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+ servings
Serine Milo

Chocolate Brioche Hot Cross Buns

A delightful twist on a classic, these Chocolate Brioche Hot Cross Buns blend traditional Easter spices with rich melty chocolate, creating a soft, fluffy treat perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12 buns
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Brioche Dough
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Filling
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chunks) Can substitute with white chocolate or dried fruits.
  • 1 Zest of 1 orange Optional for a citrus twist.
For the Spices
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
For the Cross
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • Water To make a thick paste.
For the Glaze
  • 1/4 cup apricot or orange marmalade, warmed

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl and mix well.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, warm milk, softened butter, and vanilla extract until combined.
  3. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Filling and Shaping
  1. Once risen, punch down the dough and incorporate the spices and chocolate chips, folding until evenly distributed.
  2. Divide the dough into approximately 12 equal portions and shape each into a bun.
  3. Place the buns on a lined baking tray, close together but not touching, and let them rise again for about 30-40 minutes.
  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare the cross mixture by combining flour with enough water to make a thick paste.
  5. Once risen, pipe the cross design on top of the buns.
Baking
  1. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  2. Allow to cool slightly before brushing with the warm glaze.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8g

Notes

For a vegan option, swap the milk with almond or soy milk and adjust the butter for coconut oil. You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the fridge. Leftovers can be toasted lightly the next day for a delightful treat.

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