Introduction

Chocolate hot cross buns combine the classic flavor of traditional hot cross buns with a delightful twist of chocolate. Perfect for a cozy brunch or an indulgent treat during the Easter season, these buns are easy to prepare and are sure to please both children and adults alike. Packed with rich chocolate and fragrant spices, they are a warm and comforting addition to any table.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Strong white bread flour: 500g
– Cacao powder: 40g
– Instant yeast: 10g
– Mixed spice: 1 teaspoon
– Salt: 10g
– Sugar: 75g
– Whole milk: 300ml
– Unsalted butter: 50g
– Eggs: 2
– Dark chocolate, chopped: 200g
– Water: as needed
– Apricot glaze: for finishing

Prep Time

Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes is needed for preparation, including mixing, kneading, and allowing the dough to rise.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Yield: About 12 hot cross buns

These chocolate hot cross buns are a wonderful twist on a classic recipe, perfect for sharing with family and friends during festive occasions or enjoying as a delectable snack any time of the year.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and add warm milk, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Mix until it forms a dough.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and leave to rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Add Chocolate

Once risen, turn the dough onto a floured surface. Flatten gently and sprinkle in chopped chocolate. Fold the dough over and knead gently to incorporate the chocolate.

Step 5: Shape the Buns

Divide the dough into equal pieces and shape each piece into a bun. Place them onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are close but not touching.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the buns with a cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

While the buns are rising, preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F).

Step 8: Prepare the Topping

Mix flour, water, and a bit of sugar in a small bowl until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag for easy application.

Step 9: Pipe the Topping

Once the buns have risen, use the piping bag to create a cross on each bun.

Step 10: Bake the Buns

Place the buns in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 11: Glaze the Buns

While the buns are baking, heat apricot jam in a saucepan. Once the buns are out of the oven and slightly cooled, brush them with the warm jam to give a nice glaze.

Notes

Note 1: Yeast Activation

Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.

Note 2: Chocolate Choices

Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Dark chocolate pairs well with the richness of the buns.

Note 3: Storage

Store any leftover buns in an airtight container. They can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Cook techniques

Mixing the dough

Combine the flour, sugar, and yeast before adding warm milk and butter to activate the yeast and help form a sticky dough.

Kneading

Knead the dough by hand or using a mixer for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which helps develop the gluten structure.

First proving

Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. This can take about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the temperature.

Shaping the buns

After the first proving, divide the dough into equal pieces and shape them into rounds, ensuring a tight surface for even baking.

Second proving

Let the shaped buns rise again until they are puffed up and touching each other, which creates a soft texture.

Baking

Bake the buns in a preheated oven until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Glazing

Brush the warm buns with a honey or syrup glaze to give them a shiny finish and enhance their sweetness.

FAQ

Can I use different types of flour?

Yes, you can experiment with different flours, but all-purpose flour is recommended for optimal texture.

How do I know when the buns are fully baked?

The buns should be golden brown and produce a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it after the first proving. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping.

What can I substitute for milk?

You can use almond milk or other non-dairy milk alternatives, but make sure they are warm when added to the mixture.

How should I store leftover hot cross buns?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Conclusion

These chocolate hot cross buns are a delightful twist on a traditional favorite, combining the rich flavors of chocolate with the soft, spiced bread. Perfect for sharing during festive gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea, these buns certainly bring warmth and joy to any occasion.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Chocolate Chip Brioche Buns

Indulge in fluffy brioche filled with semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich, sweet treat.

Spiced Orange Hot Cross Buns

Add a zesty twist by incorporating orange zest and spice into your hot cross buns for a refreshing flavor.

Nutty Banana Chocolate Buns

Combine mashed bananas and toasted nuts with chocolate to create a unique flavor profile for your buns.

Pecan and Praline Chocolate Buns

Enhance your chocolate hot cross buns with a crunchy pecan topping and a sweet praline drizzle.

Matcha White Chocolate Buns

Experiment with a green tea flavor combined with creamy white chocolate for a unique and visually stunning bun.