If you’re dreaming of a dessert that captures the cozy spirit of Easter but skips turning on the oven, look no further than this No-Bake Hot Cross Bun Slice. It’s everything you love about the classic spiced bun, but transformed into lush, chewy squares swirled with white chocolate, cinnamon warmth, and plump raisins! Every bite delivers sweet nostalgia, comforting spice, and a creamy finish, all topped off with that iconic cross—minus the fuss of traditional baking. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for your holiday table or any time you have leftover hot cross buns.

No-Bake Hot Cross Bun Slice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of simple ingredients can create pure dessert magic! Each element in this No-Bake Hot Cross Bun Slice adds its own special charm—from texture and color to that irresistible sweet-spiced flavor. Here’s what you’ll be layering together:

Hot cross buns: For the very best flavor, use a mix of classic or fruit-studded buns, chopped into bite-sized cubes for that traditional hot cross bun taste in every piece.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter brings richness and helps bind everything into a luscious, sliceable base.
Sweetened condensed milk: This is the magic that makes the slice creamy, chewy, and perfectly sweet—no added sugar required!
White chocolate chips: They melt into the base to create a silky, luxurious texture and a hint of vanilla flavor.
Vanilla extract: Just a splash elevates the flavors and brings everything together.
Ground cinnamon: No hot cross bun is complete without that warming hint of spice!
Ground nutmeg: Adds extra depth and complexity, making this so much more than a basic dessert bar.
Raisins or sultanas: For a chewy, fruity note that gives each slice a classic, homey feel. Swap in currants if you’re feeling adventurous.
Icing sugar: This blends into a thick, glossy glaze to create the signature cross on top—so fun and instantly recognizable.
Milk (for glaze): Just a splash is all you need to transform icing sugar into a drizzle-worthy icing.

How to Make No-Bake Hot Cross Bun Slice

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure there’s some overhang on the sides for easy lifting. This guarantees neat slices and saves you from a sticky clean-up! If you want perfectly even pieces, use a ruler to flatten the edges or press down with an offset spatula when it’s time to chill.

Step 2: Chop the Hot Cross Buns

Chop up your hot cross buns into small, bite-sized cubes—about 1/2 to 1 inch pieces work best. The chunkier they are, the more rustic your slice, and each square will have delicious pockets of bun and fruit. If you love extra texture, try toasting the pieces in a skillet for a couple of minutes before using; it adds a lovely crunch and makes your kitchen smell amazing.

Step 3: Make the Buttery, Chocolatey Mix

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the butter, sweetened condensed milk, and white chocolate chips. Stir constantly to avoid scorching—keep it gentle and patient, and soon you’ll have a smooth, glossy base. Once melted and combined, take the pan off the heat. This mixture is the heart of your No-Bake Hot Cross Bun Slice: creamy, sweet, and totally irresistible!

Step 4: Add the Spice and Fruit

Now, swirl in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and raisins (or sultanas) while the mixture is still warm—this lets the spices bloom and the fruit plump up a little. You’ll instantly smell those classic Easter bun spices, and it really brings the whole slice to life.

Step 5: Mix and Press

Pour that glorious, spiced mixture all over your chopped hot cross buns in a large mixing bowl. Fold it all together gently—use a spatula to ensure every chunk of bun is coated. Then, transfer everything to your lined dish and press it down firmly and evenly. A little muscle here means neat, compact slices later!

Step 6: Chill to Set

Cover your pan with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge for at least 3 to 4 hours, or until completely firm. This is when all the flavors hang out together and the texture transforms into sliceable perfection. If you’re in a rush, a quick hour in the freezer helps—but patience pays off!

Step 7: Make the Cross Glaze

Once your slice is firm, mix up your glaze: combine icing sugar with 1–2 teaspoons of milk to make a thick, pipeable icing. If you don’t have a piping bag, a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off works perfectly! Pipe or drizzle neat crosses over the slice, echoing the look of a classic hot cross bun. Admire your handiwork before slicing into generous, joyful squares.

