Hot Cross Buns Recipe

If you’re looking to bring a little joy and warmth into your kitchen, nothing quite compares to baking your own Hot Cross Buns Recipe. These fragrant, spiced buns studded with candied peel and sultanas are a timeless treat that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply craving fresh homemade bread with a lovely hint of cinnamon and mixed spice, this recipe delivers soft, fluffy buns with that iconic cross on top and a glossy finish that’s sure to impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating the perfect batch of hot cross buns starts with a handful of straightforward but crucial ingredients. Each one plays its part to build the delightful flavor, texture, and beautiful golden color that hallmark this classic treat.

• 220 ml Milk: This warms up the dough and helps activate the yeast, making the buns light and fluffy.
• 50 g Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the dough for a soft crumb.
• 450 g Strong white bread flour: Provides the necessary gluten strength for chewy, elastic buns.
• 1 tsp Fine salt: Balances sweetness and enhances other flavors.
• 3 tsp Mixed spice: A blend of spices that gives the buns their signature warm aroma.
• 2 tsp Cinnamon: Adds a deeper layer of comforting spice.
• 45 g Caster sugar: Lightens the dough and provides a subtle sweetness.
• 60 g Candied peel: Small bursts of chewy, citrusy flavor throughout the buns.
• 80 g Sultanas: Naturally sweet and juicy, adding delicious texture and contrast.
• 1 Egg (Beaten): Binds the dough and enriches the color of the bun’s crust.
• 2 tbsp Milk: For brushing the tops of the buns to keep them soft during baking.
• 50 g Plain flour: Mixed with water to make the paste for the traditional crosses on top.
• 2 tbsp Apricot jam: Brushed on warm buns for that irresistible shine and sweet finish.

How to Make Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Milk and Butter

Begin by warming your milk until it’s hot but not boiling—this gentle heat helps melt the butter perfectly. Stir the butter into the milk and set aside, allowing the mixture to cool to lukewarm so it’s just right for activating the yeast.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

While the milk cools, mix your flour, salt, yeast, mixed spice, cinnamon, and sugar together in a large bowl. This spice-packed combo brings that iconic Hot Cross Buns flavor to life.

Step 3: Add Candied Peel and Sultanas

Stir in the candied peel and sultanas to the dry mixture, ensuring every bun will be studded with sweet little pockets of fruity goodness.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Once your milk and butter mixture is tepid, pour it into the flour mixture along with the beaten egg. This step brings all the elements together into a dough that’s ready to be kneaded.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Turn the mixture onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and springy. This kneading develops the gluten structure, which gives your buns their lovely texture.

Step 6: First Rise

Place your dough into a clean, oiled bowl and cover it with oiled cling film to prevent drying out. Let it rise in a warm spot for around 2 hours, or until doubled in size. This slow fermentation builds flavor and volume.

Step 7: Shape the Buns

Once risen, divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into neat, tight balls by tucking the sides underneath—it’s a simple trick that results in perfectly smooth buns.

Step 8: Second Rise

Arrange your buns on an oiled baking tray, cover again with cling film, and allow them to rise for another 45 minutes. This final proofing ensures a tender crumb and light texture.

Step 9: Prepare Oven and Brush Buns

Preheat your oven to 180°C fan (200°C conventional). Just before baking, gently brush the tops of the buns with 2 tablespoons of milk. This keeps the crust soft and prevents cracking during baking.

Step 10: Pipe the Crosses

Mix the plain flour with enough water to make a soft paste. Spoon this into a piping bag or a sandwich bag with a small corner snipped off, then carefully pipe crosses onto the buns for that traditional look.

Step 11: Bake and Glaze

Bake your buns for 15-20 minutes until they turn a gorgeous dark golden color. While still warm, brush them with apricot jam to add a shiny, sweet glaze that’s simply irresistible.

How to Serve Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Garnishes

Hot cross buns are lovely as they are, but adding a pat of butter that melts into the warm bun can elevate your experience. Some people enjoy a light dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and a pretty appearance.

Side Dishes

These buns pair wonderfully with a simple cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for an afternoon treat. For a more indulgent brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of clotted cream for a delightful contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider slicing buns horizontally and making mini sandwiches with cream cheese and jam for a playful twist. They also make fantastic French toast when dipped in egg and grilled, adding a new dimension to this classic recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover hot cross buns in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their soft texture while preventing them from drying out.

Freezing

These buns freeze beautifully. Simply wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months and make a perfect quick treat whenever you need.

Reheating

To bring back their fresh-baked charm, thaw frozen buns at room temperature and warm them in a low oven or microwave with a damp paper towel to keep them moist and soft.

FAQs

Can I make Hot Cross Buns Recipe without candied peel?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of candied peel, you can either omit it or substitute with extra sultanas, raisins, or even dried cranberries for a different but equally delicious texture and sweetness.

What is the purpose of the cross on hot cross buns?

The cross traditionally symbolizes the crucifixion and is a classic feature of hot cross buns. Pipin the cross with a flour paste before baking creates a shadow that contrasts beautifully with the golden bun.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should roughly double in size during rising. A good test is to gently press a fingertip into the dough; if the indentation springs back slowly but remains visible, it’s ready for the next step.

Can I make hot cross buns vegan?

With some ingredient swaps, yes! Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives, egg replacers, and ensure your candied peel and sultanas don’t contain animal products to keep this recipe vegan-friendly.

Why do I need to brush the buns with milk before baking?

Brushing the buns with milk helps keep the tops soft and prevents them from drying out or cracking during baking, giving your hot cross buns their characteristic tender crust.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about baking hot cross buns from scratch, filling your kitchen with those warm, spicy aromas and creating a batch of golden, soft buns that everyone will adore. This Hot Cross Buns Recipe is a wonderful companion for cozy mornings or holiday celebrations, and once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. So why not give it a go and enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade baking?

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