Surprise Chocolate Hazelnut Hot Cross Buns

This article explores the art of creating elevated hot cross buns by combining the classic spiced dough with the luxurious indulgence of chocolate and hazelnut. It delves into several recipes that incorporate surprising and delightful fillings, transforming a traditional Easter treat into a truly memorable culinary experience. The focus is on providing detailed instructions, practical tips, and variations, empowering bakers of all levels to achieve exceptional results. The text highlights the benefits of experimenting with flavor profiles and textures, emphasizing the joy of creating unique and personalized baked goods.

Recipe 1: Chocolate Hazelnut Hot Cross Buns with Salted Caramel Swirl

Ingredients for the Dough:

500g strong bread flour, 7g fast-action yeast, 75g caster sugar, 5g salt, 2 large eggs, 250ml lukewarm milk, 100g unsalted butter, softened.

Ingredients for the Filling:

150g good quality dark chocolate, chopped, 100g hazelnut praline paste, 100g salted caramel sauce.

Ingredients for the Cross:

100g plain flour, 50ml water.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and yeast; let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Combine dry ingredients: Add the flour, sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until just combined.
3. Add wet ingredients: Gradually incorporate the eggs and softened butter, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Prepare the filling: Gently melt the chocolate. Stir in the hazelnut praline paste until fully combined. Set aside to cool slightly.
6. Shape the buns: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
7. Incorporate the filling: Flatten each ball slightly. Add a spoonful of the chocolate hazelnut mixture and a swirl of salted caramel to the center. Gently fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
8. Second Rise: Place the shaped buns on a baking tray lined with baking paper. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
9. Make the crosses: Combine the flour and water to form a smooth paste. Transfer to a piping bag or zip-lock bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe crosses onto the risen buns.
10. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. Cool: Let the buns cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Tips for Success:

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Ensure the yeast is fresh and active. Don’t overmix the dough. Allow sufficient time for the dough to rise properly. Adjust baking time depending on your oven.

Recipe 2: Chocolate Hazelnut Hot Cross Buns with White Chocolate Crunch

Ingredients:

(Similar dough recipe as above) Filling: 150g dark chocolate, chopped, 100g hazelnut praline paste, 50g white chocolate, roughly chopped. Cross: Same as above.

Read Also: Hearty Veggie Frying Pan Pie Recipes » All Recipes

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Follow steps 1-7 from Recipe 1. In step 7, add the chopped white chocolate to the chocolate hazelnut mixture. Continue with steps 8-11.

Tips for Success:

For a crispier white chocolate, toast the chopped pieces lightly before adding them to the filling. Ensure the white chocolate is evenly distributed throughout the filling.

Recipe 3: Chocolate Hazelnut Hot Cross Buns with Raspberry Jam Swirl

Ingredients:

(Similar dough recipe as above) Filling: 150g dark chocolate, chopped, 100g hazelnut praline paste, 100g raspberry jam. Cross: Same as above.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Follow steps 1-6 from Recipe 1. In step 7, add a spoonful of the chocolate hazelnut mixture and a swirl of raspberry jam to the center of each bun. Continue with steps 8-11.

Tips for Success:

Use a good quality raspberry jam with visible pieces of fruit. Avoid using a jam that is too runny, as it may leak out during baking. Let the buns cool completely before serving to prevent the jam from being too soft.

Recipe 4: Chocolate Hazelnut Hot Cross Buns with a Hidden Hazelnut Surprise

Ingredients:

(Similar dough recipe as above) Filling: 150g dark chocolate, chopped, 50g whole hazelnuts, roughly chopped. Cross: Same as above.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough as per the instructions above.
2. Melt the chocolate and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Shape the buns as instructed.
4. Create a small indentation in the center of each bun.
5. Place a few chopped hazelnuts into each indentation.
6. Fold the dough over the hazelnuts, sealing the edges.
7. Continue with steps 8-11 from Recipe 1.

Tips for Success:

Roast the hazelnuts before chopping them for a richer flavor. Make sure the hazelnuts are evenly distributed. Handle the dough gently to avoid crushing the hazelnuts.

Recipe 5: Mini Chocolate Hazelnut Hot Cross Buns with a Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients:

(Similar dough recipe as above, but reduce quantities proportionally) Filling: 100g dark chocolate, chopped, 50g hazelnut praline paste. Frosting: 100g cream cheese, softened, 50g icing sugar, 20g melted dark chocolate.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Follow steps 1-7 from Recipe 1, adjusting quantities as needed for smaller buns. Once the buns are cooled, prepare the frosting by combining the cream cheese, icing sugar, and melted chocolate. Frost the mini buns generously.

Tips for Success:

Use a piping bag to frost the mini buns for a neat finish. Chill the buns slightly before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting too quickly. Use a smooth cream cheese for a better consistency.

Conclusion

The versatility of the classic hot cross bun is evident in these diverse recipes. By incorporating the rich combination of chocolate and hazelnut and adding unexpected fillings, the simple hot cross bun is transformed into a sophisticated and delightful treat. Experimentation with different fillings and flavor combinations allows for personalized creations, making these recipes ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. The techniques detailed above offer a solid foundation for mastering this beloved Easter tradition and creating unique and memorable baked goods.

Encourage Questions

Feel free to ask any questions you may have regarding these recipes or any other aspects of baking hot cross buns. Further inquiries about ingredient substitutions, baking techniques, or storage methods are welcome. Detailed explanations and assistance are provided to enhance your baking experience.

Experiment with different types of chocolate. Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm and comforting aroma. Try using different nuts besides hazelnuts. Explore alternative fillings such as dried fruits, nuts, or even a sweet cheese filling. Adjust baking times based on your oven. Don’t hesitate to adapt the recipes to your personal preferences.