How to Serve No-Bake Hot Cross Bun Slice

Garnishes

A simple cross of sweet, satin glaze is the classic touch, but why stop there? Sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon over the top for a pretty finish, or dust with a tiny pinch of nutmeg for added aroma. A handful of finely chopped toasted nuts also makes a nice, modern twist if you’re feeling fancy!

Side Dishes

If you’re serving the No-Bake Hot Cross Bun Slice as part of an Easter brunch or afternoon tea, keep things light and springy: pair with bowls of fresh strawberries, clusters of grapes, or citrus wedges. For a decadent dessert, try a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of softly whipped cream on the side—it’s pure comfort in every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Let your creativity shine! For gatherings, arrange the squares in a checkerboard pattern on a vintage platter, or pile them high like a tower cake. If you’re making these for kids, cut them into smaller nuggets and stack on skewers for a super fun “dessert kabob.” Mini cupcake wrappers also make the slices easy to serve and pick up at parties—no forks required!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The No-Bake Hot Cross Bun Slice keeps wonderfully in the fridge—just store the pieces in an airtight container for up to five days. The texture actually improves as it sits, and those sweet, spiced flavors only get better with time!

Freezing

Want to make ahead for a special occasion? Freeze individual squares between layers of parchment paper in a well-sealed container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight (or at room temperature for an hour) and glaze just before serving for the freshest look and taste.

Reheating

Since this is a no-bake treat, there’s no need to reheat—just let your slice come to room temperature for the creamiest, richest texture. If you do prefer it a little softer, a very quick (5–10 seconds) zap in the microwave will make the chocolate slightly melty, but it’s absolutely delicious chilled!

FAQs

Can I make this No-Bake Hot Cross Bun Slice with chocolate hot cross buns?

Absolutely! Chocolate or even fruity buns work beautifully in this slice. Just know the color and flavor will be a bit different—but delicious all the same!

Is there a way to make it dairy free?

Yes! Swap in plant-based butter, dairy-free condensed “milk,” and vegan white chocolate chips for a dairy-free version. The results are still creamy and satisfying, with all the signature spice.

Do I have to use raisins, or can I leave them out?

If you’re not a raisin fan, feel free to leave them out or substitute with other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped apricots. The slice will be equally delicious and will still have that classic Easter feel!

How far ahead can I make No-Bake Hot Cross Bun Slice?

You can make the entire slice up to five days in advance. For the neatest glaze, add it on the day you’re serving; otherwise, the slice will keep perfectly glazed in the fridge.

Can I use a different type Dessert, Holiday Treat

Yes! Swap the white chocolate chips for milk or even dark chocolate if you prefer a richer, deeper flavor. It’s a fun way to customize the slice for different tastes (or based on what’s in your pantry).

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to surprise everyone at your next gathering (or just treat yourself!), this No-Bake Hot Cross Bun Slice is the sweet, spiced, and completely fuss-free bake you need in your life. Every bite is nostalgia, celebration, and joy—no oven required. Give it a go, and you might just find yourself making room for this new classic every Easter!

No-Bake Hot Cross Bun Slice Recipe

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4.7 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 16 slices 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delight in the flavors of Easter with this easy-to-make No-Bake Hot Cross Bun Slice. A fusion of traditional hot cross buns and a creamy, spiced slice that’s perfect for the holiday season.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Slice:

4 hot cross buns, chopped into small cubes
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup raisins or sultanas

Glaze Cross:

1/2 cup icing sugar
1–2 teaspoons milk

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Instructions

Prepare the Slice: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Combine chopped hot cross buns in a bowl.
Melt Ingredients: In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter, condensed milk, and white chocolate until smooth.
Add Flavors: Remove from heat, add vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and raisins. Mix well.
Combine Mixtures: Pour over bun pieces, mix to coat evenly. Press into dish and refrigerate for 3-4 hours.
Prepare Glaze: Mix icing sugar with milk to form a thick glaze. Pipe crosses over the set slice.
Serve: Slice into squares and enjoy!