Hot Cross Buns

Hot Cross Buns Recipe: Soft, Sweet, and Perfect for Easter

Hot cross buns are a delicious and symbolic treat often enjoyed around Easter, though they’re so tasty you’ll want to make them year-round! These soft, spiced buns studded with dried fruits are marked with a signature cross on top and glazed with a sweet, sticky finish. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven, toasted with butter, or paired with tea, this traditional recipe will bring a comforting, homemade touch to your table.

Hot Cross Buns
Hot Cross Buns

Why You’ll Love Hot Cross Buns

  • Rich in Flavor: Warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves add depth, while dried fruits provide natural sweetness.
  • Soft and Fluffy: These buns are perfectly soft and tender, with a slightly chewy texture.
  • Traditional and Festive: A fun baking project to celebrate Easter or any special occasion.
  • Customizable: Swap out dried fruits, add citrus zest, or try chocolate chips for a modern twist.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup warm milk (around 110°F or 43°C)
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup dried fruits (raisins, currants, or a mix)
  • Zest of 1 orange (optional)

For the Cross:

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 5-6 tablespoons water (adjust for consistency)

For the Glaze:

  • 2 tablespoons apricot jam or honey
  • 1 tablespoon water

How to Make Hot Cross Buns

How To Make Hot Cross Buns
How To Make Hot Cross Buns
  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, spices, and salt.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients.
    • Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
    • Gently fold in the dried fruits and orange zest (if using).
  2. Let the Dough Rise:
    • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  3. Shape the Buns:
    • Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, leaving a bit of space between each bun.
    • Cover the pan and let the buns rise again for about 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
  4. Make the Cross Paste:
    • Mix the flour and water to form a thick, pipeable paste. Transfer the paste to a piping bag (or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped) and pipe a cross over each bun.
  5. Bake the Buns:
    • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
  6. Glaze the Buns:
    • While the buns are still warm, heat the apricot jam or honey with water until smooth. Brush the glaze over the buns for a shiny, sticky finish.

Pro Tips for Perfect Hot Cross Buns

  • Temperature Matters: Ensure the milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Rise in a Warm Spot: A slightly warm oven or sunny countertop works great for rising dough.
  • Customize the Fillings: Swap dried fruits for chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or candied peel for a unique twist.
  • Use a Thermometer: The internal temperature of the buns should reach 190°F (88°C) when fully baked.

How to Serve Hot Cross Buns

  • Enjoy warm, straight from the oven.
  • Slice in half, toast, and spread with butter, cream cheese, or jam.
  • Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Freeze baked buns for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
  • Reheating: Warm leftover buns in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast lightly.

Why These Hot Cross Buns Are a Must-Try

There’s something magical about baking hot cross buns—the warm spices, soft texture, and nostalgic aroma fill your home with joy. Whether you’re following tradition or simply looking for a comforting recipe, these buns are guaranteed to impress.

Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the rewarding process of making homemade hot cross buns. Let us know how they turn out and share your favorite variations!

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *