Introduction

Hot Cross Buns are a beloved Easter treat that brings back nostalgic memories for many. These soft, spiced buns with their signature cross on top are a symbol of the holiday season. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack, hot cross buns are a delightful indulgence that everyone can enjoy. In this recipe guide, I’ll share my personal tips and tricks for making the perfect batch of hot cross buns that are sure to impress your family and friends. So, let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I make these hot cross buns every Easter, and my family goes crazy for them! The warm spices combined with the soft and fluffy texture make these buns truly irresistible. Plus, the aroma that fills the house while they’re baking is simply divine. Trust me, once you try these homemade hot cross buns, you’ll never go back to store-bought ones again!

Ingredients

To make these delicious hot cross buns, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup currants or raisins
• 1 egg, beaten
• For the cross: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour + 4 tablespoons water

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding a handful of chopped nuts or dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture. You can also substitute the currants or raisins with chopped dried apricots or chocolate chips for a delicious twist!

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.

2. In a small saucepan, heat the milk until warm but not boiling. Add the melted butter to the warm milk and stir to combine.

3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the milk mixture. Add the beaten egg and currants or raisins. Stir everything together until a sticky dough forms.

4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.

7. Place the dough balls on a greased baking sheet, leaving some space between each bun. Cover them with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In the meantime, prepare the cross mixture by combining the all-purpose flour and water in a small bowl. Mix until you have a smooth paste.

9. Transfer the cross mixture to a piping bag or a plastic bag with a small corner snipped off. Pipe a cross on top of each bun.

10. Bake the hot cross buns in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.

11. While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons of warm water. Stir until the sugar dissolves.

12. As soon as the hot cross buns come out of the oven, brush them with the glaze to give them a beautiful shine.

13. Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature with a slather of butter. They also taste great toasted!

Notes

These hot cross buns are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Though honestly, in my house, they never last more than a day!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few variations you can try:

1. Chocolate Chip Hot Cross Buns: Swap the currants or raisins with chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.

2. Orange Zest Hot Cross Buns: Add the zest of one orange to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor.

3. Apple Cinnamon Hot Cross Buns: Replace the currants or raisins with finely chopped apples and add an extra teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dough.

Remember, baking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you!

Pro Tips

Here are a few pro tips to ensure your hot cross buns turn out perfectly:

1. Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If it doesn’t foam when mixed with warm milk, it’s time to get a new batch.

2. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. This will help develop the gluten, giving the buns a light and fluffy texture.

3. When piping the crosses on top of the buns, make sure the paste is thick enough to hold its shape but still easy to pipe.

4. Don’t skip the glaze! It adds a beautiful shine to the hot cross buns and enhances their flavor.

5. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. Add a bit more cinnamon or nutmeg if you like a stronger flavor.

FAQ

Q: Can I freeze the hot cross buns?

A: Absolutely! Once the buns have cooled completely, you can freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. Just thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the toaster when you’re ready to enjoy.

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

A: Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly denser.

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to start baking your own hot cross buns. Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and enjoy the process. Trust me, the smell of these buns baking in your kitchen will make it all worthwhile. Happy baking!