Description
Indulge in the classic flavors of Easter with these Traditional Hot Cross Buns. These spiced fruit buns are perfect for celebrating the holiday season and are a beloved British tradition. Soft, sweet, and aromatic, they are a delightful treat to share with family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1¼ cups warm milk (110°F / 45°C)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup currants or raisins
- ½ cup chopped mixed candied peel
Cross Paste:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 6 tablespoons water
Glaze:
- ¼ cup apricot jam
Instructions
- Dough Preparation: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir in warm milk, melted butter, and egg until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, then knead in currants and candied peel.
- Rising: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour. Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape each into a ball and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet, close but not touching.
- Second Rise: Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
- Cross Paste & Baking: For the crosses, mix ½ cup flour with 6 tablespoons water to form a thick paste; transfer to a piping bag and pipe a cross over each bun. Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 18–20 minutes or until golden.
- Glazing: Warm apricot jam and brush over buns for a glossy finish.
Notes
- Best enjoyed fresh with butter.
- You can substitute dried cranberries or chopped dates for the currants.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus rising time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bread, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British, Easter Tradition
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 49 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
