If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s at once delightfully familiar and delightfully surprising, look no further than Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu. This British-Italian fusion brings together the spiced, fruity coziness of hot cross buns and layers them in a creamy, coffee-kissed mascarpone dream. Imagine all the traditional tiramisu flavors you adore, but multiplied by the nostalgia and fun of everyone’s favorite Easter bun. It’s the ultimate treat for using up leftovers, and after one spoonful, I guarantee it’ll become a staple in your dessert rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of simple, everyday ingredients unite to create such a stand-out dessert. Every component in this Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu plays an important role—some add spice, some bring that unmistakable silky richness, and others provide bursts of flavor that pull everything together beautifully.
- Hot Cross Buns (4, split and lightly toasted): Their spices and fruits make the tiramisu base sing—with a chewy toast for extra structure and flavor.
- Strong Brewed Coffee (1 cup, cooled): Deep coffee flavor gives the buns a classic tiramisu soak and infuses them with warmth.
- Coffee Liqueur (2 tablespoons, optional): Adds adult flair and a gentle richness; skip for a family-friendly dessert.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): Whipped into soft peaks, it helps create that luxuriously smooth mascarpone layer.
- Mascarpone Cheese (8 oz, softened): The heart and soul of the cream filling—sweet, tangy, and impossibly creamy.
- Powdered Sugar (1/3 cup): Just enough sweetness to balance the robust coffee flavors.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the aromas and ties together the cream and bun spices.
- Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Echoes the warmth already present in the buns for total harmony.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Lends a subtle, cozy nutty note and deepens the spice profile.
- Cocoa Powder (for dusting): The classic tiramisu finish, a bittersweet contrast you’ll love.
- Chocolate Shavings (optional, for garnish): Because everything’s better with a little chocolate on top.
How to Make Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu
Step 1: Whip the Cream
Grab a mixing bowl and whip your heavy cream until you see those lovely soft peaks forming. This step is key—it lightens the mascarpone mixture and gives your Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu its signature fluffy texture. Keep an eye out for soft, billowy folds that hold their shape without becoming stiff.
Step 2: Mix the Mascarpone Base
In a separate bowl, combine the softened mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until everything is silky and homogenous, then gently fold in your just-whipped cream. The goal is a mixture that’s luscious and airy—don’t overmix or you’ll lose that dreamy cloudlike quality!
Step 3: Prepare the Coffee Soak
Pour your cooled coffee into a shallow bowl and, if you’re up for it, stir in the coffee liqueur for an extra grown-up kick. The cooled temperature is vital so the buns absorb the liquid without falling apart.
Step 4: Dip and Layer the Hot Cross Buns
Take each toasted hot cross bun half and quickly dip it into the coffee mixture. Don’t let them linger—the idea is a gentle soak, not a soggy meltdown! Arrange half of them in the bottom of your chosen serving dish, overlapping slightly to cover the base.
Step 5: Add Creamy Layers
Spoon half the mascarpone mixture over the soaked buns and spread gently to create a thick, even layer. Repeat with the remaining coffee-dipped buns and the rest of the creamy mascarpone mixture, finishing with a final smooth swoosh on top.
Step 6: Chill and Finish
Cover your Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu tightly with plastic wrap and let it chill out in the fridge for at least 4 hours—or even better, overnight. This makes the flavors meld beautifully. Just before serving, dust generously with cocoa powder and scatter over a flourish of chocolate shavings if you’re feeling fancy.
How to Serve Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu
Garnishes
For the perfect finishing touch, dust the chilled tiramisu with unsweetened cocoa powder using a sieve or small sifter. If you’re aiming to impress (and let’s be honest, why not?), scatter some dark chocolate shavings or curls on top—these not only look irresistible but add a snap of texture and extra chocolatey depth.
Side Dishes
Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu is rich, so serve it alongside a pot of freshly brewed coffee or robust black tea for balance. If you want a refreshing contrast, try a tiny dollop of tangy crème fraîche or a scattering of citrus fruit slices—both effortlessly cut through the creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the classic trifle dish! Individual mason jars, espresso cups, or even small jam jars make for ultra-adorable, perfectly portioned Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu servings, and they’re ideal for picnics or parties. You can also try a layered dessert bar where everyone assembles their own mini masterpiece—it’s interactive, creative, and so much fun for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu in an airtight container and stash it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days—the flavors only deepen and meld the longer they sit, so don’t hesitate to sneak an extra spoonful on day two! Just be sure to cover the top tightly so it doesn’t absorb any fridge odors.
Freezing
While tiramisu generally fares best fresh, you can freeze your Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu if needed. Wrap the dish tightly with a double layer of plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving—keep in mind the texture may be slightly softer after freezing, but the flavors will still shine.
Reheating
This dessert’s magic lies in its chilled, creamy layers, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply serve it cold straight from the fridge! If your tiramisu has been frozen, allow it to thaw gradually in the refrigerator until it’s soft enough to serve.
FAQs
Can I make Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu alcohol-free?
Absolutely! Just leave out the coffee liqueur and your dessert will still be rich, creamy, and fragrant without losing any personality. This makes it perfect for family gatherings with kids or anyone avoiding alcohol.
What kind of hot cross buns work best?
Traditional fruity buns with plenty of spice are perfect for this recipe, but you can get creative with chocolate chip, extra-spiced, or even gluten-free hot cross buns. Just make sure they’re sturdy enough to hold up after toasting and dipping.
Can I make Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu in advance?
Yes, and you should! Preparing your tiramisu the night before gives it time to chill and allows the flavors to mingle for a truly unforgettable treat. It’s a prime candidate for stress-free entertaining.
What if I don’t have mascarpone cheese?
If mascarpone is tricky to find, you can use full-fat cream cheese or a mix of cream cheese and a splash of heavy cream. The flavor and texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Can I add other spices or fruits?
Definitely! For a customized twist on Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu, try folding in orange zest, chopped dried apricots, or even a little ground cardamom to enhance the spice profile. It’s a recipe that welcomes experimentation.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu a try—whether you’re looking to use up Easter leftovers or simply want a show-stopping new dessert to wow your friends. Every spoonful promises cozy spice, creamy clouds, and that familiar tiramisu coffee kick. Trust me, it’ll become a new favorite in no time!
Print
Hot Cross Bun Tiramisu Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: British-Italian Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of British hot cross buns and Italian tiramisu with this easy-to-make, no-bake dessert. Layers of coffee-soaked buns and creamy mascarpone create a decadent treat perfect for Easter or any time of year.
Ingredients
Hot Cross Buns:
- 4 hot cross buns, split and lightly toasted
Coffee Mixture:
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
- 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
Mascarpone Cream:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese (softened)
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Finishing Touches:
- Cocoa powder for dusting
- Chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Prepare Mascarpone Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Fold in the whipped cream until smooth.
- Soak Hot Cross Buns: Dip toasted buns in a mixture of coffee and coffee liqueur.
- Layer the Dessert: Arrange soaked buns in a dish, alternate with mascarpone mixture. Repeat layers and chill for at least 4 hours.
- Final Touches: Dust with cocoa powder and add chocolate shavings before serving.
Notes
- This recipe is a great way to use leftover hot cross buns.
- You can make it alcohol-free by skipping the coffee liqueur.
- For extra spice, use spiced or fruit-studded hot cross buns.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
