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Hot Cross Buns

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These classic Hot Cross Buns are soft, spiced sweet buns filled with juicy raisins and finished with a signature flour cross and glossy apricot glaze. Perfect for Easter celebrations or cozy afternoon tea, these traditional buns deliver homemade comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

  • 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 tsp ground allspice

  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1 cup warm milk

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 egg

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 3/4 cup raisins or currants

  • Zest of 1 orange

For the Cross:

  • 1/2 cup flour

  • 1/3 cup water

For the Glaze:

 

  • 2 tbsp apricot jam or honey

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, spices, and salt. Stir to blend.

  • In another bowl, mix warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla. Add wet to dry ingredients and mix into a sticky dough.

  • Stir in raisins and orange zest. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth.

  • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled.

  • Punch down and divide dough into 12 equal portions. Shape into balls and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

  • Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • Mix flour and water to create a paste. Pipe a cross on each bun using a piping bag or ziplock.

  • Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

  • While buns are still warm, brush with warmed apricot jam or honey for a shiny finish.

 

  • Serve warm with butter.

Notes

  • For extra softness, use bread flour instead of all-purpose.

  • You can substitute dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for raisins.

 

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving.

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/hot-cross-buns/