Protein Hot Cross Buns with Chocolate Chips: A Delightful Easter Treat

Easter celebrations are synonymous with delicious treats, and this year, we're taking a classic favourite to new heights. I'm excited to share with you a recipe for Protein Hot Cross Buns with Chocolate Chips. This recipe combines the warmth of traditional hot cross buns with the sweet surprise of chocolate chips, all while packing a protein punch. Perfect for fitness enthusiasts and chocolate lovers alike, these buns are sure to become a new Easter tradition in your home. Let's get baking!

Ingredients:

• For the buns:

  • 300g whole wheat flour (for a boost of fibre)
  • 200g PranaOn's French Vanilla Power Plant Protein 
  • 1 packet (7g) instant yeast
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon mixed spice (or a homemade blend of nutmeg, cloves, and allspice)
  • 50g stevia (or your preferred low-calorie sweetener)
  • 300ml almond milk, lukewarm (or your milk of choice)
  • 1 large egg (or substitute with a flax egg for a vegan version)
  • 50g unsweetened applesauce (a great butter substitute)
  • 75g dried mixed fruit (e.g., raisins, sultanas, currants)
  • 75g dark chocolate chips 
  • Zest of 1 orange

• For the cross:

  • 50g protein powder
  • Water (add gradually until it forms a thick paste)

• For the glaze:

  • 2 tablespoons icing sugar (or sugar-free option if you prefer)
  • 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, protein powder, instant yeast, cinnamon, mixed spice, and stevia.
   • Slowly add the lukewarm almond milk and egg, mixing until the dough begins to form. Incorporate the unsweetened applesauce, dried mixed fruit, dark chocolate chips, and orange zest, then knead for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
   • Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Shape and Proof the Buns:

   • After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a bun shape and place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring there's space between each bun.
   • Cover again with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

3. Preheat Oven and Prepare Crosses:

   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
   • Combine the protein powder and water to make a thick paste for the crosses. Use a piping bag to pipe crosses over the buns.

4. Bake:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.

5. Glaze:

   • Heat the apricot jam and water in a small saucepan over low heat until melted. Brush this glaze over the warm buns as soon as they come out of the oven.

Macros (per bun, approximate):

• Calories: 230 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 5g
• Fat: 3g

These Protein Hot Cross Buns with Chocolate Chips are a perfect way to enjoy the Easter season without missing out on your protein intake. Warm, fluffy, and speckled with chocolate chips, they offer a modern twist on a traditional recipe. Serve them fresh from the oven for a treat that's sure to impress your family and friends. Happy Easter and happy baking!