Plan your eats to make healthy hot-cross-buns & chocolate

A healthier way to enjoy the seasonal classics

This weekend (18th to 21st April 2025) sees the long-awaited bank holiday Easter weekend. A time for relaxation, indulgence, and of course, a few extra treats. Even if you don’t celebrate Easter, it’s hard to avoid all the hot cross buns! Not to mention chocolate eggs popping up everywhere this time of year. These seasonal treats can be hard to resist so it’s nice to have an option that satisfies your cravings. If you’re looking to enjoy those classic flavours in a healthier way, read on! There’s always a lighter, more nourishing alternative that still hits the spot.

A Nourishing Easter

Easter is a beautiful time to pause, reconnect, and enjoy the little things – time with loved ones, the changing seasons, and yes, delicious food. While traditional treats often take the spotlight, it’s possible to enjoy them in a way that leaves you feeling great, both physically and mentally.

Choosing what feels good

Instead of focusing on restriction, tune into what truly satisfies you. Eating slowly, picking your favourites, and giving yourself permission to enjoy them fully can make the holiday feel extra special.

New takes on Easter flavours

Ever wish you could enjoy the delicious taste of hot cross buns all day long? Well, with this recipe, you’ll be amazed at how you can enjoy those comforting spices and sweetness in a healthier, more nourishing form. It’s the perfect way to bring those Easter flavours into your day, without compromise! If you love the flavour of hot cross buns, a chia pudding or overnight oats recipe could be just what you’re looking for; the same comforting spices and sweetness, but with ingredients that provide steady energy and keep you feeling full. Both options are easy to prepare ahead of time, making them perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack.

More traditional recipes

If you’re craving more classic hot cross bun-inspired options, check out these recipes for a little more of that Easter magic. Each one brings those familiar, comforting flavours in a variety of forms, so you can enjoy them however you like!

Traditional Hot Cross Buns

Or a sliceable Hot Cross Bun Loaf

A new take with Hot Cross Bun Muffins

A very quick and easy idea with Hot Cross Bun Pancakes

Chocolate with a Little Extra Goodness

Chocolate is part of the fun – and it can absolutely be part of a feel-good Easter. For a healthier twist, try making energy-style balls by blending dates with natural peanut butter or ground nuts. Once shaped into small egg-like forms, you can coat them in rich, dark chocolate for a treat that satisfies both your sweet tooth and your energy needs. These little bites are more indulgent, but with the added bonus of nourishing ingredients that keep you feeling good inside and out. Alternatively, instead of eating shop bought chocolate eggs, make some homemade chocolate truffles using nut butter and high-quality chocolate to create a decadent, wholesome treat packed with healthy fats and protein.

Support Your Energy, Not Just Your Cravings

The more you support your energy with whole foods, movement, rest, and hydration, the less likely you are to feel out of balance. That’s not a rule – it’s just a gentle nudge that taking care of yourself feels really good.

Celebrating in a Way That Lasts

Easter doesn’t have to be all or nothing. It can be full of joy, flavour, and connection – without feeling like you’ve overdone it. When you focus on what you truly enjoy and what helps you feel your best, your choices naturally become more balanced, more satisfying, and more sustainable.

The Hot Cross Bun Chia Pudding Recipe

This is one of those recipes that tastes better the longer you leave it. If you’ve tried various chia puddings before and really think they’re better for someone else to enjoy, substitute the chia seeds for 50g of porridge oats and make it hot cross bun overnight oats instead. Keep the 125ml of milk, add everything else the same (add a few more currants and apricots if you wish), and let it do its thing in the fridge overnight. Same flavours, different vibe – with a creamier texture and familiar oaty feel.

Print

Hot Cross Bun Style Chia Pudding

All the Hot Cross Bun Flavours in a healthier style pot

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Keyword: chia, chia pudding, hot cross buns

Created by:: Laurena @LifeDietHealth

Gather

• 2 tablespoons chia seeds (OR, 50g oats for hot cross bun overnight oats).
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon mixed spice (or extra cinnamon)
• 1/2 teaspoon cocoa powder
• Small pinch of sea salt
• 125 ml milk of choice (almond, oat, soya, etc.)
• 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon currants or raisins
• 1 dried apricot finely chopped (I use natural sulphur dioxide free)
• zest of orange/satsuma or lemon (approx 1/2-1 teaspoon)

Prepare

1. In a small jar or glass, mix the chia seeds with the cinnamon, mixed spice, cocoa and salt.

2. Measure in the milk and the vanilla. Stir well until all the dry ingredients are mostly incorporated.

3. Add the currants and chopped apricot, then grate in some zest. Mix in.

4. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, then stir again to check there are no clumps of chia seeds. Do a quick taste test if you wish and add more spice, zest or salt if needed. If you find it needs sweetening, add a teaspoon of your favourite liquid sweetener such as maple syrup.

5. Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or overnight until thickened. You can cover if you feel you want to, or leave it as it is. No harm giving it a stir every so often when you open the fridge.

6. Stir, or don't stir. Top it, layer it or not.

   Eat as it is, or top with yogurt or fruit (you could even try and make a cross for a hot cross bun)! Alternatively, layer it in a fresh glass with some natural yogurt or fresh fruit. You could even sprinkle some nuts or seeds on top for extra texture or even a grating of chocolate!

7. Serve & Enjoy!

What do I need?

Hopefully, you already have everything you need for these healthier Easter recipes, but if you’re new to preparing nutritious treats or just want a refresh, here are a few items you might find helpful. These links will take you straight to Amazon, where you can easily search for anything you need. If you follow these links, Amazon may pay us a small commission, which helps cover the costs of running the website. We’d really appreciate it if you do, thank you! Take a look at these: measuring spoons, lidded single portion jars, fine graters, dried apricots, and Easter decorative items. Much appreciated!

Serving

Serve your chia pudding or overnight oats straight from the fridge in individual jars or bowls. Top with a few extra currants, chopped nuts, or a spoonful of yoghurt for added texture and flavour. A little drizzle of maple syrup or a squeeze of fresh orange is perfect!

Storing

The prepared chia pudding or oats will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days either covered or in a sealed jar. Perfect for a make-ahead breakfast or snack throughout the Easter weekend (and beyond).

Sharing

I hope you’ll enjoy making and eating these nourishing twists on Easter favourites, and if you do, why not share the love? Snap a pic, tag me on social media, or pass the recipe along to a friend who’d appreciate a healthier take on the season’s treats. You can find me @LifeDietHealth or using #LifeDietHealth on Instagram, Pinterest,  Facebook or X.

Your comments are always appreciated, so drop me a line below! Have a fabulous long weekend.

I hope to speak with you soon

Laurena x