This cake is probably only eaten in English-speaking countries (like England, Australia...), not here in Italy, folks. In Italy, we eat a cake called Colomba—oh my, it's just as delicious as panettone, absolutely on par, sob sob!! And it’s often made even richer with fillings like chocolate, cream, vanilla, or truffle. Every time you eat it, it’s like eating a whole kilo, not just a slice!
I got this recipe from Italy’s Giallozafferano website. That site has shared over a hundred recipes, and I’ve had success with 99 of them. The only one that didn’t turn out was the “chocolate salame” from my region. I have no idea why!???!!!

Hot cross buns are sweet, spiced buns traditionally enjoyed during the Easter season. Made with soft, enriched dough, they’re delicately flavored with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and often studded with raisins or currants for bursts of sweetness. The most iconic feature is the white cross piped on top, symbolizing the holiday’s religious roots. As they bake, the buns turn golden brown and develop a slightly glossy finish, often from a sugar glaze brushed on while still warm. Soft and fluffy inside, they’re comforting to eat and pair well with butter, jam, or even a slice of cheese. Hot cross buns are not only delicious but also carry a sense of tradition and festivity. Whether served for breakfast, tea, or as part of a holiday meal, they bring a gentle sweetness and warm spice that evoke the coziness of springtime celebrations. 

Did you know:
1. Cinnamon powder: Cinnamon powder is a warm, aromatic spice derived from the inner bark of cinnamon trees. It adds a sweet, woody flavor and a subtle spiciness to baked goods and desserts. Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that may support heart health and blood sugar regulation. It enhances the flavor profile of sweet doughs and pairs well with citrus and dried fruits. Its distinctive scent and taste bring depth and warmth to recipes, making it a popular spice in both sweet and savory dishes. Cinnamon powder is versatile and easy to incorporate in many culinary applications.

2. Grated orange zest: Grated orange zest is the finely shaved outer peel of an orange, which contains fragrant essential oils that provide a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor. It adds fresh, tangy notes to baked goods, balancing sweetness and enriching the overall taste. Orange zest is a natural source of antioxidants and vitamin C. Using zest rather than juice gives a concentrated flavor without added moisture, which helps maintain the dough’s texture. It complements spices like cinnamon and ingredients like raisins and almond essence, adding complexity and freshness to sweet recipes.

3. Raisins: Raisins are dried grapes known for their natural sweetness, chewy texture, and rich flavor. They provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals such as potassium and iron. Raisins add moisture and bursts of concentrated sweetness to doughs and baked goods. Their natural sugars caramelize during baking, enhancing the flavor and color of the final product. Raisins complement spices like cinnamon and citrus zest well, adding both texture and nutrition. They are a popular ingredient in traditional sweet breads and pastries, lending a pleasant chewiness and natural fruity notes.

4. Chocolate chips: Chocolate chips for cooking are small chunks of chocolate designed to hold their shape during baking. They add rich, sweet, and slightly bitter cocoa flavor to recipes. Chocolate chips provide texture contrast with a creamy melt-in-the-mouth experience when warm. They contain antioxidants and minerals like magnesium, which have health benefits in moderation. Used in doughs and baked goods, chocolate chips contribute indulgence and depth, balancing other flavors such as orange zest and cinnamon. Their inclusion elevates the overall taste, making treats more appealing and flavorful.

5. Almond essence: Almond essence is a concentrated flavoring extracted from almonds or synthesized to mimic their taste. It adds a sweet, nutty aroma and enhances the flavor profile of baked goods without altering texture. Almond essence intensifies the natural nuttiness in recipes and pairs well with citrus, spices, and chocolate. It is commonly used in small quantities to enrich doughs, cakes, and pastries, giving them a distinct almond note. Though low in nutritional value, almond essence greatly impacts the sensory appeal and complexity of sweet baked items.

Weightwatchers (Opt for losing weight):
To optimize Hot Cross Buns for Weight Watchers, reduce the sugar and butter amounts to lower calories and fat while keeping sweetness balanced. Replace part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fiber and improve satiety. Use fewer chocolate chips or swap them with dark chocolate chips that have higher cacao content and less sugar. Soak the raisins in fresh orange juice to add natural sweetness without extra sugar. For the cross, keep the simple flour-water mixture but limit added essences to avoid unnecessary calories. This keeps the buns flavorful yet lighter for healthier indulgence. 

 → Mix everything together and put into a piping bag.