Introduction

Hot Cross Buns are more than just a delicious treat; they are a symbol of Easter and a beloved tradition in many households around the world. With their signature cross marking the top, these spiced sweet buns have been enjoyed for centuries, particularly during the Easter season. Traditionally eaten on Good Friday, Hot Cross Buns are believed to carry religious significance, with the cross representing the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the spices symbolizing the spices used to embalm him.

But you don’t have to be religious to enjoy Hot Cross Buns. Their warm, comforting flavor, combined with the sweet and tangy notes from currants and mixed peel, make them a delightful treat that everyone can appreciate. Whether you’re baking them as part of an Easter tradition or just because you love a good spiced bun, this recipe will guide you through creating perfect, soft, and fluffy Hot Cross Buns that will fill your home with the comforting aroma of cinnamon, allspice, and freshly baked bread.

Why Make These Traditional Hot Cross Buns?

If you’ve never made Hot Cross Buns before, you might wonder what makes them so special compared to other sweet buns or rolls. Here are a few reasons why you should give this traditional Easter recipe a try:

  1. Rich in Tradition: Hot Cross Buns carry a deep historical and cultural significance. Baking them allows you to participate in a time-honored tradition that has been passed down through generations.
  2. Perfect for Celebrations: These buns are synonymous with Easter, making them a perfect addition to your holiday spread. Their sweet and spicy flavor profile complements other Easter dishes beautifully.
  3. Homemade Goodness: Store-bought buns can never compare to the taste and texture of homemade ones. When you make them yourself, you can control the quality of ingredients, adjust the flavors to your liking, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something from scratch.
  4. Versatile and Adaptable: While this recipe sticks to tradition, Hot Cross Buns can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer raisins over currants, want to add a citrusy twist with extra peel, or make them gluten-free, the possibilities are endless.
  5. Comforting Flavor: The combination of warm spices, sweet fruit, and soft dough is incredibly comforting. These buns are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack with a cup of tea.

 

Never-Fail Scalloped Potatoes

 Hot Cross Buns Ingredients List

To make a batch of 12 delicious Hot Cross Buns, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 packet (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F to 115°F)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup currants or raisins
  • 1/4 cup mixed peel
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
  • Icing for cross:
    • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
    • 2 tablespoons milk

 Hot Cross Buns  Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of the flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 packet of active dry yeast, 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice. Stir these ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in 1 cup of warm milk (between 110°F and 115°F), ensuring it’s warm enough to activate the yeast but not so hot that it kills it. Add 2 large eggs and 1/4 cup of melted butter. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes smooth and well-combined.
  3. Incorporate Fruits: Stir in 1/2 cup of currants or raisins and 1/4 cup of mixed peel. These ingredients will add sweet and tangy notes to your buns, making them truly irresistible.
  4. Form the Dough: Gradually add the remaining flour to the mixture, about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring after each addition. Continue adding flour until the dough forms a soft, slightly sticky ball.

Step 2: Knead and Rise

  1. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for 6-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour, but be careful not to overdo it—Hot Cross Buns should be soft and fluffy, not dense.
  2. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to grease the top. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and place it in a warm, draft-free area. Let the dough rise for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Buns

  1. Divide the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
  2. Shape the Buns: Shape each piece into a smooth ball by rolling it between your palms. Place the balls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, arranging them so that they touch slightly. This will help them rise evenly and create that classic pull-apart effect.
  3. Second Rise: Cover the pan with a damp cloth and let the buns rise again in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.

Step 4: Bake the Buns

  1. Preheat the Oven: While the buns are rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Egg Wash: Before baking, brush the tops of the buns with a lightly beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color and a slight sheen once baked.
  3. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. The buns should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  4. Cool: Remove the buns from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before icing.

Step 5: Ice the Crosses

  1. Prepare the Icing: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk to create a thick, smooth icing. The icing should be thick enough to hold its shape when piped, but still fluid enough to pipe easily.
  2. Pipe the Crosses: Once the buns have cooled, spoon the icing into a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with the tip cut off. Pipe a cross on the top of each bun, following the indentation created during baking.
  3. Serve: Your Hot Cross Buns are now ready to serve! Enjoy them fresh, or toast them lightly before eating.

