Hot cross buns can be creatively transformed into delightful bread puddings, perfect for Easter festivities. Options abound, from the classic interpretation to the indulgent Nutella swirl and the invigorating coconut and pineapple variation. There are savory encounters too, like ham and cheese puddings that add a unique twist. Each recipe promises a unique flavor profile, catering to various preferences. For those enthusiastic to explore more exciting variations and techniques, the possibilities are truly endless.
Classic Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding
Classic Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on the traditional bread pudding, incorporating the rich flavors of spiced hot cross buns, commonly enjoyed during Easter.
This dish is perfect for a festive brunch or a cozy dessert, serving as a beautiful way to use up leftover buns. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with an additional baking time of approximately 45 minutes, making it a manageable yet rewarding dish for home cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients:
- 6-8 hot cross buns, torn into pieces
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup raisins or currants (optional)
- Icing sugar for dusting (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place the torn hot cross buns in the baking dish, evenly distributing them across the bottom. If using, sprinkle the raisins or currants on top.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the hot cross buns, pressing down gently to guarantee all the pieces are saturated. Let it soak for about 10 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the pudding is set in the center and lightly golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Dust with icing sugar if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For added flavor, consider swirling a homemade or store-bought caramel sauce on top before baking.
- You can substitute hot cross buns with brioche or challah if hot cross buns aren’t available.
- Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added texture.
- This dish pairs nicely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for serving.
- For an extra touch, drizzle a simple glaze (made from powdered sugar and milk) over the top after baking for added sweetness.
Chocolate Chip Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding
Chocolate Chip Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on traditional bread pudding, combining the nostalgic flavors of hot cross buns with the sweet joy of chocolate chips. This dish is perfect for Easter brunch or a cozy family dessert, delighting both children and adults alike.
With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 45 minutes, it’s a quick yet impressive way to utilize leftover hot cross buns.
Ingredients
- 6 hot cross buns, cut into cubes
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the baking dish
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting, whipped cream for serving
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Add the cubed hot cross buns and chocolate chips to the mixture, gently folding until all the bread is soaked in the custard.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream.
Variations and Tips
- For added flavor, you can include raisins or other dried fruits along with the chocolate chips.
- If you prefer a richer custard, substitute half of the whole milk with heavy cream.
- To make it a bit more festive, sprinkle some nutmeg or allspice into the custard mixture.
- This dish can be prepared a day in advance! Just refrigerate it before baking and add an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Serve this dish with chocolate sauce drizzled on top for extra indulgence!
Vanilla Custard Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding
Vanilla Custard Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on traditional bread pudding, utilizing the sweet, spiced flavors of hot cross buns, typically enjoyed around Easter. This comforting dessert is perfect for family gatherings or holiday brunches and is ideal for those who appreciate rich and creamy desserts.
With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a baking time of 30-40 minutes, this bread pudding is easy to whip up and will leave your guests craving more.
Ingredients:
- 6 hot cross buns, torn into chunks
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: raisins or chocolate chips for added flavor
Cooking Steps:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Place the torn hot cross buns into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle any optional ingredients like raisins or chocolate chips on top, if desired.
4. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the hot cross buns, ensuring they are well soaked.
Gently press down with a spatula to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
5. Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes while the oven is preheating so that the buns can soak up the custard.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations and Tips:
- Enhance the flavor by adding a splash of orange or lemon zest to the custard mix.
- Substitute half of the cream with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for an additional day or two. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Spiced Apple and Raisin Bread Pudding
Ingredients:
- 6 cups of cubed day-old bread (French or Challah works well)
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 2 cups of peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup of raisins
- 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts (optional)
- Butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Add the cubed bread to the mixture, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Fold in the diced apples, raisins, and chopped walnuts (if using) into the bread mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread pudding to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm, perhaps with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Variations & Tips:
- For a richer flavor, consider adding 1/4 cup of bourbon or apple brandy to the custard mixture.
- You can substitute the raisins with cranberries or dried cherries for a different taste profile.
