Instructions:

Preheat & prepare ​

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Generously grease a small baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and add extra richness. ​

Prepare the buns ​

Slice the Apple Crumble Hot Cross Buns and spread each piece with softened butter. Arrange them snugly in the baking dish, slightly overlapping to create layers. Scatter over any extra fruit if using for added bursts of sweetness. ​

Mix the soak ​

In a bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, eggs, sugar and vanilla until smooth and well combined. Slowly pour the mixture over the buns, gently pressing them down so every piece is soaked. Leave to stand for 10–15 minutes, allowing the buns to absorb all that creamy goodness. ​

Bake to golden perfection ​

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the pudding is softly set with a lightly golden, crisp top. For an extra indulgent finish, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with brown sugar during the final 5 minutes to create a caramelised crunch. ​

Serve & enjoy ​

Allow to cool slightly, then serve warm with generous helpings of hot Co-op Custard poured over the top. 

Tips

• Nestle Chocolate Eggs between the layers before baking for a fun Easter surprise ​
• Add a drizzle of caramel or toffee sauce just before serving for extra indulgence ​
• Finish with a light dusting of icing sugar for a festive, bakery-style touch