Introduction

Hot cross buns are one of the most beloved Easter treats, rich in history and packed with warm spices, dried fruit, and a distinctive cross on top. Traditionally eaten on Good Friday, these sweet buns symbolize the end of Lent and are deeply rooted in both religious and cultural traditions.

From classic spiced buns to modern variations like chocolate chip and gluten-free options, there’s a hot cross bun for everyone. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to bake these delicious, soft, and flavorful buns at home.

Ingredients for Hot Cross Buns

Before we start baking, here’s what you’ll need:

Basic Ingredients:

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
• ¼ cup (60g) butter, melted
• 1 egg
• 1 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, or chopped apricots)

For the Cross:

• ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 5 tablespoons water

For the Glaze:

• 2 tablespoons apricot jam or honey
• 1 tablespoon warm water

Want to experiment? Try adding orange zest or swapping raisins for chocolate chips!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hot Cross Buns

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the yeast by mixing it with warm milk and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.

Step 2: Kneading and Proofing

1. Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shaping and Adding Crosses

1. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll into balls and place them on a lined baking tray.
2. Cover and let them proof again for 30-45 minutes.
3. Mix flour and water to form a paste, then pipe crosses on top.

Step 4: Baking and Glazing

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown.
2. Mix apricot jam or honey with warm water and brush over warm buns for a glossy finish.

Your kitchen will be filled with the warm, sweet aroma of freshly baked hot cross buns!

Variations of Hot Cross Buns

Chocolate Chip Hot Cross Buns

• Swap dried fruit for chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.

Gluten-Free Hot Cross Buns

• Use gluten-free flour and a binding agent like xanthan gum.

Spiced and Fruity Versions

• Add cloves, allspice, and citrus zest for extra flavor.

Tips for the Best Hot Cross Buns

• Use fresh yeast for the best rise.
• Don’t over-knead or the buns will be tough.
• Brush with glaze immediately after baking for a soft, shiny finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy warm with butter or jam.
• Pair with tea, coffee, or warm milk.
• Toast leftovers for an extra crunchy texture.

Nutritional Value of Hot Cross Buns

For a healthier version, use whole wheat flour and reduce sugar.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the second proofing – it’s essential for a light texture.
2. Adding too much flour – this makes the buns dense.
3. Baking at too high a temperature – they’ll dry out quickly.

Conclusion

Hot cross buns are more than just a delicious Easter treat—they’re a symbol of tradition, sharing, and warmth. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with new flavors, homemade hot cross buns are always worth the effort.

FAQs

1. Can I make hot cross buns without yeast?
   Yes, but they will be more like scones. Try using baking powder instead.
2. What is the best way to store leftover buns?
   Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze hot cross buns?
   Yes! Freeze in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months.
4. Why are my hot cross buns too dense?
   You may have over-kneaded or not proofed long enough.
5. Can I make them without dairy or eggs?
   Yes! Use plant-based milk and a flax egg substitute.

Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Hot Cross Buns are soft, spiced, and slightly sweet buns, traditionally enjoyed at Easter. Made with warm spices, raisins, and topped with a signature cross, they’re perfect with butter or jam for a cozy treat

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Whisk or wooden spoon
• Baking sheet
• Piping bag or ziplock bag (for the cross)
• Small saucepan (for glaze)

Ingredients

  

For the Buns:

• 4 cups 500g all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup 50g granulated sugar
• 1 packet 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup 180ml warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
• ¼ cup 60g unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup 75g raisins or currants
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange optional

For the Cross Paste:

• ½ cup 60g all-purpose flour
• 5 tbsp water

For the Glaze:

• 2 tbsp apricot jam or honey
• 1 tbsp warm water

Instructions

 

Prepare the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
• Warm the milk slightly and mix it with melted butter, egg, vanilla, and orange zest.
• Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
• Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Fold in the raisins or currants evenly.

Let the Dough Rise

• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Shape and Proof the Buns

• Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll them into smooth balls.
• Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bun.
• Cover with a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Make the Cross Paste & Pipe

• Mix the flour and water to form a thick paste.
• Transfer it to a piping bag and pipe a cross over each bun.

Bake the Buns

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Glaze and Serve

• Heat the apricot jam or honey with warm water and brush over the buns for a shiny finish.
• Let them cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy warm with butter! 🧈
• Serve with tea or coffee for a classic treat. ☕

Keyword Hot Cross Buns

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