- To make this dish even more festive, stir in some candied orange peel or a handful of chocolate chips.
- If you prefer a crustier finish, bake the bread pudding uncovered for the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Coconut and Pineapple Hot Cross Bun Pudding
Coconut and Pineapple Hot Cross Bun Pudding is a delightful twist on the traditional bread pudding that incorporates the tropical flavors of coconut and pineapple into the classic hot cross bun.
This warm and comforting dessert is perfect for springtime celebrations, Easter brunch, or any gathering with family and friends. With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a cooking time of 40 minutes, you can whip up this indulgent treat in no time.
Ingredients:
- 4 large hot cross buns
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 2 tablespoons shredded coconut
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: additional pineapple and coconut for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the hot cross buns in half and place them in a greased 9×9 inch baking dish, cut side up.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the hot cross buns, allowing them to soak for about 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle the diced pineapple and shredded coconut over the top of the soaked buns.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional pineapple and coconut if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a splash of rum or coconut liqueur to the custard mixture.
- You can substitute regular milk or almond milk for coconut milk if you’re not a fan of coconut flavor or need to accommodate allergies.
- Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture.
- For a richer dessert, serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- You can prepare this dish a day in advance, soaking the buns in the custard overnight for even more flavor absorption! Just remember to cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Berry Blast Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding
Berry Blast Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining the flavors of spiced hot cross buns with a burst of mixed berries for a festive and satisfying treat.
This cozy dish is perfect for family gatherings, Easter brunch, or any special occasion when you’re craving a little indulgence. With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a bake time of 45 minutes, this bread pudding is easy to whip up, bringing warmth and cheer to your dining table.
Ingredients:
- 6 hot cross buns, torn into pieces
- 2 cups mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar for serving (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the torn hot cross buns and mixed berries.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the hot cross buns and berries, pressing down gently to guarantee all the bread is soaked.
- Allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- Berry Substitutions: You can use other fruits like peaches, apples, or even dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the egg mixture for a citrusy twist.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the bread pudding the night before, covering it and refrigerating. Just pop it in the oven the next day when you’re ready to bake.
Enjoy this rich and texturally delightful dessert that is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table!
Maple Pecan Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding
Maple Pecan Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on the classic bread pudding, using flavorful hot cross buns as the base. This indulgent dessert is perfect for Easter celebrations, family gatherings, or even a cozy weekend brunch.
The warm spices and sweet maple syrup provide a comforting and festive flavor that everyone will love. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and baking time is around 45 minutes, making it a relatively quick and easy dessert to whip up.
Ingredients:
- 6-8 hot cross buns, cut into cubes
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Add the cubed hot cross buns to the mixture, gently folding them in to cover with the liquid. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes so the buns can absorb the liquid.
- Fold in the chopped pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set in the center.
- Allow the bread pudding to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations & Tips:
- Add Fruits: Enhance your bread pudding by adding dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or fresh berries.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to experiment with additional spices, such as allspice or cardamom, to customize the flavor.
- Serve Warm with Sauce: For a decadent touch, serve the bread pudding warm with a drizzle of caramel or additional maple syrup.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the pudding mixture the night before and refrigerate it. Bake it fresh just before serving for a warm dessert.
- Leftovers Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Lemon Cream Cheese Hot Cross Bun Pudding
Lemon Cream Cheese Hot Cross Bun Pudding is a delightful twist on traditional bread pudding, utilizing hot cross buns as the base to create a luscious, fragrant dessert that’s perfect for Easter or any special occasion.
The combination of zesty lemon and creamy cheese provides a rich, tangy flavor that balances beautifully with the sweet spices of the buns. This dish is ideal for families or gatherings, serving as both a comforting dessert and an impressive showstopper on your holiday table.
Preparation time is about 30 minutes, with an additional baking time of 45 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 6 hot cross buns, torn into pieces
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: powdered sugar and lemon slices for garnish
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
- Fold in the torn hot cross buns, ensuring they’re well coated with the custard mixture. Let it soak for about 10 minutes so the buns absorb the liquid.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.
- Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with lemon slices if desired.
Variations & Tips:
- Add a handful of raisins or currants for extra texture and sweetness.
- For a chocolate twist, include chocolate chips in the mixture.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of lemon glaze for added indulgence.
- You can substitute half of the cream cheese with mascarpone for a lighter flavor.
- To make it ahead of time, prepare the mixture a day before and refrigerate. Just bake it when ready to serve, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Caramelized Banana Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding
Caramelized Banana Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on the classic bread pudding, perfect for Easter brunch or a cozy family gathering. This dish brings together the rich flavors of hot cross buns, the sweetness of caramelized bananas, and a creamy custard base, making it an indulgent treat that is sure to impress.
With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a baking time of around 45 minutes, this dessert is accessible for both novice and seasoned cooks alike.
Ingredients:
- 6 hot cross buns, sliced
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: whipped cream or ice cream for serving
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced bananas and brown sugar, and cook until the bananas are caramelized and soft, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Arrange the sliced hot cross buns in the prepared baking dish. Pour the caramelized bananas over the buns, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture over the buns, pressing down gently to soak the bread. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the buns to absorb the liquid.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, with optional whipped cream or ice cream on the side.
Variations & Tips:
- For added depth of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or some dried fruits like raisins or currants to the mixture.
- If you want a richer pudding, swap out whole milk for half-and-half or add an extra egg to the custard mixture.
- To make this dessert even more special, drizzle with caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
- You can also turn this dish into individual servings by using ramekins instead of a large baking dish, adjusting the baking time accordingly.
Pumpkin Spice Hot Cross Bun Pudding
Pumpkin Spice Hot Cross Bun Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that combines the flavors of spiced pumpkin and traditional hot cross buns, making it an excellent choice for Easter or any fall gathering. This dish is perfect for families or gatherings and serves about 6-8 people.
The preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a bake time of 40-45 minutes, making it a relatively quick and delightful treat to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 6-8 hot cross buns, chopped into chunks
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- Butter for greasing
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Add the chopped hot cross buns to the mixture and gently fold until the buns are fully soaked in the custard. If using, fold in the raisins or dried cranberries.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and make sure the bread pieces are evenly distributed.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Variations and Tips:
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of maple syrup or a teaspoon of nutmeg to the custard mixture.
- You can substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for the whole milk for a creamier texture.
- Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits, such as chopped apricots or figs, for a unique twist.
- This pudding can be prepared a day in advance; just cover and refrigerate the soaked mixture overnight before baking. Adjust the baking time if necessary.
- Serve with whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Nutella Swirl Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding
Nutella Swirl Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding is a delightful and indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate-hazelnut spread with the sweet and spiced profile of traditional hot cross buns.
Ideal for a special occasion like Easter or any family gathering, this dish is perfect for those who enjoy a comforting, decadent treat. With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a baking time of 35-40 minutes, it’s both easy to make and certain to please a crowd.
Ingredients:
- 6 hot cross buns, cut into quarters
- 1 cup Nutella
- 2 cups milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Arrange the quartered hot cross buns in the greased baking dish, making certain they are spread evenly.
- Drizzle dollops of Nutella over the top of the buns, swirling it slightly with a knife for a marbled effect.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture over the buns, pressing them down gently with a spoon to make sure they soak up the liquid evenly.
- Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes, giving the buns time to absorb the custard.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the pudding to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For added flavor, mix in some chocolate chips or dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, with the hot cross buns before adding the custard mixture.
- If you prefer a more custardy texture, increase the milk by half a cup.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of whipped cream for an extra treat.
- Experiment with different spreads like almond butter or peanut butter for a unique twist!
Bourbon-Infused Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding
This Bourbon-Infused Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any table, especially during Easter or special family gatherings.
The sweet, spiced flavors of the hot cross buns combined with the rich depth of bourbon create a dish that’s perfect for adults looking for a decadent, festive treat.
