Traditional Hot Cross Buns

Name: Traditional Hot Cross Buns
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: English
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast; 1 cup warm milk (110°F); ¼ cup sugar; ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp nutmeg; ½ cup raisins or currants (soaked in warm water); 2 eggs; 1 cup icing sugar (for glaze); 1 tsp vanilla extract

By Lina Baker

April 2, 2025

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There’s something magical about the aroma of Traditional Hot Cross Buns wafting through the kitchen. Imagine soft, pillowy dough kissed with warm spices, studded with succulent raisins and crowned with a sweet glaze. As these delightful buns bake, your home transforms into a cozy haven filled with anticipation and nostalgia.

I remember the first time I baked hot cross buns my kitchen looked like a flour explosion had taken place. My kids were both fascinated and slightly horrified as I struggled to keep the dough from sticking to every surface imaginable. But the moment we pulled those golden-brown buns from the oven, their eyes lit up as if we had just unearthed treasure. Perfect for Easter brunch or any chilly Sunday morning, these buns promise not just flavor but a heartfelt experience.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Traditional Hot Cross Buns are easy to make, ensuring everyone can join in on the fun
The flavor profile combines spices and sweetness for an irresistible treat
Their golden appearance makes them a stunning centerpiece at any gathering
Plus, they’re versatile enough to enjoy fresh out of the oven or toasted for breakfast

Baking these buns has brought smiles and laughter to countless family gatherings you can’t help but feel joy when sharing them.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

All-Purpose Flour: Fresh flour is essential for that perfect, fluffy texture in your buns.
Active Dry Yeast: Always check expiration dates fresh yeast ensures your buns rise beautifully.
Milk: Warm milk helps activate the yeast and adds richness to the dough.
Sugar: A touch of sugar feeds the yeast while also adding sweetness.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over salt levels in your dough.
Spices (Cinnamon & Nutmeg): Ground spices give these buns their signature flavor freshly grated nutmeg offers superior taste.
Raisins or Currants: These little gems add sweetness soak them in warm water beforehand for extra plumpness.
Eggs: Eggs enrich the dough and contribute to its lovely color.
Icing Sugar: For that glossy glaze, mix it with a splash of milk after baking.
Vanilla Extract: A hint of vanilla elevates flavors opt for pure extract when possible.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Dough: Begin by warming your milk until it’s comfortably lukewarm like a cozy hug for your yeast. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and spices. Create a well in the center to pour in the warmed milk and yeast mixture.

Knead Away: Add softened butter and eggs into your bowl and mix until combined then get ready to unleash your inner baker by kneading Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Let It Rise: Place your dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled this usually takes about an hour. You’ll know it’s ready when you can poke it gently without it springing back immediately.

Add Those Sweet Bits: Gently fold in your plumped raisins or currants into the dough while imagining how wonderful they will taste when baked within that soft embrace.

Shape Your Buns: Divide the dough into equal portions (about 12) and shape each into a bun think of rolling little doughy snowballs Place them on a lined baking tray close together for that lovely “baked-together” look.

Create Crosses & Bake: Mix flour with water to create a thick paste for crosses pipe them over your buns before sliding them into an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown and glorious

These Traditional Hot Cross Buns are not just food they are memories waiting to happen Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter as you sip on tea or coffee the perfect pairing

You Must Know

Traditional hot cross buns are not just delicious they’re a symbol of Easter tradition
Their sweet aroma and soft texture make them irresistible, perfect for sharing or enjoying with tea
A little patience during baking leads to these delightful creations that warm the heart

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your dry ingredients first, then add the warmed milk and butter mixture. Knead until smooth before letting it rise. This ensures the dough develops properly, creating fluffy buns.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out currants for chocolate chips or nuts for a twist on this classic recipe. Add in spices like nutmeg or allspice for an extra kick of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store your hot cross buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For freshness, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure your yeast is fresh to achieve a good rise expired yeast can lead to dense buns
Always knead the dough thoroughly this develops gluten and gives that lovely texture
Don’t rush the rising times they’re crucial for fluffiness and flavor development

The first time I made traditional hot cross buns, my family devoured them within minutes They insisted that I bake more, claiming they were better than store-bought talk about a confidence boost

FAQ

What is the origin of traditional hot cross buns?

Hot cross buns date back to ancient England and symbolize Easter traditions.

Can I make hot cross buns ahead of time?

Yes Prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate overnight.

Do I need special equipment to make these buns?

No special equipment needed a mixing bowl and baking sheet will suffice

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