High Protein Hot Cross Buns

Elevate your Easter baking with these High Protein Hot Cross Buns, a wholesome twist on the classic treat! Packed with 50g of whey protein powder, these buns deliver a satisfying boost of protein without compromising on their soft, pillowy texture. Flavored with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and infused with sweet bursts of raisins and zesty orange, these buns are the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition. The signature cross on top is piped with a simple flour paste, while a glossy apricot glaze adds the perfect finishing touch. Ready in under two hours, these buns are not only delicious but also ideal for anyone seeking a higher-protein alternative to traditional baked goods. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a post-workout snack, they’ll have you coming back for more bite after bite!

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 250 g All-purpose flour
• 50 g Whey protein powder
• 7 g Quick-rise yeast
• 50 g Granulated sugar
• 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 tsp Ground nutmeg
• 0.5 tsp Salt
• 150 ml Milk
• 50 g Unsalted butter
• 1 Large egg
• 75 g Raisins
• 1 tbsp Orange zest
• 30 g All-purpose flour (for crosses)
• 30 ml Water (for crosses)
• 2 tbsp Apricot jam

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whey protein powder, quick-rise yeast, and granulated sugar. Add the ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Step 2

In a small saucepan, heat the milk over low heat until just warm. Remove from heat and add the unsalted butter, stirring until melted.

Step 3

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk mixture. Add the egg. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 4

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Step 5

Flatten the dough slightly and scatter the raisins and orange zest over it. Knead gently until they are distributed evenly throughout the dough.

Step 6

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 60 minutes or until doubled in size.

Step 7

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round bun and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, about 1 inch apart.

Step 8

Cover the buns with a towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.

Step 9

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Step 10

To prepare the paste for crosses, mix 30g of all-purpose flour with 30ml water to form a smooth paste. Transfer the paste into a piping bag and pipe a cross over each bun.

Step 11

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 12

While the buns are baking, gently heat the apricot jam in a small saucepan until it becomes smooth and runny. Use a pastry brush to glaze the tops of the hot buns as soon as they come out of the oven.

Step 13

Allow the buns to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	808.9 grams (808.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2294

Total Fat 56.50g	72%
Saturated Fat 29.90g	150%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.10g
Cholesterol 336mg	112%
Sodium 1431mg	62%
Total Carbohydrate 369.80g	134%
Dietary Fiber 15.50g	55%
Total Sugars 135.70g
Protein 86.30g	173%

Vitamin D 109IU	546%
Calcium 524mg	40%
Iron 16mg	89%
Potassium 1546mg	33%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 21.8%

Protein: 14.8%

Carbs: 63.4%