Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Freshly baked hot cross buns make for a delightful treat, especially during special occasions or cozy weekends. Here’s an easy-to-follow, step-by-step recipe to help you make a batch of these warm, spiced buns at home.

Ingredients Cross Buns

Dough

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground allspice
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• ¾ cup (120g) raisins or currants
• Zest of 1 orange

Cross Topping

• ½ cup (65g) all-purpose flour
• 5 tbsp water (add gradually to achieve a paste-like consistency)

Glaze

• 2 tbsp apricot jam
• 1 tbsp water

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: Combine the warm milk and sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the top, stir gently, and leave it for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This means the yeast is activated.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, orange zest, and raisins. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6-8 minutes.

Step 2: Proof the Dough

1. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and allow it to rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Buns

1. Divide and Shape: Punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and shape each into a smooth ball.
2. Arrange on a Baking Tray: Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Cover loosely and allow them to rise again for 30-45 minutes, until puffy.

Step 4: Add the Cross

1. Prepare the Cross Mixture: Mix the flour and water to form a smooth, pipeable paste. Transfer it to a piping bag or a zip-top plastic bag with a small corner snipped off.
2. Pipe the Crosses: Pipe a straight line horizontally and vertically across each bun to form the iconic cross.

Step 5: Bake the Buns

1. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and fragrant. They should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 6: Glaze the Buns

1. Prepare the Glaze: While the buns bake, warm the apricot jam and water in a small saucepan or microwave until smooth.
2. Glaze the Buns: Brush the warm glaze over the buns immediately after they come out of the oven for a shiny, sweet finish.

Step 7: Serve

1. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm with butter or your favorite spread.

Tips for Success

• Sticky dough is okay: The dough should be slightly sticky but still manageable. Avoid over-flouring during kneading.
• Check the yeast: Make sure your yeast is active by testing it in the warm milk. If it doesn’t foam, start over with fresh yeast.
• Rising environment: If your kitchen is cold, place the dough in a slightly warm oven (turned off) to help it rise.

Enjoy the process of making these delicious hot cross buns. They’ll fill your home with a delightful aroma and are sure to impress your family and friends!