hot cross buns – cookingfoodss

Hot Cross Buns

Soft, Spiced, and Sweet with a Signature Cross

Hot Cross Buns are a classic spiced sweet bun, traditionally enjoyed during Easter. Their soft, slightly sweet interior, dotted with raisins or currants, and the iconic cross on top make them irresistible. Homemade hot cross buns are far superior to store-bought, with a tender crumb, warm spices, and a sticky, shiny glaze.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

500 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
75 g (⅓ cup) sugar
1 tsp salt
2 tsp mixed spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice)
7 g (2 tsp) instant yeast
300 ml (1¼ cups) warm milk
75 g (5 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
150 g (1 cup) raisins or currants
Zest of 1 orange (optional)

For the Cross:**

50 g (¼ cup) plain flour
3–4 tbsp water

For the Glaze:

2 tbsp apricot jam or honey, warmed

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and mixed spice.
In a separate bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and egg. Let it sit 5 minutes until slightly frothy.
Add the wet mixture and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.

2. Knead the Dough

Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Fold in the raisins or currants and orange zest gently.

3. First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Buns

Punch down the dough and divide it into 12–16 equal portions.
Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Space them slightly apart as they will expand.

5. Second Rise

Cover the buns with a towel and let them rise for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

6. Make the Cross

Mix plain flour with enough water to make a thick, pipeable paste.
Pipe a cross over the top of each bun.

7. Bake

Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F).
Bake buns for 15–20 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.

8. Glaze

While the buns are still warm, brush with apricot jam or honey for a shiny, sticky finish.

9. Serve

Enjoy warm or at room temperature, sliced or whole. Perfect with butter or jam.

Tips for Perfect Hot Cross Buns

Soft dough: Don’t over-flour; dough should remain slightly sticky.
Rising: Ensure a warm, draft-free spot for proofing to help the dough rise properly.
Spices: Adjust to taste—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves are classic.
Add-ins: Try chopped dried apricots, sultanas, or even chocolate chips for a twist.

Variations

Mini Hot Cross Buns: Make smaller buns for bite-sized treats.
Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with a gluten-free blend and adjust liquid as needed.
Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use plant-based milk.

Storage

Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze fully cooled buns for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with butter or cream cheese for breakfast
Pair with tea or coffee for a cozy snack
Great for gifting during Easter celebrations

Final Thoughts

Homemade Hot Cross Buns are soft, fragrant, and comforting. The combination of warm spices, plump dried fruits, and a shiny, sweet glaze makes them a timeless favorite. Making them at home allows you to enjoy them fresh, warm, and perfectly customizable to your taste.