Name: Traditional Hot Cross Buns
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 cup dried currants or raisins; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 2 large eggs; For the cross: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup water; For the glaze: 2 tablespoons apricot jam, 1 tablespoon water

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Traditional Hot Cross Buns: A Timeless Easter Treat ✝️🍞🌟

1. Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked traditional hot cross buns wafting through your kitchen, especially during the Easter season. These spiced, slightly sweet buns, adorned with a signature cross, are a beloved classic. The anticipation of biting into a warm, fragrant bun is a feeling that many cherish. Whether you call them spiced hot cross buns, classic hot cross buns, or simply plan to make some homemade hot cross buns, this recipe ensures a delightful treat. Maybe you’re looking for something to pair with your Easter brunch? If so, check out these other ideas for a perfect breakfast here. This guide will walk you through creating perfect traditional hot cross buns from scratch, ensuring a soft, flavorful, and utterly irresistible result.

Freshly baked traditional hot cross buns with icing crosses on a rustic table.

2. Understanding the Basics of Hot Cross Buns

Before diving into the recipe, let’s understand what makes traditional hot cross buns so special. The charm of these buns lies not only in their taste but also in their history and symbolism. The combination of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, along with the sweetness from dried fruits, creates a comforting flavor profile that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. The cross on top, traditionally made with a flour paste, symbolizes the crucifixion and is a nod to the bun’s religious significance. The glaze on top is key, and you can learn more about glazes on websites like Sally’s Baking Addiction. Knowing these elements helps appreciate the art of making classic hot cross buns.

3. Ingredients for Perfect Traditional Hot Cross Buns

Here’s what you’ll need to bake the ultimate traditional hot cross buns. Make sure you have all your ingredients prepped and measured for a smoother baking experience:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 cup dried currants or raisins
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
2 large eggs
For the cross: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup water
For the glaze: 2 tablespoons apricot jam, 1 tablespoon water

4. Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Traditional Hot Cross Buns

1. Preparing the Dough

Dry ingredients for traditional hot cross buns in a mixing bowl.

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and dried currants or raisins. The combination of these spices is what gives these spiced hot cross buns their signature warmth. In a separate saucepan, heat milk and butter until the butter is melted. Let it cool slightly until lukewarm. Add the yeast and let it proof for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step is crucial to ensure your yeast is active and ready to leaven the dough. Add the yeast mixture and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect, soft texture in your homemade hot cross buns. If you are looking for more recipes that require kneading then see our recipe for homemade tortillas.

2. First Proofing

Warming milk on the stove to prepare hot cross buns dough.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This allows the yeast to work its magic, creating a light and airy dough, essential for excellent spiced hot cross buns. A good rise is key to a fluffy bun! Maybe after this you can check out our other sweet recipes here.

3. Shaping and Second Proofing

Hot cross buns dough proofing in a bowl covered with a towel.

Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball. Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes. This second rise ensures the buns are light and fluffy when baked, a key characteristic of classic hot cross buns. While you wait, maybe it’s time to try our recipe for oatmeal raisin cookies!

4. Adding the Cross and Baking

Hot cross buns with cross scoring on a baking sheet before baking.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the buns are proofing, prepare the cross paste by mixing flour and water until smooth. Place the mixture in a piping bag or a Ziploc bag with a small corner cut off. Pipe crosses onto each bun. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze by heating apricot jam and water in a small saucepan until melted and smooth. Brush the glaze over the warm buns immediately after removing them from the oven. This gives your traditional hot cross buns a beautiful shine and added sweetness.

5. Variations and Tips for Hot Cross Buns

Feel free to experiment with your traditional hot cross buns recipe. You can add citrus zest for a brighter flavor, or substitute the dried currants with other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped apricots. For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. If you prefer a vegan version, use plant-based milk and butter alternatives. Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise, and always allow enough time for proofing. What about lemon? Check out this recipe for fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes to get your fill!

6. Serving Suggestions

Traditional hot cross buns are best enjoyed warm, either on their own or with a pat of butter. They also pair perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. Imagine enjoying these on an ultimate pancake board! Leftover buns can be toasted or used to make bread pudding, ensuring no delicious morsel goes to waste.

7. Health Benefits of Spiced Buns

While spiced hot cross buns are a treat, they do offer some nutritional benefits. The spices used, such as cinnamon and nutmeg, have antioxidant properties. The dried fruits provide fiber, and the milk and eggs contribute to protein intake. However, moderation is key, as these buns are also high in sugar and carbohydrates. If you’re looking for something a little healthier, check out more here.

8. Storing Your Homemade Hot Cross Buns

To keep your homemade hot cross buns fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature and warm them in the oven or microwave.

9. Conclusion

Baking traditional hot cross buns is a rewarding experience that brings the warmth and joy of Easter into your home. This detailed traditional hot cross buns recipe ensures you can create spiced hot cross buns that are soft, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy the simple pleasure of baking and savoring these classic hot cross buns, a timeless treat that celebrates tradition and deliciousness. About us, we want you to know more about the amazing world of recipes here!