Ingredients:
For the Hot Cross Bun Base:
- 4 Hot Cross Buns
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Vanilla Custard Filling:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (icing sugar)
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or water
- Additional Hot Cross Bun for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking dish or pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- For the Hot Cross Bun Base:
- Slice the Hot Cross Buns horizontally to create top and bottom halves.
- Place the bottom halves of the buns in the prepared baking dish, cut-side up.
- Brush the melted butter over the cut sides of the buns.
- Bake the Hot Cross Bun base in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the buns are slightly toasted. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- For the Vanilla Custard Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the whole milk over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not boil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the custard from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
- Pour the prepared custard over the toasted Hot Cross Bun base in the baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- For the Topping:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk or water until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed to achieve a pourable glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the top of the custard layer.
- If desired, decorate the top of the Hot Cross Bun Vanilla Slice with additional Hot Cross Bun pieces.
- Refrigerate the assembled Vanilla Slice for at least 2-3 hours, or until the custard is set.
- Once set, remove the Vanilla Slice from the refrigerator and use the parchment paper or foil overhang to lift it out of the baking dish. Place it on a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles.
- Serve the Hot Cross Bun Vanilla Slice chilled and enjoy!
This delightful dessert combines the flavors of traditional Hot Cross Buns with creamy vanilla custard for a delicious treat perfect for Easter or any occasion.