There’s something special about Easter mornings that calls for slowing down. No rushing. No busy schedules. Just soft light, quiet moments, and something warm baking in the oven for the family.
These Matcha Hot Cross Buns were made for exactly that. Soft, fluffy, gently spiced buns with a subtle hint of earthy matcha and pockets of melted white chocolate. They’re comforting, slightly different, and perfect for a calm, family-centered Easter morning.
While they bake, the house fills with warmth and the gentle scent of spices. You can sip a creamy matcha latte or a calming cup of green tea, letting the morning unfold slowly as everyone wakes.
These are the kinds of recipes that become traditions. The ones that feel simple, grounding, and full of quiet joy.
Why You’ll Love These Matcha Hot Cross Buns
These buns are:
- Soft and fluffy
- Lightly spiced and comforting
- Gently infused with matcha
- Studded with sweet white chocolate
- Perfect for slow Easter mornings
- Family-friendly and cozy
The matcha adds a beautiful subtle flavour not overpowering, just a gentle earthy warmth that pairs beautifully with white chocolate. It’s a twist on tradition, while still keeping that familiar Easter comfort.
You can see the recipe here:
Matcha & White Chocolate Hot Cross Buns
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In the mixing bowl whisk together milk, a tablespoon of caster sugar and yeast. Set aside for 10 minutes or until frothy.
- Add the egg, butter, four cups of flour, cinnamon, matcha and the remaining sugar. Mix on low until combined, then increase to high for 5 minutes or until the dough is smooth.
- Add the chocolate drops and mix on low until well combined, then shape into a ball. Place in a large grease bowl, cover and set aside for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide into 12. Shape each portion into a ball and place on an oiled baking tray a few centimeters apart. Cover and set aside to proof for 1 hour or until doubled in size.Preheat your oven to 160°C bake.
- Make the flour crosses by combining the remaining flour with ¼ cup water to create a thick pipeable paste, adding more water if necessary. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag and pipe across your hot cross buns to make crosses. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
- Brush the tops with butter and serve!
Notes
- Remove the matcha and swap white chocolate drips for milk chocolate for a more traditional chocolatey treat.
- To make your hot cross buns glossy, glaze with melted apricot jam or a simple sugar syrup once they’ve come out of the oven.
- You don’t need a mixer to make the dough but it certainly makes it easier! Give yourself an extra 10-15 minutes
The Matcha I Use
For these Matcha Hot Cross Buns, I used the matcha powder I personally keep in my kitchen which is Green Velvet by Yahcha. I love it because it has a smooth, gentle flavour that isn’t too strong or bitter perfect for baking and slow morning drinks.
It blends beautifully into the dough and adds that subtle earthy warmth that makes these buns feel just a little bit special.
If you’d like to use the same matcha, you can find it here.
I also love using this matcha for:
Matcha lattes, Baking, Smoothies, Or a simple cup of warm matcha on slow mornings.
Not a Matcha Fan?
You can easily make a classic chocolate or chocolate chip version instead.
Simply:
- Leave out the matcha powder completely for chocolate chip or swap out for cocoa powder for double chocolate.
- Swap white chocolate buttons for milk chocolate drops or chocolate chips
You’ll still get soft, fluffy hot cross buns with pockets of melted chocolate perfect for those who prefer a more traditional flavour.
This makes the recipe flexible and family friendly, especially if you’re baking for different tastes.
The Heart of Easter
Easter is a beautiful reminder to slow down, be present, and gather with the people we love most. It’s a time for simple moments, good food shared around the table, and quiet gratitude for the life we’ve been given.
As we reflect on the meaning of Easter and the love of Jesus, these slow morning traditions become even more meaningful warm buns, calm conversations, and the gentle joy of being together.
If you try this recipe don’t forget to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok so I can see!
