough effortlessly, ensuring a tender crumb in your buns.
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Watch the Baking Time: If you decide to make smaller buns, reduce the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, which can lead to dryness.
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Froth the Yeast Properly: Allow the yeast mixture to sit until frothy before mixing with the dry ingredients. This activation is crucial for fluffy, risen buns.
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Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Incorporate spices or citrus zest for sensational variations of your Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns.
Storage Tips for Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns
Room Temperature: Store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days to maintain their soft texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the buns in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Alternatively, toast them lightly for that fresh-baked taste.
Tips for Freshness: Always store your Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns away from direct sunlight and humidity to keep them deliciously soft.
What to Serve with Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns?
These delightful buns are perfect for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere at your special gatherings.
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Creamy Butter: Spreading a generous pat of rich butter enhances the sweet chocolate flavor, making each bite a sheer indulgence.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like berries or citrus add a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness of the buns with a burst of tartness.
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Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey over each bun amplifies their sweetness, offering a decadently sticky finish that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
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Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea complement the chocolate, creating a cozy, aromatic experience perfect for a leisurely brunch.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a more indulgent treat, serve warm buns with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing the chocolate to melt and create a rich dessert moment.
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Nutty Chocolate Spread: Slather on some chocolate-hazelnut spread for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness that will have everyone coming back for more!
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Mocha Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed mocha coffee will enrich the chocolate flavors in the buns, creating a delightful pairing for your morning or midday treat.
Each of these pairings enhances the experience of enjoying your Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns, making them a cherished centerpiece at your table!
Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns Recipe FAQs
What kind of milk should I use for the dough?
Absolutely! You can use warm milk to activate the yeast and add moisture. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, almond or oat milk works wonders too!
How should I store Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns?
To maintain their delightful softness, keep the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, freezing is a great option!
Can I freeze these buns? How do I do it?
Absolutely! I recommend placing the unbaked buns on a baking sheet to freeze them individually first. Once frozen solid, transfer them into an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be safely stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before baking!
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Don’t worry! If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure the milk is warm (not hot!) when activating the yeast, as extreme temperatures can kill it. If you’ve added the ingredients correctly and it still doesn’t rise, try placing it in a warmer location to encourage fermentation.
Are there any dietary considerations for my pets with these buns?
Yes, definitely! While these buns are a delightful indulgence for humans, be mindful of the ingredients like chocolate which can be toxic to pets, especially dogs. It’s best to keep these tempting treats away from your furry friends!
Can these buns be made vegan? What adjustments are necessary?
Very! You can make these Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns vegan by substituting the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes). Use non-dairy milk and margarine or coconut oil in place of butter. You’ll still get that deliciously soft texture with a few simple tweaks!
Brioche Chocolate Hot Cross Buns for an Easter Treat Burst
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk Together: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, egg, and white sugar. Stir in the active dry yeast and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer, blend the bread flour, cocoa powder, the remaining sugar, and salt.
- Combine: Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough begins to form. Add the softened butter and knead until smooth.
- Add Chocolate: Gently knead in the chopped chocolate until evenly distributed. Shape the dough into a ball and let it rise.
- Shape the Buns: After rising, punch down the dough and divide it into 8 portions. Shape into balls and place in a greased baking dish.
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F. Mix together the ingredients for the chocolate crosses.
- Bake: Place the buns in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with sugar glaze immediately.