With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a baking time of 45 minutes, you will have a sumptuous dessert ready to impress in under an hour.
Ingredients:
- 6 hot cross buns, preferably day-old
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup raisins or currants (optional)
- Butter, for greasing the baking dish
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Tear the hot cross buns into bite-sized pieces and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, bourbon, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the torn bread, ensuring that all pieces are soaked. If you like, sprinkle raisins or currants on top.
- Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving. It can be served warm or at room temperature.
Variations & Tips:
- For added flavor, consider incorporating chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the bread pudding.
- Substitute the bourbon with rum or whiskey for a different flavor profile.
- If you want a more decadent touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzled with a warm caramel sauce.
- This dish can be made a day ahead; simply cover and refrigerate before baking, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Savory Ham and Cheese Hot Cross Bun Pudding
Savory Ham and Cheese Hot Cross Bun Pudding is a delightful twist on traditional bread pudding that perfectly marries the sweetness of hot cross buns with savory ham and cheese.
This dish is ideal for brunch gatherings or as a cozy family dinner, making it perfect for Easter celebrations or any special occasion. With a preparation time of approximately 15 minutes and a baking time of 30-35 minutes, you can whip up this comforting dish in under an hour.
Ingredients:
- 6 hot cross buns, chopped into pieces
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Gruyère)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped hot cross buns, diced ham, and shredded cheese. Mix until evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the hot cross bun mixture and gently fold until everything is coated.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and drizzle with melted butter on top.
- Optional: Sprinkle fresh thyme for additional flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations and Tips:
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella for a milder taste or blue cheese for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ham with sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a meat-free option.
- Herbs and Spices: Enhance flavor by adding herbs like rosemary or spices such as paprika to the egg mixture.
- Serving: Serve warm with a side salad or a dollop of sour cream for contrast.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
Gingerbread Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding
Gingerbread Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding is a festive, indulgent dessert perfect for Easter gatherings or cozy family meals. This delicious twist on traditional bread pudding combines the rich flavors of gingerbread spices with the classic hot cross bun, resulting in a warm and comforting treat. Ideal for serving a group, this recipe takes approximately 1 hour to prepare and bake, making it a delightful addition to your holiday menu.
Ingredients:
- 8 hot cross buns, cut into cubes
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 cup raisins or currants (optional)
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
- Powdered sugar for serving (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined.
- Add the cubed hot cross buns to the mixture, gently folding until the buns are thoroughly coated. If using, stir in the raisins or currants and orange zest.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Allow the mixture to sit for 15-20 minutes, letting the bread soak up the custard.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For a chocolate twist, consider adding dark or white chocolate chips to the mixture.
- Swap the raisins with chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch.
- If you prefer a more decadent flavor, drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the top once cooled.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
Enjoy your delightful Gingerbread Hot Cross Bun Bread Pudding as a unique centerpiece of your Easter celebration!
Orange Zest and Cranberry Hot Cross Bun Pudding
Orange Zest and Cranberry Hot Cross Bun Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic bread pudding, perfect for serving during Easter brunch or as a cozy dessert for family gatherings.
The sweet and spiced flavors of hot cross buns combined with the invigorating notes of orange and tartness of cranberries create a mouthwatering treat that everyone will adore. This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to bake, making it an accessible dish for both novice and experienced cooks.
Ingredients:
- 6 hot cross buns, cut into quarters
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- Zest of 1 orange
- 3 cups milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the melted butter.
- In a large bowl, combine the hot cross bun quarters, cranberries, and orange zest, mixing gently to guarantee even distribution.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the hot cross bun and fruit mixture in the baking dish. Confirm all pieces are soaked, pressing down gently to submerge.
- Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the buns to soak up the custard.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Variations & Tips:
- For added richness, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
- Feel free to add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for extra texture.
- You can replace cranberries with other dried fruits like raisins or apricots to suit your taste.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of orange syrup for an indulgent dessert.
