Description
These soft, fluffy Hot Cross Buns are a classic treat, perfect for Easter or any special occasion. With their sweet, spiced flavor and signature cross on top, they’re deliciously comforting straight out of the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup currants or raisins
- 1 egg yolk (for glaze)
- 1 tbsp milk (for glaze)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk, water, and butter until warm (but not hot). Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture.
- Add the eggs and stir to form a dough. Knead until smooth (about 8-10 minutes). Add the currants or raisins, and knead to incorporate.
- Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch the dough down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each into a ball and place on a greased baking tray.
- Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until doubled.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the egg yolk with 1 tbsp milk to make the glaze. Brush over the buns.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let the buns cool slightly. Optional: Drizzle with icing for the signature cross, or use icing to form the cross after baking.
Notes
- Hot Cross Buns are best served warm with butter.
- Feel free to swap the currants or raisins with other dried fruits like sultanas or cranberries.
- These buns freeze well; just reheat them before serving!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (not including rising time)
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Baked Goods / Breakfast / Easter
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British