Description
Classic British Hot Cross Buns—soft, spiced sweet buns studded with raisins and topped with traditional flour crosses and a glossy apricot glaze. Perfect for Easter or any time you crave a cozy, fragrant treat.
Ingredients
For the buns:
- 1 cup warm whole milk (110°F)
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup raisins or currants
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
For the crosses:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 5–6 tablespoons water (as needed)
For the glaze:
- ¼ cup apricot jam or honey
Instructions
- Activate yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, which indicates the yeast is active.
- Mix dry ingredients and form dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, remaining sugar, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and nutmeg. Add softened butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Stir in raisins and orange zest if using.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 5–6 minutes. Then place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape and second rise: Punch down the risen dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
- Prepare oven and crosses: Preheat oven to 375°F. Mix flour and water to make a thick paste for the crosses. Transfer to a piping bag or zip-top bag with a small tip cut off. Pipe a cross over each bun.
- Bake the buns: Bake the buns for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Glaze the buns: Warm apricot jam or honey and brush it over the tops of the warm buns for a shiny finish. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Leftover buns lightly toasted and served with butter make a delicious snack.
