Vegan Hot Cross Loaf – Easy Gluten-Free Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting, and absolutely delightful baked treat that’s both vegan and gluten-free, you’ve just stumbled upon a gem. This Vegan Hot Cross Loaf is everything you want from a sweet bread: warm spices, bursts of citrusy orange, chewy raisins, and that perfectly tender crumb that melts in your mouth. And the best part? It’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s Easter brunch or just a quiet afternoon snack with a steaming mug of tea.

What makes this loaf stand out is the combination of wholesome ingredients and a touch of nostalgia. We’ve swapped out the traditional dairy and gluten components for plant-based and gluten-free alternatives without compromising flavor or texture. The result? A beautiful loaf with a soft, moist crumb, balanced sweetness, and an irresistible glaze that adds a subtle shine and a hint of fruity goodness.

This recipe came to life when I was craving hot cross buns but didn’t want to fuss over individual rolls. So, I thought, why not turn it into a loaf that’s easy to slice, share, and enjoy? It’s also a fantastic option for anyone following a vegan or gluten-free diet but still craving the comforting flavors of a classic hot cross bun. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making this loaf all year round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Vegan Hot Cross Loaf. Let’s break down what makes it so special and why it’s worth baking again and again.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. Unlike traditional hot cross buns, which require shaping individual rolls, this recipe allows you to pour everything into a loaf tin and bake away. It’s low-effort, high-reward baking at its finest.

The flavor is absolutely divine. The combination of orange juice, cinnamon, and raisins creates a rich and aromatic profile that fills your kitchen with the coziest scent. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm, spiced blanket of deliciousness. Plus, the orange zest adds a fresh, zippy contrast that keeps every bite interesting.

This loaf is naturally vegan and gluten-free. By using almond milk and gluten-free flour, we’ve created a recipe that caters to a variety of dietary preferences. Yet, it’s so tasty that even those who usually prefer traditional baked goods will be asking for seconds.

It’s also highly adaptable. You can switch out the raisins for dried cranberries, dates, or even chocolate chips if you’re feeling adventurous. The cross and glaze are optional, but they definitely take the presentation and taste to the next level.

Lastly, it’s perfect for special occasions or just because. While it’s a fantastic centerpiece for Easter brunch, there’s no reason not to enjoy this loaf whenever the craving strikes. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift if you’re looking to brighten someone’s day.

Health Benefits

This Vegan Hot Cross Loaf isn’t just about indulgence—it’s also packed with some pretty fantastic nutritional benefits. Let’s take a closer look at why you can feel good about enjoying every slice.

The use of ground almonds (or almond flour) adds a wonderful boost of nutrients. Almonds are high in healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, which acts as a powerful antioxidant. They also contain magnesium, which is essential for maintaining bone health and muscle function.

By choosing maple syrup instead of refined sugar, this recipe offers a more natural source of sweetness. Maple syrup contains essential minerals like zinc and manganese, which play important roles in immune function and metabolism.

The raisins or sultanas aren’t just for chewy texture and sweetness—they also offer a good dose of dietary fiber, iron, and antioxidants. Plus, they provide natural energy, making this loaf a great snack for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Using coconut oil instead of butter helps keep this recipe dairy-free while providing beneficial medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can support metabolism and provide a quick energy boost. Alternatively, if you opt for olive or vegetable oil, you’re also adding healthy unsaturated fats to your diet.

Lastly, by using a gluten-free flour blend, this recipe is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. It ensures everyone can enjoy this delightful loaf without compromising their dietary needs.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Preparing this Vegan Hot Cross Loaf is a breeze, even if you’re new to gluten-free and vegan baking. Here’s a breakdown of the time commitment, serving size, and nutritional value you can expect.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings: Makes approximately 12 slices

Nutritional Information (Per Slice):
Calories: 210
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 12g
(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient choices.)

