How To Freeze Hot Cross Buns

Easter is a time for family, friends, and of course, hot cross buns! But sometimes, we want this tasty Easter treat more than once a year.

There are plenty of ways to use up your leftover hot cross buns and save money at the same time, but how do you bring the taste of Easter without having to whip out the baking apron?

Here are six easy steps for freezing hot cross buns for later use:

Step 1. Cut in half.

Slice your hot cross buns in half before freezing. This will reduce the thawing time or enable you to instantly toast them from frozen.

Step 2. Wrap it up.

Wrap each cross bun individually in cling film or aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn.

Step 3. Storage.

Transfer the wrapped buns in an airtight container or freezer bag. Label with the date and content to keep track of the freezing time frame.

Step 4. Freeze.

You can store your hot cross buns in the freezer for up to 6 months, but for best results freeze for up to 3 months.

Step 5. Defrost.

Defrost at room temperature for 2-3 hours or in a microwave by placing 1 unwrapped hot cross bun for 45 to 50 seconds or until soft using the defrost setting. Alternatively, you can use the defrost setting on your toaster.

Step 6. Let’s get toasting!

Hot cross buns can be warmed up using a toaster or in an oven preheated to 160 °C/fan for about 5 minutes or to 180°C/fan for toasty hot cross buns!

Why freeze your hot cross buns?

Not only can freezing your leftover hot cross buns help reduce food waste, but it can also save you money!

According to Love Food and Hate Waste, 36 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions (the equivalent of 3,000 double-decker buses) could be prevented by saving!

So why not put that money towards something else this Easter?

By using up your leftovers instead of throwing them away or cashing in on a bargain you find on the Gander app, you can enjoy delicious hot cross buns while saving some cash too!