It seems like everyone is always talking about cinnamon rolls, but what about the highly underrated hot cross bun? You may have a nostalgic love for the sweet pastry because you use to always enjoy them with family around the holiday season. If you had not had the pleasure of ever eating a hot cross bun, here’s what you’re missing; sweet and spiced buns are filled with raisins or currants and then are topped with an icing in the shape of a cross. Think of them as the slightly healthier, less sugary cousin of the cinnamon roll.

Fun fact: In Irish folklore, it is thought that those who share hot cross buns with others are fated to have strong friendships for the next year. So today, September 11th, which happens to be National Hot Cross Buns Day, bake a batch of hot cross buns to share! And who knows? You might end up making some new friends when the aroma of fresh-baked goods is coming from your kitchen. … It could happen.

If you need some inspiration, we searched through all of the recipes on the Food Monster App and found three creative, delicious takes on the classic pastry that we think you will love.

1. Hot Cross Buns 

These Hot Cross Buns are a vegan version of the classic pastry that is shockingly similar in taste, texture, and appearance! This recipe opts for raisins that are stirred generously throughout the batter. Apricot jam is brushed across the top of each bun to add a tangy and sweet flavor.

2. Raw Hot Cross Buns 

These delicious, easy, Raw Hot Cross Buns are made from mostly nuts and fruit! Almonds, oats, dates, and raisins along with spices make up each “bun.” The icing is simply blended cashews with lemon juice and a bit of coconut oil. If you are looking for a more wholesome treat that isn’t filled with refined sugars, then opt for this hot cross buns recipe.

3. Cocoa Chai Hot Cross Buns 

Cocoa Chai Hot Cross Buns are an excellent choice if you want to put a more creative spin on the relatively simple traditional pastry! Cocoa powder and ground chai tea leaves are mixed into the batter to give it a richer, spiced flavor. The refined-sugar free icing can be quickly whipped up with just three ingredients: apple sauce, stevia, and agave.

For more sweet treats, check out our vegan dessert bread recipes page.

For even more plant-based recipes and cooking how-to’s, we highly recommend checking out Food Monster app, a Food app available for both Android and iPhone. The app has over 8,000+ vegan recipes with 10+ recipes added daily Give it a try — and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram (and share your photos using #FoodMonsterApp if you make any of the recipes)!

Lead image source: Hot Cross Buns