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Hot Cross Buns

Homemade Hot Cross Buns That Are Irresistibly Soft and Fluffy

These Hot Cross Buns are irresistibly soft and fluffy, perfect for breakfast or any cozy gathering.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 22 minutes
Servings: 12 buns
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Traditional
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups All-Purpose Flour Can use bread flour for a chewier texture.
  • 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Reduce if opting for sweeter fillings.
  • 1 packet Active Dry Yeast Ensure it’s fresh for optimal rising.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Feel free to add a pinch of allspice.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Can be omitted if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Don’t skip it for best results.
  • 1 cup Warm Milk Use dairy or non-dairy for lactose-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Melted Butter Substitute with vegetable oil for dairy-free.
  • 2 large Eggs Vegan alternative can be flax egg.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Optional for simpler flavor.
  • Orange Zest Optional for brightening taste.
  • 1 cup Raisins or Currants Can swap with chocolate chips or cranberries.
For the Cross
  • Flour & Water Paste Essential for creating the iconic cross.
For the Glaze
  • 1/4 cup Apricot Jam Honey or maple syrup can be alternatives.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish
  • Saucepan
  • piping bag

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Activate the Yeast: Combine 1/2 cup warm milk, 1 packet active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together 4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon salt.
  3. Combine Ingredients for Dough: Pour the yeast mixture into the well of dry ingredients along with 1/4 cup melted butter, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the Dough: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, incorporating 1 cup raisins last.
  5. First Rise: Form dough into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled.
  6. Shape the Buns: Punch down the dough, divide into 12 pieces, shape each into a ball, place in a greased dish, cover, and let rise for 30–40 minutes.
  7. Pipe the Crosses: Mix 1/4 cup flour with enough water to create a thick paste. Pipe a cross over each bun.
  8. Bake the Buns: Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake buns for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Glaze and Serve: Warm 1/4 cup apricot jam with 1 tablespoon water, brush over buns, and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bunCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 4gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 29mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 115mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 270IUCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

These Hot Cross Buns are perfect for Easter celebrations and can be made ahead of time.

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