The First Day of Spring is here, and what better way to celebrate than with a warm, cheesy twist on a seasonal favorite? These Cheesy Hot Cross Buns are the ultimate savory bake—soft, golden buns filled with gooey, melty cheese and brushed with buttery goodness for that perfect finish. Whether you're baking for a cozy spring brunch, prepping for your Easter Sunday menu, or simply craving something comforting and delicious, this recipe is a must-try.
Created by food creator Franchesca of @breakthrukitchen , this recipe brings together the flavors of spring with a savory upgrade that’s impossible to resist. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing Easter baking idea that will leave your guests reaching for seconds.
Franchesca baked these cheesy buns using her go-to Bakeware Set from Larder & Vine—designed for even heating, easy cleanup, and a beautiful presentation straight from oven to table. The bakeware’s nonstick ceramic coating ensures every bun bakes up golden and releases effortlessly, making it ideal for all your spring baking recipes.
If you’re looking to switch up your Easter traditions or add a new favorite to your seasonal baking list, this Cheesy Hot Cross Buns recipe is the perfect place to start. Pair it with a fresh salad or serve alongside your holiday ham—it’s versatile, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress.
Ready to bake? Keep reading for Franchesca’s full cheesy hot cross buns recipe, and don’t forget to explore more of her springtime creations on her blog or follow along on Instagram for step-by-step inspiration.
Why use our Larder & Vine Ceramic Cake Pan?
When you decide to bake with our ceramic cake pan, it comes equipped with a total of 8 pieces of ceramic bakeware that not only match, but they easily stack into one piece for easy, compact storage:
2 baking sheets
2 muffin tins
1 round pan
1 square pan
1 loaf pan
1 deep roasting pan.
Healthy baking is number 1 on our priority list here at Larder & Vine so you can have peace of mind when baking your delicious recipes knowing this Bakeware Set is free of all heavy metals, PFAS, PFOA, & PTFE.
Recipe Summary
1 hour 25 minutes
25 minutes
12
Appetizer
Recipe Ingredients
3½ cups bread flour
1½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1½ teaspoon instant yeast
1½ cup grated cheddar cheese
1 egg
⅔ cup warm milk + 2 tablespoons
2 tablespoons melted butter
¼ cup all purpose flour
¼ cup water
Extra butter for brushing
Recipe Directions
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, yeast, salt, and herbs using a whisk until well mixed.
2. Add the egg, warm milk, and butter to the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to thoroughly combine the mixture until it forms a dough.
3. Once the dough is formed, knead it for 5-8 minutes or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 9 equal portions using a slicer or knife.
5. Take each portion of dough and flatten it slightly. Place a portion of cheese in the center and seal the dough around it, forming it into a ball shape.
6. Arrange the filled dough balls onto a baking pan, leaving some space between each one.
7. Cover the dough balls with a clean towel and place them in a warm area to rise for about 1 hour or until they double in size.
8. Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC).
9. In a small bowl, combine all purpose flour with water to make a thick paste.
10. Using a spoon or piping bag, create a cross shape on top of each risen bun with the flour water paste.
11. Place the baking pan with the buns into the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
12. Once baked, remove the buns from the oven and brush the tops with melted butter for added flavor and shine.
13. Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving the recipe.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesy hot cross buns are best served warm and fresh from the oven. They pair beautifully with a hearty soup or stew, making for a cozy, comforting meal. Whether you’re serving them at Easter brunch or a holiday gathering, they add a satisfying savory touch that complements a wide range of flavors.
For a lighter option, enjoy these buns with a simple spread of butter, garlic herb dip, or even a drizzle of olive oil. Their cheesy flavor is a perfect fit for brunch spreads or festive gatherings, adding a flavorful twist to the traditional hot cross bun that guests will love.
