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
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. ☕