 Hot Cross Buns Tips and Substitutions

Making Hot Cross Buns can be a rewarding experience, but there are a few tips and substitutions that can make the process even easier and more customizable:

  1. Use Bread Flour: For a chewier texture, you can substitute all-purpose flour with bread flour. Bread flour has a higher protein content, which helps develop more gluten and results in a sturdier, chewier bun.
  2. Make It Gluten-Free: If you need to make a gluten-free version, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for bread baking. Add 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum if your flour blend doesn’t already contain it.
  3. Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for an extra layer of flavor.
  4. Fruity Variations: If you’re not a fan of currants or mixed peel, you can use other dried fruits such as sultanas, dried cranberries, or chopped dried apricots. For a citrusy twist, add some orange or lemon zest to the dough.
  5. Sugar Substitutes: If you prefer a less sugary bun, you can reduce the sugar in the dough by half. For a healthier alternative, substitute the sugar with honey or maple syrup, keeping in mind that this might slightly alter the texture.
  6. Storing Leftovers: Hot Cross Buns are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the buns (without icing) for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before icing and serving.

Recipe Variations

Hot Cross Buns are incredibly versatile, and you can easily adapt the recipe to suit different occasions or preferences:

  1. Chocolate Chip Hot Cross Buns: Replace the currants and mixed peel with chocolate chips for a sweeter, more indulgent version that’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
  2. Cranberry and White Chocolate Hot Cross Buns: For a festive twist, use dried cranberries and white chocolate chips instead of the traditional currants and peel. These are perfect for Christmas or any winter holiday.
  3. Savory Hot Cross Buns: For a savory variation, omit the sugar and spices, and add grated cheese, chopped herbs, and a pinch of salt to the dough. These make a great accompaniment to soups and stews.
  4. Vegan Hot Cross Buns: Substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative (such as almond, soy, or oat milk), use a vegan butter substitute, and replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg).

Nutritional Information

Each of these delicious Hot Cross Buns contains approximately 220 kcal per serving. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutritional information:

  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 8g

These buns are a source of energy, thanks to the carbohydrates, and they also provide some protein and fiber. If you’re looking to make them a bit healthier, consider reducing the sugar content or using whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Hot Cross Buns are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored and served in various ways:

  • Serving: Serve Hot Cross Buns warm or at room temperature. They are delicious as they are, but you can also toast them lightly and spread with butter for an extra indulgent treat. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack.
  • Storing: Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh for longer, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the buns at room temperature or reheat them in the oven.
  • Reheating: To reheat, place the buns in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through. If the buns are frozen, thaw them first before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Hot Cross Buns ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before, allow it to rise, then shape the buns and place them in the baking pan. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let the buns come to room temperature and rise again before baking as directed.

Q: Why didn’t my Hot Cross Buns rise properly?

A: There are a few reasons this might happen. Ensure that your yeast is fresh and that the milk was at the right temperature when added to the dough. If the milk is too hot, it can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising. Also, make sure the dough is placed in a warm, draft-free area to rise.

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

A: Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. If using instant yeast, you can skip the step of dissolving it in warm milk and add it directly to the dry ingredients. The rise times may also be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on the dough.

Q: How can I make the icing thicker or thinner?

A: To make the icing thicker, add more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency. To thin the icing, add more milk a teaspoon at a time.

Q: What can I use instead of mixed peel?

A: If you don’t have mixed peel or don’t like its taste, you can substitute it with other dried fruits such as chopped apricots, dates, or dried cranberries. For a citrusy flavor, you can also use fresh orange or lemon zest.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed making these Hot Cross Buns, here are some related recipes that you might also love:

  1. Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, fluffy, and loaded with cinnamon sugar, these rolls are perfect for breakfast or brunch.
  2. Banana Bread: A moist and flavorful loaf that’s a great way to use up overripe bananas.
  3. Scones: A classic British treat, perfect for afternoon tea. Try them plain, or add fruit or chocolate chips for a twist.
  4. Challah Bread: A beautifully braided bread that’s slightly sweet and perfect for special occasions.
  5. Spiced Apple Cake: A moist and fragrant cake packed with chunks of apple and warm spices.

Conclusion

Hot Cross Buns are a delightful and traditional treat that adds a special touch to any Easter celebration. With this recipe, you’ll be able to bake a batch of soft, flavorful buns that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you stick to the classic version or try out one of the suggested variations, these buns are a wonderful way to celebrate the season and create lasting memories.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start baking! And don’t forget to explore more recipes on our website for more delicious and inspiring ideas. Happy baking!