Let’s be honest. Leftover hot cross buns aren’t usually a problem.

Most of the time they mysteriously disappear off the bench, out of the bread bin, or straight from the toaster before anyone else gets a look in. But occasionally, usually when someone gets a bit overexcited and buys the fifteen pack. A few buns might linger for an extra day or two.

The good news? Slightly older hot cross buns are actually perfect for a few classic kitchen upgrades.

Here are a few of our favourite ways to give them a second life.

Hot Cross Bun Bread & Butter Pudding

This one is a classic for a reason.

Slice your buns in half, butter them generously, and layer them into a baking dish. Whisk together eggs, milk, cream, a little sugar and vanilla, then pour it over the top. Let it soak for a few minutes before baking until golden and custardy.

The fruit and spices in the buns do most of the heavy lifting here, so you end up with a pudding that’s rich, fragrant and properly comforting.

Best served warm with a dollop of cream or ice cream.

Hot Cross Bun French Toast

A slightly stale bun is perfect for French toast.

Slice it in half, dip it in a mixture of egg, milk and a little cinnamon, then cook it in a pan with butter until golden. The fruit caramelises slightly, the edges crisp up, and the inside stays soft.

Top with maple syrup, yoghurt, or fresh fruit.

Breakfast sorted.

Toasted with Something a Bit Extra

Sometimes the best solution is the simplest one.

Slice your buns, toast them well, and go a bit heavier on the toppings than usual. Butter is essential, but a few extras work beautifully too:

• Honey
• Ricotta and a drizzle of maple
• Peanut butter
• Or if you’re feeling particularly festive, a swipe of spiced rum butter

Hot Cross Bun Ice Cream Sandwich

This one’s dangerously good.

Lightly toast the bun halves, let them cool slightly, then sandwich your favourite ice cream in the middle. The warm spices and fruit make it feel almost like dessert already.

It’s messy. But worth it.

The Truth About Leftover Buns

Realistically though, leftover hot cross buns don’t last long in most households.

They tend to vanish somewhere between “I’ll just have one more” and “who finished the last bun?”

But if you do find yourself with a few sitting around, now you’ve got a few ways to make them even better.