Traditional Hot Cross Buns

There’s something undeniably delightful about the aroma of freshly baked Traditional Hot Cross Buns wafting through your home. The warm, spiced sweetness of these buns, dotted with currants and topped with a glossy glaze, promises a treat that feels like a hug in pastry form. Just imagine biting into one: soft, fluffy, and slightly sticky, they’re the perfect blend of texture and flavor.

These buns aren’t just a tasty snack they carry a rich history that stretches back centuries. Traditionally enjoyed during Easter, they evoke memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. Nothing says “springtime” quite like pulling apart a warm bun while sharing laughter and stories with loved ones around the table.

I still remember the first time I baked these buns. My friend’s face lit up when she took her first bite it was pure joy wrapped in dough.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your buns opt for unbleached flour for better flavor.
• Active Dry Yeast: Make sure it’s fresh nothing ruins a bun faster than sluggish yeast.
• Milk: Warmed milk helps activate the yeast and adds richness to the dough.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter for control over the saltiness it gives a lovely richness.
• Sugar: White granulated sugar will sweeten your buns perfectly don’t be shy
• Mixed Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg): A delightful combination that brings warmth and depth to each bite.
• Currants or Raisins: They add sweetness and little bursts of flavor throughout your bun.
• Eggs: For binding and adding moisture use room temperature eggs for best results.
• Orange Zest: A hint of citrus elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
• Icing Sugar: For glazing on top of your hot cross buns it adds that final touch

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Create the Dough: Begin by warming your milk until it’s lukewarm think cozy bathwater not boiling Combine it with active dry yeast in a bowl. Let it sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.

Add Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix all-purpose flour, sugar, mixed spices, and salt together. Make a well in the center and pour in your yeast mixture along with melted butter and eggs.

Knead Away: Once combined, turn your dough onto a floured surface and knead vigorously for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You want it to feel like a soft pillow.

First Rise: Place your dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled about 1-1.5 hours. Patience is key here

Add Currants: Punch down your dough gently to release air bubbles then fold in currants or raisins evenly throughout. This step is where those sweet surprises come from

Shape Your Buns: Divide dough into equal pieces (about 12) and shape them into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking tray close together to encourage rising again proofing adds fluffiness

Bake & Glaze: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top. As soon as they’re out of the oven, brush on icing sugar glaze while they’re still warm.

Your home will smell like a bakery it’s almost unfair how amazing this part is

And voilà You’ve created Traditional Hot Cross Buns that are sure to impress at any gathering or simply delight yourself at breakfast.

Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or toasted with some butter slathered on top, these buns create an experience that’s hard to beat Happy baking

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing dry ingredients first, then combine with wet ingredients and knead the dough. Let it rise twice for fluffy buns. This order prevents mishaps and ensures even distribution of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out raisins for chocolate chips or add citrus zest for extra zing. Experimenting with spices like nutmeg can elevate your buns to gourmet status

Storing & Reheating

Store your Traditional Hot Cross Buns in an airtight container at room temperature. For reheating, pop them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

I remember the first time I made these buns my friends couldn’t stop raving about how soft they were, and I proudly told them my secret was letting the dough rest long enough

FAQ

What makes Traditional Hot Cross Buns special?

The unique combination of spices and dried fruits gives them a distinctive flavor profile.

Can I freeze my Hot Cross Buns?

Yes, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months without compromising quality.

How do I achieve a shiny glaze on my buns?

Brush with a mixture of milk and sugar before baking for that enticing glossy finish.

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Traditional Hot Cross Buns

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• Author: Lena
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of baking Traditional Hot Cross Buns, perfect for Easter or any festive gathering. These soft, fluffy buns, infused with warm spices and studded with currants, create an irresistible aroma that fills your home. Topped with a glossy glaze, they are not just a treat but a cherished memory waiting to be made around the table. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted with butter, these buns bring comfort and joy to every bite.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 cup currants or raisins
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• Zest of 1 orange
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup icing sugar (for glaze)

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Instructions

1. Warm the milk until lukewarm and mix with yeast in a bowl. Let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In another bowl, combine flour, sugar, spices, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs.
3. Mix until combined and knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled.
5. Punch down the dough and fold in currants/raisins evenly.
6. Divide into about 12 equal pieces and shape into balls. Place on parchment-lined baking tray close together.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
8. Brush warm buns with icing sugar glaze before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bun (70g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 40mg