Delicious Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Get ready to elevate your Easter table with these delicious homemade Hot Cross Buns! This scratch-made recipe combines all the classic elements you love in this seasonal treat: soft and fragrant dough, juicy sultanas, and a perfect blend of spices. Say goodbye to store-bought buns and embrace the joy of baking these beauties yourself. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

I stumbled upon this Hot Cross Buns recipe after feeling disappointed by the lackluster options at supermarkets. The first bite of these homemade buns was a game-changer for my family – the soft texture, the rich flavors, and the authentic taste made us never look back. Freshly ground spices make all the difference in creating a memorable Easter treat, and the aroma that fills your kitchen as these buns bake is simply irresistible. Don’t be intimidated by working with yeast; this recipe offers a straightforward approach that guarantees bakery-quality results every time. Join me in bringing the tradition of Hot Cross Buns to life in your own kitchen and create lasting memories this Easter season.

Quick Benefits

• Bakery-level quality buns that surpass store-bought versions
• Fresh spices enhance the aroma and flavor of the buns
• Slightly sticky dough yields fluffy, soft buns akin to those from a fancy bakery
• No-knead option for a hassle-free baking experience

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Hot Cross Buns Recipe Recipe

• You will love this recipe because it offers a scratch-made version of hot cross buns, providing the perfect combination of soft insides, rich spices, juicy fruits, and classic shiny tops with crosses.
• The recipe offers an easy approach to using yeast, ensuring bakery-level buns that will make you forget about store-bought versions forever.
• Freshly ground spices and slightly sticky dough contribute to the amazing taste and texture of these buns, making them reminiscent of those from a fancy bakery.
• The option for a no-knead version of the recipe simplifies the baking process while still yielding delicious results, perfect for those intimidated by kneading or lacking a mixer.
• You can customize the recipe by incorporating different flavors such as dark chocolate, tropical fruits, or orange-cranberry variations, adding a fun twist to the traditional hot cross buns.
• The ability to prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the fridge overnight saves time on busy holiday mornings, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked buns with minimal effort.
• Embracing this centuries-old tradition of making hot cross buns at home adds a special touch to Easter celebrations, creating a meaningful experience for both the baker and those who get to enjoy the delicious buns.

Ingredients for Delicious Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Buns

• 3 tsp instant yeast
• 1 egg, room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups warm milk
• 1/2 cup caster sugar
• 3.5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups sultanas
• 2 tsp All Spice
• Zest of 1-2 oranges
• 2 tsp cinnamon powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup extra bread flour
• 4 1/4 cups bread flour

Crosses

• 5 tbsp water
• 1/2 cup flour

Glaze

• 2 tsp water
• 1 tbsp apricot jam

Pro Tips for Delicious Hot Cross Buns Recipe

For the freshest and most flavorful hot cross buns, consider buying new ground spices right before Easter. This simple step can make a significant difference in the taste and aroma of your buns. Fresh spices will elevate the overall quality of your homemade treats and ensure they have a robust and aromatic flavor that rivals those from a professional bakery.

When making the dough for your hot cross buns, remember that slightly sticky dough yields the softest and fluffiest results. Avoid the temptation to add too much flour, as this can lead to tough and heavy buns. Embrace the tackiness of the dough, as it will result in light and airy buns that have a delightful texture. Trust in the process and don’t be alarmed if the dough feels a bit sticky – it’s all part of creating buns that taste like they were expertly crafted in a bakery.

How to Make Delicious Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Dry

Combine flour, sugar, salt, yeast, cinnamon, and All Spice in a large bowl. Mix briefly using the dough hook attachment on a stand mixer.

Step 2: Add the Wet

Add butter, milk, egg, zest, and sultanas to the mixer. Mix on speed 2 for 5 minutes, then increase to speed 4 until dough becomes smooth. Add more flour if sticky.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which will take 30 minutes to 1.5 hours.

Step 4: Shape the Buns

Flatten the dough, shape it into a log, cut into 12 even pieces, roll each into a ball, and place in a 3×4 grid on a baking paper-lined tray.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the buns with oiled cling wrap and let them rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until they swell up by about 75%.

Step 6: Add Crosses

Combine flour and water to form a thick paste. Pipe lines on the buns to create crosses after removing the wrap.

Step 7: Bake and Glaze

Bake the tray in a 350°F oven for approximately 22 minutes until the buns turn a dark golden color. Heat the jam and water in the microwave for 30 seconds, then brush it over the warm buns.

Storage Tips

After baking your delicious hot cross buns, you’ll want to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Once the buns have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To keep them soft and moist, you can also place a paper towel in the container to absorb any excess moisture.

If you plan to enjoy your hot cross buns beyond a few days, they can be stored in the freezer. Wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through. Enjoy your homemade hot cross buns whenever you crave a delightful Easter treat!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have sultanas on hand, you can easily substitute them with other dried fruits such as raisins, currants, or chopped dried apricots. These options will still provide a sweet and juicy element to your hot cross buns. Additionally, if you prefer a different citrus flavor, you can use lemon zest instead of orange zest for a slightly different but still delicious twist.

For a dairy-free version of these hot cross buns, you can replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or coconut oil. This substitution will maintain the moisture and richness in the buns without compromising the overall texture. Similarly, if you’re looking to make these buns vegan, you can use a flax egg or a commercial egg replacer instead of the egg called for in the recipe. These swaps will help you cater to different dietary preferences while still achieving tasty homemade hot cross buns.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these homemade Hot Cross Buns warm from the oven with a dollop of clotted cream or a generous slather of butter for a comforting and indulgent treat. For a twist, try toasting the buns and serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert that combines the warmth of the buns with the cold creaminess of the ice cream.

To elevate your hot cross buns, consider turning them into a bread pudding for a decadent dessert. Simply cube the buns and soak them in a mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and spices before baking until golden and set. Serve the bread pudding warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of whipped cream for a delightful and satisfying end to your Easter meal.

FAQs for Delicious Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Can I use dried cranberries instead of sultanas in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute dried cranberries for sultanas in this hot cross buns recipe. The cranberries will add a slightly different flavor profile, but they will work well with the other ingredients and bring a nice tartness to the buns.

Can I make these hot cross buns ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes, you can make the hot cross buns ahead of time and freeze them for later. Once the buns are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature or reheat them in a low oven until warmed through.

Is it necessary to use fresh spices in this recipe?

While using fresh spices will enhance the flavor of the hot cross buns, you can still achieve great results with quality ground spices. Just make sure your spices are not expired and store them properly in a cool, dark place to preserve their flavor.

Can I make these hot cross buns without a stand mixer or kneading?

Absolutely! You can follow the no-knead version of this recipe for a simpler method that doesn’t require a stand mixer or traditional kneading. The dough will be stickier, but with a little extra flour for shaping, you can still achieve delicious homemade hot cross buns with minimal effort.

Conclusion

As you embark on making your own batch of Hot Cross Buns, remember that the magic is not just in the ingredients, but in the love and care you put into each step of the process. Embrace the slight stickiness of the dough and let it guide you to the fluffiest, most flavorful buns you’ve ever tasted. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new flavors and ingredients to make these Easter classics uniquely yours. Let the aroma of freshly baked buns fill your home, making each moment in the kitchen a celebration of tradition and togetherness.

In the end, these homemade Hot Cross Buns aren’t just a delightful treat for Easter; they’re a labor of love that brings joy to those around your table. So go ahead, knead the dough, shape the buns, and savor every bite knowing that you’ve created something truly special. With each batch you bake, you’re not just making Hot Cross Buns – you’re creating memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy the process, embrace the traditions, and let the warmth of these buns fill your heart and home this Easter season.