This fun twist on traditional hot cross buns combines tasty chocolate with crunchy Weetbix. It’s a yummy breakfast that you can prepare the night before!
I love waking up to this chocolatey treat that’s as easy as it is delicious. Just mix, soak, and let it chill overnight for a delightful start to the day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Weetbix: This cereal is key for the base. If you can’t find Weetbix, you can use any plain, unsweetened whole grain biscuit or oat cereal as a substitute, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa offers a rich chocolate taste. If you’re looking for a lighter flavor, cacao powder is another option. More adventurous? Use dark chocolate powder for a deeper flavor.
Dried Mixed Fruit: If you don’t have mixed fruit, raisins, sultanas, or even chopped dried apricots work just as well. You can also skip it entirely for a pure chocolate experience!
Dark Chocolate: Chocolate chips or chopped chocolate are both fine! If you prefer, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter taste, though it will change the flavor profile.
How Do I Get the Perfect Glaze and Cross?
Creating a beautiful glaze and cross is essential for presentation! Here’s how:
- When melting chocolate, do it slowly in the microwave or a double boiler to prevent burning.
- For the cross, mix flour with water in a 1:3 ratio until smooth. Adjust water for the right pipeable consistency.
- Using a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a snipped corner makes it easy to create that classic design.
Don’t rush! Take your time to ensure the glaze sets well and the cross looks great. Enjoy this fun take on a breakfast favorite! It’s a hit at our brunch gatherings!
Chocolate Hot Cross Bun Overnight Weetbix
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 4 Weetbix biscuits, crushed
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp mixed spice (or a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg)
- 1/2 cup milk (or adjust as needed)
- 1/3 cup dried mixed fruit (like raisins or currants)
- 2 tbsp chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate, melted
For the Hot Cross Bun Cross:
- 1/4 cup plain flour
- 3 tbsp water (adjust as needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus time to chill overnight in the fridge (at least 6-8 hours). It’s perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Weetbix, cocoa powder, brown sugar, mixed spice, dried fruit, and chopped dark chocolate. Mix well so everything is evenly distributed.
2. Adding the Milk:
Gradually stir in the milk, adjusting the amount as needed until the mixture becomes a thick pudding consistency. Make sure all the dry ingredients are well moistened.
3. Preparing for Chilling:
Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased dish or individual ramekins. Press it down slightly to pack it well. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld and for the Weetbix to soften.
4. Melting the Chocolate for the Glaze:
The next day, melt the dark chocolate in a microwave in short bursts or over a double boiler until it’s smooth and glossy. This will become your delicious glaze!
5. Making the Cross Icing:
In a small bowl, mix the plain flour and water until it forms a smooth, thick paste. You want it to be pipeable, so adjust with more water if needed. Transfer this mixture into a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off.
6. Assembling the Dish:
Spread the melted dark chocolate over the top of the chilled Weetbix mixture for a rich glaze. Then, pipe the white flour paste in criss-cross lines on top, similar to the traditional hot cross bun design.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your Chocolate Hot Cross Bun Overnight Weetbix right away, or chill it for a bit longer. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat anytime!
Delight in this simple yet delectable dish that brings a delightful twist to classic hot cross buns!
Can I Use a Different Cereal Instead of Weetbix?
Yes! If you can’t find Weetbix, any plain, whole-grain biscuit or oat cereal can serve as a substitute. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to maintain the right flavor.
How Can I Make It Dairy-Free?
To make this dish dairy-free, simply substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk, such as almond, soy, or oat milk. The texture should still be great!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in One Day?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in the morning and let it sit for a few hours before serving, though the overnight chilling enhances the flavors and texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed cold or warmed up in the microwave for a cozy treat!
