Name: Easy Hot Cross Buns Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4.25 cups all-purpose flour; 0.33 cup granulated sugar; 1.25 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1.25 teaspoons ground nutmeg; 0.5 teaspoon allspice; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 2.25 teaspoons instant yeast; 1 cup whole milk (warmed); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 1 large egg (beaten); 1 cup currants (or raisins)

Is Easter really that magical? The smell of yeast and spices wafting from the kitchen, the thrill of the Easter egg hunt, and then, finally, a big surprise. The grand finale: The final episode of How do I make easy hot cross buns? Forget those dry, bland buns you find in the supermarket – these are soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. If you love cinnamon rolls but want something a little lighter and sweet, try these cinnamon roll muffins. What are some good recipes for spring? Is it like hugging in a bun?

What is [Recipe Name]?

What are easy hot cross buns? Think of them as enriched sweet rolls, traditionally eaten on Good Friday and throughout the Easter period. I like currants and apricots, and they’re made with yeasty dough. I love raisins too! Can you use any kind of raisins? ), and spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of clove. The cross on top, made of a simple flour paste or icing, symbolizes the crucifixion. Is it essentially a little piece of edible history, but more importantly, it’s utterly delicious?

Why do I love this recipe?

What I love most about this recipe is that it takes all the intimidation out of making hot cross-sections. How do I make buns from scratch Can baking with yeast be a little scary? Why do you become obsessed with something?

Flavor explosion: whatWhat is the combination of warm spices, sweet dried fruit, and that tangy citrus glaze? What do you smell while baking?
Easy peasy:Don’t let the word “yeast” scare you. This recipe is designed for even beginner bakers. How do I make my buns rise every time?
Budget- You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry! No fancy equipment or expensive ingredients required.
Versatile:What are some good ways to enjoy them warm with a pat of butter, dunk them in your morning coffee, or even toast them and serve them hot. slather them with cream cheese. What are some of the best healthy breakfasts to eat?

If you’re a fan of my bread recipe, e.g. , cinnamon rolls] or my [link to another sweet treat, e.g. a banana bread roll]. What are some of the best cross buns? What are some of the best Easter eggs?

How do I make [Recipe Name]?

Quick Overview

What is the easiest way to make a cross bun? How do I start with yeast, then mix up a soft, enriched dough? After a little rising time (perfect for catching up on your favorite show! ), we’ll shape the buns, add the signature cross, and bake them to golden perfection. We’ll drizzle them with a sweet and tangy citrus glaze. Is it worth the effort to do it?

Ingredients Notes

For the Main Batter:

All-purpose Flour This is the base of our buns, providing structure. I haven’t tested it with gluten-free flour yet, but if you do, let me know how it goes!
Active Dry Yeast: How isIf you’re using fresh yeast, make sure it’s fresh! I always proof mine with a little sugar and warm water to make sure it’s alive and kicking.
Granulated Sugar: For sweetness and to feed the yeast.
Salt:What are some of the best yeasts?
Milk:Adds richness and moisture to dough. I usually use whole milk, but you can use 2% or even a plant-based milk like almond or soy. Just make sure it’s warmed to lukewarm (about 110-115°F) before adding it to yeast.
Butter:Adds flavor and tenderness to buns. Use unsalted butter and make sure it’s softened to room temperature.
Egg:Adds richness and structure to dough.
Mixed Dried Fruits: What areI use a mix of currants, raisins, and chopped candied peel, but feel free to get creative! What are some good substitutes for dried cranberries?
Mixed Spice:What is a blend of cinnamon, cloves, and allspice? What makes buns so comforting?
Orange Zest: Adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the spices perfectly.

For the Crosses:

All-purpose Flour Mixed with water to create a simple paste for the crosses.
Water: To bind the flour into a smooth paste.

For the Glaze:

Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this dissolves easily in liquid to create a smooth glaze.
Orange Juice:Adds a bright, citrusy flavor and thins the glaze to the perfect consistency. Can you use lemon juice or milk?

What are the steps to

Step 1: Proof the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Mix well. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy. How do you know if the yeast is active? If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be expired, and you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast. Trust me, I’ve been there!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and mixed spice. Set aside. How do you distribute the spices in dough? What is the best flavor in every bite?

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

What is the yeast mixture in a bowl? Add the softened butter, egg, and orange zest. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix everything together until squishy dough forms. Then, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is smooth. When you get a smooth surface, it becomes elastic If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. Do not add too much or the buns will be dry.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dried Fruit

Gently knead the mixed dried fruit into the dough until it’s evenly distributed. This can be a little messy, but it’s worth it! What are some of the best dried fruits to serve on buns?

