Air fryer hot cross buns breakfast became my shortcut when I wanted that bakery-fresh warmth without turning on the oven. The first time I reheated hot cross buns in the microwave, they went chewy and uneven. Then I tried the air fryer, but too hot, and they dried out fast. After testing this three ways, whole, halved, and buttered, I discovered halving and lightly buttering at the right temperature gives crisp edges and soft, fluffy centers. Now they taste freshly baked in minutes.
Why This Air Fryer Hot Cross Buns Breakfast Works
Hot cross buns are traditionally baked and reheated in the oven at moderate heat. The air fryer, however, circulates hot air evenly, which revives the bread’s texture faster.
After testing temperatures, 340°F (170°C) worked best. It warms the interior while lightly crisping the cut sides without burning the sugary tops. Splitting the buns before air frying exposes more surface area, creating that golden, buttery finish. This air fryer hot cross buns breakfast feels indulgent but takes under 10 minutes from start to finish.
Timing for Air Fryer Hot Cross Buns Breakfast
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 minutes
Total Time: 8 minutes
Ingredients for Air Fryer Hot Cross Buns Breakfast
Keep it simple and comforting.
Main:
- 2 hot cross buns
- 1–2 tablespoons softened butter
Optional Toppings:
- Drizzle of honey or maple syrup
- Cream cheese or mascarpone
- Fresh berries
- Sprinkle of cinnamon sugar
How to Make Hot Cross Buns Breakfast in the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 340°F (170°C) for 3 minutes.
- Slice each hot cross bun in half horizontally.
- Lightly spread butter on the cut sides.
- Place buns cut-side up in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry at 340°F (170°C) for 5–6 minutes until the edges are golden and slightly crisp while the centers remain soft.
- Check at 4 minutes if your air fryer runs hot to prevent over-browning.
- Remove carefully and add optional toppings.
- Serve warm for best texture.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Hot Cross Buns Breakfast
- Don’t overcrowd: Leave space for even airflow.
- Use moderate heat: Higher than 350°F (175°C) can dry them out.
- Watch the tops: The icing cross can brown quickly.
- Stale buns revival: Lightly mist with water before air frying.
- Extra crisp: Add a thin sprinkle of sugar before cooking.
- French toast twist: Dip halves in egg mixture and air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 6–8 minutes for a richer version.
Storing and Reheating Hot Cross Buns Breakfast
Storage: Store buns in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 3–4 minutes until warmed through.
Variations:
- Add sliced bananas and peanut butter.
- Top with Greek yogurt and berries.
- Drizzle melted dark chocolate.
- Make a breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs (cook eggs to 160°F / 71°C).
Conclusion
Air fryer hot cross buns breakfast is one of those simple upgrades that feels special. The crisp edges and warm, spiced interior make them taste freshly baked again. Once you try this quick method, it’s hard to go back to microwaving.
