Hot Cross Bun Doughnuts

Name: Hot Cross Bun Doughnuts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Ingredients: 50g (1.7 oz) raisins; 3 tbsp orange marmalade (for glaze); Erythritol for coating; Flour + water paste (for crosses); 50g (1.7 oz) unsalted butter; 180ml (¾ cup) milk; 1 large egg; 350g (12.3 oz) strong white bread flour; 7g (2 tsp) dried active yeast; 35g (1.2 oz / 3 tbsp) erythritol; ½ tsp salt

These Hot Cross Bun Doughnuts take the classic flavours of hot cross buns and turn them into soft, fluffy, and fragrant doughnuts. Perfectly spiced, lightly sweetened, and packed with dried fruit, these doughnuts are air-fried instead of deep-fried, making them a lighter yet equally delicious alternative.

Hot cross buns are a staple Easter treat, traditionally baked with yeast dough, spiced with cinnamon, and studded with dried fruit. In this recipe, the dough is enriched with butter and milk for an extra soft texture, and instead of baking in the oven, these doughnuts are air-fried to achieve a golden brown crust with a light and airy inside.

To finish, they’re glazed with orange marmalade for a glossy, slightly tangy finish and coated in erythritol instead of sugar, making this a lower-sugar version while still delivering a sweet and satisfying taste. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the air fryer or slightly warmed later, these Hot Cross Bun Doughnuts are a delightful twist on a traditional favourite.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Easier than traditional doughnuts – No deep frying required!
Soft and fluffy texture – Thanks to the enriched dough and proper resting times.
Healthier alternative – Uses erythritol for a lower sugar option and is air-fried instead of deep-fried.
Delicious Easter treat – Classic hot cross bun flavours in a doughnut form.
Fragrant and spiced – Perfectly flavoured with dried fruit and a hint of citrus.
Great for sharing – Perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or Easter celebrations.

Ingredients (Makes 8 Doughnuts)

Dry Ingredients

350g (12.3 oz) strong white bread flour – Provides structure for a fluffy yet chewy texture.
7g (2 tsp) dried active yeast – Essential for rising and lightness.
35g (1.2 oz / 3 tbsp) erythritol – A low-sugar alternative; can be swapped for caster sugar.
½ tsp salt – Enhances flavour and strengthens the dough.

Wet Ingredients

50g (1.7 oz) unsalted butter – Adds richness and a soft texture.
180ml (¾ cup) milk – Creates a tender dough; can use whole or semi-skimmed.
1 large egg – Helps bind and enrich the dough.

Extras

A handful (approx. 50g / 1.7 oz) of raisins – Adds natural sweetness and texture.
3 tbsp orange marmalade – For glazing; gives a glossy, citrusy finish.
Erythritol for coating – Adds a light sweetness without the sugar content.

Method

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, salt, erythritol, and yeast. Set aside.
Warm the milk slightly, just enough to melt the butter when stirred in. Whisk in the egg.

2. Mix and Knead the Dough

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface, oil your hands to prevent sticking, and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic.

3. First Rise (Proofing)

Lightly oil a clean bowl, place the dough inside, and cover it.
Let it rest in a warm place for 50 minutes or until it doubles in size.

4. Shape the Doughnuts

Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface.
Divide into 8 equal portions and shape each piece into a smooth ball.
Place the dough balls on a lined tray and let them rest for 40 minutes (second rise).

5. Make the Crosses

Mix a small amount of flour and water to form a thick paste.
Using a piping bag or bottle, draw a cross over each dough ball.

6. Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
Place the doughnuts inside and cook for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

7. Glaze and Coat

While warm, brush the doughnuts with orange marmalade.
Roll them in erythritol for a light sugary coating.
Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Nutrition (Per Doughnut – Approximate Values)

Calories: ~210 kcal
Protein: ~6g
Fat: ~6g
Carbohydrates: ~32g
Sugar: ~4g (depending on erythritol use)

Tips for Making This Recipe

Use warm milk (not hot) – Hot liquid can kill the yeast and prevent rising.
Knead well – The dough should feel soft and elastic after kneading.
Don’t skip the second rise – This ensures a light and fluffy texture.
Use a piping bag for the crosses – Makes it easier to get neat shapes.
Preheat the air fryer – Helps cook the doughnuts evenly.
Brush with marmalade while warm – Allows the glaze to soak in better.
Store properly – Keeps them fresh for longer (see below).

How to Best Serve This Recipe

With a cup of tea or coffee – A perfect mid-morning or afternoon treat.
Drizzled with extra honey or marmalade – For added sweetness.
With clotted cream or butter – A decadent twist.
Paired with fresh fruit – Berries complement the citrusy glaze.
As part of an Easter brunch – Serve alongside other festive treats.
Warmed up in the air fryer – Refreshes the texture before serving.

Customise This Recipe

Swap raisins for other dried fruit – Try cranberries, sultanas, or chopped apricots.
Make it dairy-free – Use plant-based butter and almond milk.
Add mixed spice or cinnamon – For extra warmth and flavour.
Use a different glaze – Honey, maple syrup, or a light icing sugar glaze work well.
Make them more indulgent – Dip in melted chocolate instead of marmalade.
Try a different flour – Use wholemeal flour for a denser, nuttier flavour.

How to Store This Recipe

Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Fridge – Can be kept for up to 5 days but may dry out slightly.
Freezer – Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Defrost and reheat before serving.
To Reheat – Warm in the air fryer at 160°C (320°F) for 5 minutes.

Conclusion

These Hot Cross Bun Doughnuts are a fun and delicious take on the classic Easter treat. They bring together the best of hot cross buns and doughnuts—fluffy, fragrant, and coated in a sweet glaze. Air-frying makes them lighter than traditional doughnuts while keeping them just as satisfying.

Whether you make them for Easter, a weekend brunch, or simply as a treat, they’re sure to impress. With an easy-to-follow process, minimal sugar, and endless customisation options, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your collection.

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