Ingredients:

• 4-6 hot cross buns
• 2 cups milk
• 3 eggs
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Butter for spreading
• Optional: Orange zest for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180C or 350F
2. Cut the hot cross buns into slices, about 1/2 inch thick. Spread butter on one side of each slice.
3. Grease a baking dish with butter. Arrange the sliced hot cross buns in the baking dish, slightly overlapping each other.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Pour the milk mixture evenly over the hot cross buns in the baking dish, ensuring all the buns are soaked.
6. Let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the hot cross buns to absorb the liquid.
7. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.
8. Once done, remove the bread and butter pudding from the oven and let it cool slightly.
9. Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of orange zest for a citrusy touch.
10. Serve warm, either on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

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