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HOT CROSS BUNS

Sana Umer
Hot Cross Buns are soft, spiced, and slightly sweet yeast rolls, traditionally enjoyed during Easter. These fluffy buns are filled with warm spices, raisins, and topped with a signature cross. They’re lightly glazed for a shiny, irresistible finish!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Rise Time: 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Course Breakfast
Cuisine British
Servings 12 buns
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup warm milk 110°F/45°C
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup raisins or currants

For the Cross:

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup water adjust for thick paste consistency

For the Glaze:

  • ¼ cup honey or apricot jam warmed

Instructions
 

Step No.1: Activate the Yeast

  • In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Step No.2: Prepare the Dough

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

Step No.3: Knead the Dough

  • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add the raisins while kneading.

Step No.4: First Rise

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

Step No.5: Shape the Buns

  • Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and arrange them in a greased baking dish.

Step No.6: Second Rise

  • Cover and let the buns rise for another 30-45 minutes, until puffy.

Step No.7: Make the Cross Paste

  • Mix flour and water into a thick paste. Pipe a cross onto each bun using a piping bag or zip-top bag with a small cut at the tip.

Step No.8: Bake the Buns

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

Step No.9: Glaze the Buns

  • Brush warm buns with honey or apricot jam glaze for a shiny finish.

Notes

  • Soft Buns: Ensure proper kneading and rising time for a light, fluffy texture.
  • Glazing Tip: For extra shine, glaze twice – once fresh out of the oven and again after cooling slightly.
  • Flavor Boost: Add orange zest or chocolate chips for a twist!
  • Chocolate Hot Cross Buns: Swap raisins for chocolate chips.
  • Spiced Orange Buns: Add 1 teaspoon orange zest and ¼ teaspoon ground ginger.
  • Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, dairy-free butter, and a flaxseed egg.
Keyword Easter buns, homemade hot cross buns, Hot cross buns, spiced buns, traditional buns