Ingredients List

Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. Here’s everything you need to whip up this delectable Vegan Hot Cross Loaf.

Wet Ingredients:

• 60g (¼ cup) coconut oil, melted (or use olive oil or vegetable oil)
• 60ml (¼ cup) orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
• 150ml (⅔ cup) almond milk (or other plant-based milk of your choice)
• 6 tablespoons maple syrup (or other natural sweeteners like agave syrup)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (or use candied orange peel or orange extract)
• 100g (⅔ cup) raisins or sultanas (or swap with other dried fruit like cranberries, dates, or chopped figs)

Dry Ingredients:

• 150g (1 ¼ cup) ground almonds (or almond flour)
• 150g (1 ¼ cup) gluten-free flour blend (or plain flour if you’re not gluten-free)
• 2 heaped teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)

For the Cross (Optional):

• 3 tablespoons gluten-free flour
• 2 tablespoons water

For Decoration (Optional):

• 1 teaspoon apricot jam
• ½ teaspoon hot water

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients sorted, it’s time to move on to the most exciting part—putting it all together!

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating this Vegan Hot Cross Loaf is a simple process that involves mixing, baking, and decorating. Let’s walk through each step with detailed instructions to make sure your loaf turns out perfect every time.

Preheat Your Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Line a loaf tin with greased baking paper to prevent sticking. Set it aside.

Prepare the Wet Mixture:

1. If using coconut oil, melt it first by placing it in a heatproof bowl and microwaving it for 20–30 seconds or melting it over a stove on low heat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, orange juice, almond milk, and maple syrup.
3. Add the ground cinnamon, orange zest, and raisins or sultanas. Stir everything together until well incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

1. In a separate bowl, sift together the gluten-free flour blend, ground almonds (or almond flour), baking powder, and bicarbonate of soda.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. You want a thick, smooth batter without overmixing, as that can make the loaf dense.

Transfer to the Loaf Tin:

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin.
2. Use a spatula or spoon to level the top and ensure an even surface.

Prepare the Cross (Optional):

1. If you’re going for that classic hot cross look, make the cross mixture by mixing 3 tablespoons of gluten-free flour with 2 tablespoons of water.
2. Stir until you have a thick, smooth paste.
3. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the tip snipped off.
4. Pipe a cross pattern over the top of the batter. This step is completely optional, but it does add that iconic touch.

Bake the Loaf:

1. Place the loaf tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes.
2. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer or toothpick into the center of the loaf. It should come out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs. If it comes out sticky, give it another 5–10 minutes and check again.
3. Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Decorate with Apricot Glaze (Optional):

1. While the loaf cools, prepare the glaze by mixing 1 teaspoon of apricot jam with ½ teaspoon of hot water.
2. Brush the glaze over the top of the loaf to give it a lovely, glossy finish. This also adds a hint of sweetness and keeps the loaf moist.
3. Let the loaf cool completely before slicing, which will help it hold its shape and ensure perfect slices.

How to Serve

Serving this Vegan Hot Cross Loaf is as enjoyable as making it. Its delightful flavor and moist texture make it perfect for various occasions. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to make the most of your loaf:

• Warm and Fresh: This loaf is heavenly when served slightly warm. Simply slice a piece and enjoy as-is, or give it a quick toast for a slight crunch around the edges.
• Spread with Vegan Butter: A generous swipe of vegan butter melts beautifully into the loaf, enhancing its moist and tender crumb.

• With a Dollop of Jam: Pair a slice with your favorite fruit jam or marmalade for a touch of extra sweetness.

• Alongside Coffee or Tea: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this loaf pairs perfectly with a hot beverage. The warm spices and citrus notes complement herbal teas, chai lattes, or a cozy cup of coffee.
• As Part of a Vegan Brunch Spread: Serve this loaf alongside fresh fruit, vegan yogurt, and a selection of spreads for a delightful brunch experience.
• Gift-Worthy Treat: Wrap slices individually or present the entire loaf as a thoughtful, homemade gift for friends or family.

