Go Back
–+ servings
Patricia Krouse

Hot Cross Buns

Hot cross buns are a delightful celebration of flavors and tradition, featuring a comforting mix of spices and dried fruits that makes them perfect for any festive occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 12 buns
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Festive, Traditional
Calories: 190
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Using high-quality flour can make a notable difference in texture.
  • 1/4 cup sugar You can replace with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
  • 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast Ensure yeast is active by testing it in warm milk.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F) Use a kitchen thermometer to check milk temperature.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup mixed dried fruit (currants and raisins)
  • 1/4 cup candied citrus peel
For the cross
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Mixed with water to make a paste.
  • 1 cup water Used to make a paste for piping crosses.
For the glaze
  • 1/4 cup apricot jam Warm to brush over buns for a glossy finish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Combine flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and spices in a large bowl.
  2. In a separate bowl, warm the milk slightly and mix it with melted butter and eggs until well blended.
  3. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
  4. Knead in the dried fruit and candied peel until evenly distributed.
  5. Let it rise in a warm environment for about an hour or until it has doubled in size.
Baking
  1. Shape the dough into individual buns and arrange them on a baking tray.
  2. For the cross, mix flour with enough water to make a paste and pipe crosses on each bun's surface.
  3. Allow the buns to rise again for about 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Once baked, warm the apricot jam and brush it over the buns for a lovely shine.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 190kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 4gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5g

Notes

Hot cross buns can be enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted with butter. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!