Hot cross cookies

Are you tired of the same hot cross buns? Why not add some variety with these delicious hot cross cookies? Not only are these delightful treats a delicious alternative, but they are guaranteed to delight your entire family. With their irresistible taste and adorable appearance, these cookies are quickly becoming a beloved tradition. So if you’re looking to add some excitement to your Easter baking, these sweet and delicious hot cross cookies are for you!

Ingredients

200 g soft butter, plus some butter for the trays
100g light muscovado sugar
1 egg
250 g flour
1 tsp cinnamon
2 teaspoons of baking soda
100g sultanas
200g white chocolate chips

Preparation steps

Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4.
Lightly butter some baking sheets.
In a large bowl, beat butter, sugar and egg until smooth.
Add flour, cinnamon and baking powder and knead into a dough.
Add the sultanas and 100g white chocolate and mix.
Roll clumps of dough into balls the size of golf balls.
Lay them flat on the trays, leaving enough space between them for them to expand.
Bake for 10 minutes until golden brown (you may need to do this in batches).
Remove the cookies from the trays and let them cool on wire racks.
Melt the remaining white chocolate in the microwave on low in 20 second increments.
Using a small piping bag or teaspoon, carefully drizzle a cross onto each cookie.
Allow to set before eating.
These cookies can be stored in a cookie jar for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Information

kcal	fat	saturates	carbohydrates	Sugar	fiber	protein	Salt
231	13g	8g	25g	16g	1g	3g	0.4g

Equipment and tools

Here are the essential equipment and tools you need to make Hot Cross Cookies:

baking sheets
mixing bowl
Electric mixer or hand mixer
Spatula or wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Cooling rack
parchment paper
Cookie cutter (optional)

Allergen information

Please note the following allergen information for Hot Cross Cookies:

Butter: Contains dairy products
Egg: Contains egg
Plain flour: May contain gluten
Sultanas: May contain sulfites
White chocolate chips: Contains dairy products

Storage and leftovers

Here are some tips for storing and dealing with leftover Hot Cross Cookies:

Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
If desired, you can freeze the cookies for longer storage. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months.

Health Benefits of Hot Cross Cookies

Hot cross cookies are not only a delicious treat but also offer several health benefits. Despite their delicious nature, these cookies can contribute to your overall well-being when consumed in moderation. Let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of some of the key ingredients found in hot cross cookies:

1. Butter

Hot cross cookies typically contain softened butter, which gives the dough a rich and creamy consistency. Although butter is rich in saturated fat, it also contains important vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E and vitamin K. These vitamins play a crucial role in supporting various functions in the body, including maintaining healthy vision and strengthening the Immune system and promotion of adequate blood clotting.

2. Light Muscovado Sugar

Compared to granulated sugar, light muscovado sugar is a less refined sugar that contains more natural molasses. This type of sugar gives hot cross cookies a distinct caramel flavor. Although it’s important to consume refined sugar in moderation, the molasses in muscovado sugar contains some important minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium and iron.

Something similar you might also like:

3. Egg

Eggs are a common ingredient in baking. They help hold the dough together and keep it moisturized. They are an excellent source of high-quality protein and provide all the essential amino acids the body needs. Eggs also contain various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, vitamin E and zinc, which contribute to healthy brain function, bone health and immune system support.

4. Plain flour

Plain flour is a staple in baking and forms the base for hot cross cookies. It is a good source of energy and contains carbohydrates that provide energy to the body. In addition, plain flour provides small amounts of essential nutrients such as iron, thiamine, niacin and folic acid, which promote red blood cell production, metabolism and nervous system function.

5. Cinnamon

Cinnamon not only gives hot cross cookies a delicious taste, but it also has potential health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants that help fight inflammation and protect the body from oxidative stress. Cinnamon may also have anti-inflammatory properties, support blood sugar control, and promote heart health.

6. Baking soda

Baking soda is a leavening agent used in hot cross cookies to help them rise and become fluffy. It consists of a mixture of alkaline and acidic components. While baking soda alone does not provide significant health benefits, its use in baking allows for lighter and more enjoyable cookies without the need for excessive amounts of fat.

7. Sultanas

Sultanas, a type of dried grape, are a common accompaniment to hot cross cookies. They offer a natural sweetness and a chewy texture. Sultanas contain a decent amount of fiber, which supports digestion and ensures a feeling of satiety. These dried fruits also provide some important vitamins and minerals, including potassium, iron and B vitamins.

8. White chocolate chips

White chocolate chips are a delicious addition to hot cross cookies, adding a touch of sweetness. Although white chocolate doesn’t offer all the benefits of dark chocolate, it still contains some flavonoids, which are antioxidants that could potentially reduce the risk of certain diseases. However, it is important to note that white chocolate is high in calories and should be enjoyed in moderation.

Hot cross cookies can be a tasty and enjoyable treat that can also provide some nutritional value. However, due to their calorie and sugar content, it is important to consume them as part of a balanced diet and limit excessive intake.