This Hot Cross Bun Chocolate Cheesecake recipe blends together hot cross buns and chocolate cheesecake into one yummy dessert! If you’re looking for a unique and indulgent dessert for Easter or any special occasion, this is it! The warm spices from hot cross buns pair beautifully with the creamy richness of chocolate cheesecake, making it an absolute family favourite!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients Needed
- Kitchen Equipment Required
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Expert Tips for the Best Cheesecake
- Variations and Substitutions
- How to Store Leftovers
- Best Food and Drink Pairings
- How Kids Can Help Decorate
The History of Hot Cross Buns
Hot cross buns have been an Easter tradition for centuries. The spiced, sweet buns, marked with a symbolic cross on top, date back to the 12th century. Some say they were first made by a monk who marked them with a cross to honor Good Friday. Due to this, hot cross buns are often associated with Easter and religious customs. However over time, they have become a popular treat in England & Ireland.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Easter – This recipe combines the flavours of hot cross buns, which are popular at Easter, and chocolate cheesecake into one delicious and indulgent dessert.
- Rich and Creamy – This dessert has a silky-smooth cheesecake texture with a delicious crunch from the base.
- Easy to Make Ahead – This recipe is great for preparing in advance. This is perfect if you are hosting an Easter dinner for family and friends and need a dessert you can make ahead of time!
- Customizable & Great For Kids – This recipe is easily adapted and is a great way for kids to get involved with the decorating! You could add some chocolate bunnies, mini eggs or let your kids go wild with some fun icing Easter shapes!
Ingredients Needed For This Hot Cross Bun Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
For the Base
- 250g hot cross buns, processed into crumbs
- 100g melted butter
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
The Filling
- 500g cream cheese, softened
- 200g dark chocolate, melted
- 100g milk chocolate, melted
- 200g sour cream
- 150g caster sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
Making The Topping
- 100ml heavy cream
- 50g dark chocolate, melted
- Mini chocolate eggs or shaved chocolate for decoration
Kitchen Equipment Required
- 9-inch springform pan
- Food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Spatula
- Baking tray
- Saucepan
Step-by-Step Instructions For This Hot Cross Bun Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
1. Preparing the Base
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F). This ensures even baking and a stable base.
- Place the hot cross buns into a food processor and pulse until you get fine crumbs. You want a texture similar to biscuit crumbs—small, but not too powdery.
- Add the melted butter and brown sugar to the crumbs. Stir well until all the crumbs are moistened and can hold their shape when pressed together.
- Press the mixture firmly into the base of a lined springform pan using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass. Ensure an even layer with no gaps.
- Bake for 10 minutes. The base will become slightly firm and golden but will fully set once cooled. Let it rest at room temperature while preparing the filling.
2. Making the Cheesecake Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The batter should be thick, smooth, and lump-free.
- Melt both the dark and milk chocolate and allow them to cool slightly before adding to the mixture. Stir in the melted chocolate until fully blended.
- Gently fold in the sour cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
3. Baking the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled base, using a spatula to smooth out the top.
- Place the springform pan inside a larger baking dish and fill the dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan. This water bath prevents cracks and keeps the cheesecake ultra-creamy.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes. The edges should be firm, while the center should have a slight jiggle—this is normal and will set as it cools.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour. This slow cooling process prevents cracks.
4. Cooling and Chilling Hot Cross Bun Chocolate Cheesecake
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for another hour.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results. The flavors will develop, and the texture will firm up beautifully.
5. Adding Toppings
- Whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the top in a decorative pattern.
- Decorate with mini chocolate eggs or shaved chocolate for a festive touch.
Expert Tips for the Best Hot Cross Bun Chocolate Cheesecake
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
- A water bath prevents cracks in the cheesecake.
- Refrigerate overnight for the best texture and flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
- Different Chocolates – Try white chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter version.
- Spiced Base – Add extra cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance warm flavors.
- Dairy-Free – Swap cream cheese and sour cream for dairy-free alternatives.
How to Store Leftovers
- Once fully cooled. You can store this cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
- Once it has fully cooled. You can freeze individual slices for up to 3 months (wrap tightly in plastic wrap).
- Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Best Food and Drink Pairings
- Drink Pairings: A glass of dessert wine, baileys, glass of milk, hot cocoa, or a spiced chai latte will complement this dessert!
- Food Pairings: Serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How Kids Can Help Decorate A Hot Cross Bun Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe
Getting your kids involved in decorating this Easter cheesecake can make it even more fun and festive! Here are some easy Easter-themed ideas:
- Sprinkle Fun: Let kids add colorful sprinkles or edible glitter for extra flair.
- Mini Chocolate Eggs: Arrange them in patterns or create a nest in the center.
- Piped Crosses: Use melted white chocolate or icing to pipe mini hot cross bun designs on top.
- Bunny Toppers: Add small chocolate bunny figurines for a cute Easter touch.
- Fruit Garnishes: Fresh berries or candy-coated chocolate make a bright, tasty addition.
This Hot Cross Bun Chocolate Cheesecake is a fun and creative twist on two classic desserts, making it perfect for Easter or any celebration! If you love rich, creamy, and indulgent treats, this recipe is for you!
