Hot Cross Buns

The smell of Hot Cross Buns baking in the oven is like a hug for your senses, filling the house with a cozy, warm aroma that just beckons you to dig in. Soft, slightly sweet, and lightly spiced, these buns are topped with a simple cross that adds the perfect touch of elegance and tradition. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven on Easter morning or sharing them with loved ones, these Hot Cross Buns are a timeless classic that never fails to bring joy. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them year-round. They’re perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as a thoughtful gift!

Why You’ll Love Hot Cross Buns

• Classic Comfort: With their spiced, sweet dough and soft texture, these buns offer that nostalgic, comforting taste we all crave.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Traditionally made for Good Friday, they’re the ideal treat for Easter or any time you’re in the mood for something extra special.
• Easy to Make: With a little patience for the dough to rise, this recipe is surprisingly simple. No need to be intimidated—it’s easier than you think!
• Versatile: Enjoy them plain, spread with butter, or even toasted with jam for a delightful breakfast or snack.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the buns, providing the perfect soft texture.
• Active dry yeast: This little packet of magic will make the buns rise beautifully, giving them that pillowy soft texture.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.
• Ground cinnamon: The warm spice that makes these buns so comforting.
• Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, aromatic depth to the flavor.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
• Butter: Gives the buns a rich, tender crumb.
• Milk: Adds moisture to the dough and contributes to that soft texture.
• Egg: Helps bind the dough and adds richness.
• Currants or raisins: The traditional dried fruits that bring sweetness and chewy texture to the buns.
• Orange zest: For a hint of citrus that brightens up the flavor.

For the Cross:

• All-purpose flour: To make a simple paste for the cross.
• Water: To make the paste smooth and pipeable.
• Powdered sugar: For a sweet finish on the cross.

For the Glaze:

• Apricot jam or honey: To brush over the buns, giving them a shiny, sweet finish that adds a touch of sweetness.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Let’s get those buns baking, shall we? These steps will guide you to bun perfection:

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (around 110°F/45°C) with a tablespoon of sugar and the active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step helps activate the yeast.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, softened butter, egg, and orange zest. Mix until it forms a sticky dough.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You might need to add a little more flour if it’s too sticky, but don’t add too much or the buns will be dense.

Step 4: Add the Currants/Raisins

Once the dough is kneaded, gently fold in the currants or raisins. Knead just until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: First Rise

Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Buns

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and divide it into 12 even portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and arrange them on a greased baking sheet, leaving a little space between each bun. They will expand as they bake.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the buns loosely with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let them rise again for about 30 minutes, or until they are puffy and nearly doubled in size.

Step 8: Make the Cross Paste

While the buns are rising, prepare the cross paste. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup flour with 2–3 tablespoons of water and mix until it forms a thick paste. Transfer the paste to a piping bag or a plastic sandwich bag with the tip cut off.

Step 9: Bake the Buns

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the buns have risen, pipe the cross paste in a cross shape over the top of each bun. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the buns are golden brown.

Step 10: Glaze the Buns

While the buns are baking, heat the apricot jam or honey in a small saucepan over low heat until it melts. As soon as the buns are out of the oven, brush the glaze over the tops while they’re still warm. This gives the buns a beautiful shine and a touch of sweetness.

Step 11: Cool & Serve

Let the buns cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, but they’re still delicious at room temperature!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 220
Total Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 100mg
Total Carbohydrate: 38g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 1.5 hours
Bake Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

How to Serve Hot Cross Buns

• With Butter: A warm, buttered Hot Cross Bun is perfection. The butter melts right into the soft bun, making it irresistible.
• With Jam or Honey: Spread your favorite jam or honey for an extra burst of sweetness.
• As a Brunch Dish: Serve them alongside other breakfast or brunch favorites like eggs, bacon, or fresh fruit.
• As a Snack: These are perfect for a mid-afternoon snack, especially with a cup of tea or coffee.

Additional Tips

• Add-ins: You can also add some chopped candied ginger or mixed dried fruit for a twist on the classic recipe.
• Storage: These buns are best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly and storing in the freezer.
• Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or toast them lightly.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these buns without raisins or currants?
A1: Yes! You can leave out the raisins or currants, or you can substitute them with other dried fruits, like cranberries or sultanas.

Q2: Can I freeze Hot Cross Buns?
A2: Absolutely! Once they’ve cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, let them thaw at room temperature and then warm them in the oven.

Q3: Can I use a bread machine to make the dough?
A3: Yes, you can use a bread machine for the dough. Simply add the ingredients to the bread machine in the order recommended by the manufacturer and use the dough setting.

Q4: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A4: Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time! After the first rise, cover the dough and refrigerate it overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature before shaping the buns and continuing with the recipe.

Q5: How do I make the buns less sweet?
A5: You can reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and glaze to suit your preference, though the sweetness does contribute to the signature flavor of Hot Cross Buns.

Q6: Can I make the buns without the cross on top?
A6: Of course! The cross is traditional but optional. You can skip it or replace it with a dusting of powdered sugar after the buns are baked.

Q7: What can I use instead of orange zest?
A7: If you don’t have orange zest, you can substitute it with lemon zest or even a small amount of vanilla extract.

Q8: Can I make these buns dairy-free?
A8: Yes! You can replace the milk with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter substitute.

Q9: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A9: Yes! You can use instant yeast, but you won’t need to proof it in warm water. Simply add it directly to the dry ingredients and proceed with the recipe.

Q10: How can I make my buns extra soft?
A10: Make sure you don’t overbake them and let the dough rise fully for the best texture. Adding a little extra butter or milk to the dough can also help keep them soft.

Conclusion

There’s no better way to celebrate Easter or any occasion than with a batch of warm, aromatic Hot Cross Buns. Soft, spiced, and topped with a shiny glaze, they’re the perfect combination of comfort and tradition. Whether you enjoy them with butter, jam, or just as they are, they’re guaranteed to bring a little sweetness into your day. Happy baking!

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