This loaf is versatile enough to suit any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a simple snack or dressing it up for a special event.

Pairing Suggestions

Although this Vegan Hot Cross Loaf shines beautifully on its own, it also pairs wonderfully with various beverages and sides. Here are some of the best pairing options to enhance your experience:

• Warm Drinks:
  • Herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, or cinnamon are ideal companions to this spiced loaf.
  • A rich, creamy chai latte complements the cinnamon and orange notes perfectly.
  • Freshly brewed coffee or an almond milk latte also work well, especially if you enjoy a bold, roasty contrast.

• Fruit and Nut Spreads:

  • Serve with almond butter or peanut butter for a nutty, satisfying twist.
  • Pair with homemade orange marmalade or berry jam to enhance the fruity undertones.
• Smoothies:
  • A vibrant green smoothie made with spinach, banana, and almond milk makes for a refreshing and nourishing accompaniment.
  • Berry-based smoothies add a lovely contrast of tartness and sweetness.
• Yogurt Parfait:
  • For a balanced and filling breakfast, serve slices with a side of vegan yogurt, fresh berries, and a sprinkle of granola.

These pairings not only enhance the flavor of the loaf but also provide a well-rounded, satisfying meal or snack experience.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of this delightful Vegan Hot Cross Loaf, here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious for days to come:

Storage:

1. Allow the loaf to cool completely before storing.
2. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
3. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing:

1. To freeze, slice the loaf into individual pieces and wrap each slice in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
2. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
3. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

1. For a warm, fresh-from-the-oven experience, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
2. Alternatively, toast slices lightly in a toaster or oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5–7 minutes.

These storage methods ensure that you can enjoy this tasty loaf anytime you want. And the best part? It freezes exceptionally well, so you can always have a slice on hand for a cozy breakfast or snack.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making this Vegan Hot Cross Loaf is straightforward, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Overmixing the Batter:
   • Mixing the batter too much can result in a dense, heavy loaf. Stir only until the ingredients are just combined.
2. Using the Wrong Flour:
   • For gluten-free baking, it’s crucial to use a quality gluten-free flour blend. Plain almond flour alone won’t provide the necessary structure.

3. Skipping the Cooling Process:

   • Slicing the loaf while it’s still warm may cause it to fall apart. Letting it cool completely ensures clean slices.
4. Not Checking for Doneness:
   • Oven temperatures can vary, so always test your loaf by inserting a skewer or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s done.
5. Neglecting Proper Storage:
   • To maintain freshness, store the loaf properly in an airtight container or freeze it if you’re not consuming it within a few days.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure your Vegan Hot Cross Loaf comes out perfectly every time.

Pro Tips

Want to make sure your Vegan Hot Cross Loaf is the best it can be? These pro tips will help you get the most out of your baking experience and enhance the flavor and texture of your loaf.

1. Use Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice and Zest:
   • While you can use store-bought orange juice, using freshly squeezed juice and fresh orange zest gives the loaf a vibrant, natural citrus flavor. If you’re a fan of that zippy orange taste, you can even add a little extra zest to the batter.
2. Drain Your Raisins for Maximum Flavor:
   • If you want to take your loaf to the next level, soak your raisins or sultanas in warm orange juice for about 10 minutes before adding them to the batter. This plumps them up and infuses them with extra citrusy goodness.
3. Choose the Right Gluten-Free Flour Blend:
   • Not all gluten-free flour blends are created equal. Choose a high-quality blend that includes a mix of rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour for the best results. If you’re not gluten-free, all-purpose flour works just fine.
4. Don’t Overmix the Batter:
   • To keep your loaf soft and tender, mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense and chewy texture, which is not what you want.
5. Adjust Sweetness to Taste:
   • While the maple syrup adds a lovely natural sweetness, feel free to increase or reduce the amount according to your preference. You can also swap it out for agave syrup or coconut sugar if desired.
6. Make It Extra Moist:
   • If you prefer a slightly moister loaf, try adding an extra tablespoon of coconut oil or almond milk to the batter. This works especially well if you’re planning to store the loaf for a few days.
7. Experiment with Mix-Ins:
   • While raisins are traditional, you can easily swap them out for other dried fruits, like cranberries, chopped figs, or even dried apricots. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in a handful of vegan chocolate chips for a special treat.
8. Don’t Skip the Cooling Process:
   • Letting your loaf cool completely before slicing is essential. This allows the crumb to set properly, ensuring clean, even slices.
9. Add a Sprinkle of Spice:
   • If you’re a fan of warm spices, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to enhance the cozy flavor profile of the loaf.
10. Glaze for Extra Shine:
    • Brushing the loaf with apricot glaze is optional, but it adds a beautiful glossy finish and a hint of fruity sweetness that pairs perfectly with the orange and cinnamon.

These pro tips are guaranteed to elevate your Vegan Hot Cross Loaf to new heights of deliciousness. Now, let’s address some of the most frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

It’s natural to have a few questions before diving into a new recipe. Here are the most commonly asked questions to help you bake this loaf with confidence.

Q: Can I use regular flour instead of a gluten-free blend?
A: Yes, if you don’t need to follow a gluten-free diet, you can use all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour in place of the gluten-free blend. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.

Q: Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute maple syrup with agave syrup, coconut sugar, or even brown sugar. Just be aware that altering the sweetener may slightly affect the flavor and moisture level.

Q: Can I make this loaf without coconut oil?
A: Yes, you can use olive oil, vegetable oil, or even melted vegan butter as a substitute for coconut oil. Each will give the loaf a slightly different flavor and texture, but all work well.

Q: How can I make the loaf fluffier?
A: To achieve a fluffier loaf, make sure not to overmix the batter. Additionally, double-check that your baking powder and bicarbonate of soda are fresh and not expired.

Q: Can I make this loaf ahead of time?
A: Yes! This loaf stores beautifully. Simply bake, cool, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Q: Can I freeze the loaf whole instead of in slices?
A: Yes, you can freeze the entire loaf. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before reheating or slicing.

Q: How do I make the loaf more moist?
A: Adding an extra tablespoon of coconut oil or almond milk to the batter can enhance moisture. Also, be sure not to overbake the loaf.

Q: Is the cross and glaze necessary?
A: Not at all! They’re completely optional. The cross adds a traditional touch, and the glaze adds extra sweetness and shine, but the loaf is still delicious without them.

Q: Can I use other dried fruits besides raisins?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use cranberries, dates, chopped apricots, or even vegan chocolate chips if you’re feeling creative.

Q: Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
A: Yes! Simply divide the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Hopefully, these answers have cleared up any doubts you might have. Now, let’s wrap things up and get you baking!

Conclusion & Call to Action

There you have it—a beautifully fragrant, moist, and irresistibly delicious Vegan Hot Cross Loaf that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack, this loaf is guaranteed to impress. The best part? It’s so easy to make that even novice bakers can pull it off without a hitch.

The combination of warm spices, zesty orange, and chewy raisins is pure comfort food. Plus, knowing it’s gluten-free and vegan makes it all the more satisfying. You can enjoy a slice without feeling guilty or compromising on flavor. It’s a treat everyone can appreciate, regardless of their dietary preferences.

Now that you’ve got everything you need to create this amazing loaf, it’s time to head into the kitchen and start baking. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your mix-ins and decorations. After all, the best part of baking is making a recipe your own.

I’d love to hear how your Vegan Hot Cross Loaf turns out! Leave a comment below to share your experience, and feel free to ask more questions if you have them. And if you’re feeling extra proud of your creation, snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious masterpieces.

Happy baking, and enjoy every cozy, flavorful bite!

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