Desserts > Holiday & Seasonal Desserts > Easter Desserts Recipes > Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Classic Hot Cross Buns

Enjoy warm, spiced Hot Cross Buns this Easter. This recipe creates soft, flavorful buns with a traditional cross on top.

Prep Time
30 minutes (plus proving time)
Cook Time
20-25 minutes
Servings
12 buns
Ingredients
  • 500 g Strong white bread flour
  • 2 tsp Mixed spice
  • 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
  • 7 g Dried active yeast
  • 50 g Caster sugar
  • 0.5 tsp Salt
  • 50 g Butter, melted
  • 300 ml Milk, lukewarm
  • 1 large Egg, lightly beaten
  • 75 g Sultanas
  • 75 g Currants
  • 50 g Mixed peel
  • 75 g Plain flour
  • 5-6 tbsp Water
  • 2 tbsp Apricot jam
  • 1 tbsp Water

Making the Dough

First, in a large bowl, mix together the flour, mixed spice, cinnamon, yeast, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.

Add the melted butter, lukewarm milk, and egg to the well. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Adding the Fruit

Once the dough has doubled, punch it down to release the air. Knead in the sultanas, currants, and mixed peel until evenly distributed.

Shaping the Buns

Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball. Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bun.

Cover the buns with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until nearly doubled in size.

Making the Crosses

While the buns are proving, prepare the crosses. In a small bowl, mix together the flour and water until a smooth paste forms. Spoon the paste into a piping bag or a small plastic bag with a corner snipped off.

Pipe a cross on top of each bun.

Baking the Buns

Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan/Gas Mark 6). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Glazing the Buns

While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, heat the apricot jam and water over low heat until melted and smooth. Strain the glaze through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.

As soon as the buns come out of the oven, brush them generously with the glaze. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Please note that these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.

  • Calories: Approximately 300-350 kcal
  • Protein: 6-8g
  • Carbohydrates: 50-60g (including sugars)
  • Fat: 8-12g

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

Hot cross buns are a treat and are best enjoyed in moderation. Consider the sugar content and the overall balance of your diet.

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FAQ

  • Can I make these ahead of time?

    Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, shape the buns and continue with the recipe.
  • Can I freeze these buns?

    Yes, you can freeze the baked buns. Let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and freezing. To reheat, thaw completely and warm in the oven.
  • What if I don't have mixed peel?

    You can substitute it with candied citrus peel or leave it out altogether.