Sourdough Hot Cross Buns Recipe
This Easter, elevate your celebrations with our nutrient-rich recipe for Sourdough Hot Cross Buns.
By elenzia / March 26th 2024 / Recipes
As Easter approaches, the season ushers in a plethora of indulgent treats, but who says you can’t enjoy the festivities while nourishing your body at the same time? At elénzia, we believe in celebrating traditions without compromising on health. This Easter, we’re excited to share a recipe that combines the time-honoured tradition of hot cross buns with the nutritional benefits of sourdough and wholesome ingredients.
Why Sourdough?
Sourdough isn’t just a delicious bread; it’s a nutritional powerhouse backed by science. The fermentation process involved in making sourdough not only enhances its flavour but also brings about numerous health benefits. During fermentation, beneficial bacteria and yeast work their magic, breaking down gluten and phytic acid, making nutrients more bioavailable and easier to digest. This means that even individuals with gluten sensitivities may find sourdough more tolerable than conventional bread.
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients
🌾 Whole Wheat Flour: Rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, whole wheat flour supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and provides sustained energy throughout the day.
🐝 Natural Sweeteners: We’ve opted for honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugars. These natural sweeteners not only add sweetness but also offer antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that refined sugars lack.
🧈 Healthy Fats: Coconut oil or butter provides essential fatty acids necessary for brain function, hormone production, and nutrient absorption.
🧂 Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice not only enhance the flavour profile of the buns but also boast antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting overall health and well-being.
🥜 Fruits & Nuts: Raisins, currants, orange zest, and nuts contribute vitamins, minerals, and fibre, promoting heart health, immune function, and satiety.
🍫 Dark Chocolate (optional): Dark chocolate, if added, brings its own set of benefits, including flavonoids that support heart health, cognitive function, and mood regulation.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
• 1 cup active sourdough starter
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 2 cups bread flour
• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
• ¼ cup warm milk (or non-dairy milk)
• ¼ cup melted coconut oil or butter
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon allspice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup raisins or currants
• Zest of 1 orange
• ¼ cup chopped almonds or walnuts (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped dark chocolate (optional)
For the Cross:
• ¼ cup whole wheat flour
• 3-4 tablespoons water
For the Glaze:
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon hot water
Instructions
Activate the Sourdough Starter
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter with the whole wheat flour and 1 cup of bread flour. Mix well and let it sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours until bubbly and active.
Prepare the Dough
2. To the activated sourdough starter, add honey or maple syrup, warm milk, melted coconut oil or butter, egg, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the remaining bread flour until a dough forms.
4. Fold in the raisins or currants, orange zest, chopped nuts, and dark chocolate (if using).
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
First Rise
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature for about 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size. Alternatively, you can let it rise in the refrigerator overnight for a slower fermentation process.
7. After the first rise, punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round bun and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each bun.
Second Rise
8. Cover the shaped buns with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for another 2-4 hours at room temperature, or until they have doubled in size.
9. About 30 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Cross Mixture
10. In a small bowl, mix the whole wheat flour and water to form a thick paste. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag or a small plastic bag with a corner snipped off.
11. Pipe the flour mixture onto the risen buns to form crosses.
Bake
12. Place the buns in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
13. While the buns are still warm, mix honey or maple syrup with hot water to create a glaze. Brush the glaze over the hot cross buns for a shiny finish.
Cool and Serve
14. Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.
This Easter, let’s embrace the spirit of celebration while prioritizing our health and wellbeing. With our science-led approach to nutrition and this wholesome sourdough hot cross buns recipe, you can indulge guilt-free, knowing that you’re nourishing your body with every bite. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let’s bake our way to a healthier, happier Easter!
Why not try this alongside our much-loved supplements? Snap a pic and tag us on Instagram @elenzia.life if you decide to try this out!
Disclaimer: While our recipe is designed with health in mind, individual nutritional needs may vary. Please consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions.