Step 5: First Rise

Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for about 10 minutes. I usually put mine in the oven with the light on for 5 hours. This creates a nice, warm environment for the yeast to do its thing.

Step 6: Shape the Buns

Punch down the dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave a little space between each bun to allow for expansion during baking.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the buns with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up slightly.

Step 8: Make the Crosses

While the buns are rising, prepare the crosses. In a small bowl, mix together the flour and water until you have a smooth paste. Transfer the paste to a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a small corner snipped off. Pipe a cross on top of each bun.

Step 9: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Keep an eye on them, as ovens can vary. If they start to brown too quickly, you can tent them with foil.

Step 10: Glaze

While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until you have a smooth glaze. Once the buns are out of the oven, let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle the glaze over the warm buns. I like to do this while they’re still slightly warm so the glaze melts into them a little.

Step 11: Serve

Enjoy your **easy hot cross buns** warm or at room temperature. They’re best eaten on the day they’re made, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

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What to Serve It With

These **easy hot cross buns** are delicious on their own, but here are a few ideas for making them even more special:

For Breakfast: Serve them warm with a pat of butter and a cup of strong coffee. The bitterness of the coffee perfectly complements the sweetness of the buns.

For Brunch: Arrange them on a platter with fresh fruit, cheeses, and a mimosa or two. They make a beautiful and festive addition to any brunch spread.

As Dessert: Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The warm buns and cold ice cream create a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures.

For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy them with a cup of tea or hot chocolate on a chilly evening. They’re the perfect comfort food.

My family has a tradition of serving these with a big pot of Irish breakfast tea on Easter morning. It’s the perfect way to start the day!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your [Recipe Name]

Here are a few of my top tips for making the *perfect* **easy hot cross buns**:

Yeast is Key: Always make sure your yeast is fresh and active. Expired yeast is the number one reason why baked goods don’t rise properly. Proofing the yeast before adding it to the other ingredients is a great way to ensure it’s alive and kicking.

Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough buns. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined, then knead for only as long as necessary to develop the gluten.

Warm Place for Rising: A warm, draft-free place is essential for the dough to rise properly. I like to use the oven with the light on, but you can also try placing the bowl in a warm room or near a radiator.

Get Creative with Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different types of dried fruit, nuts, or even chocolate chips. The possibilities are endless!

Don’t Skip the Glaze: The glaze adds a delicious touch of sweetness and moisture to the buns. I prefer a simple citrus glaze, but you can also use a vanilla glaze or even a cream cheese glaze.

Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep a close eye on the buns while they’re baking. They’re done when they’re golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

I learned the hard way that overbaking these buns makes them dry and crumbly. Now I always set a timer and check them a few minutes before the recommended baking time.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s how to keep your **easy hot cross buns** fresh and delicious:

Room Temperature: Store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best eaten on the day they’re made, but they’ll still be good the next day.

Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the buns in an airtight container for up to 4 days. However, they may become slightly drier in the refrigerator.

Freezer Instructions: To freeze the buns, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the buns, it’s best to glaze them after they’ve been thawed. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or dissolving during freezing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Look for one that contains xanthan gum, as this will help to bind the ingredients together. You might need to add a little extra liquid to the dough, as gluten-free flours tend to absorb more moisture. Keep an eye on the dough’s consistency and add water or milk, a tablespoon at a time, until it forms a smooth, slightly sticky dough. Be aware that gluten-free buns might not rise as much as traditional buns, but they will still be delicious!

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

Nope, no need to peel the zucchini! The skin is perfectly edible and adds a nice bit of color and texture to the buns. Plus, it’s full of nutrients! Just make sure to wash the zucchini thoroughly before grating it.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

Absolutely! If you prefer muffins, simply divide the dough into muffin cups instead of shaping them into buns. Bake them at the same temperature for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as muffins tend to bake a little faster than buns.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

If you prefer less sweet buns, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and glaze. You can also substitute some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that these sweeteners will add a slightly different flavor to the buns. Start by reducing the sugar by a tablespoon or two and taste the dough before baking to see if it’s sweet enough for your liking.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

If you’re not a fan of glaze, you can dust the warm buns with powdered sugar. Or, for a richer topping, you can spread them with cream cheese frosting. You can also simply enjoy them plain!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this **easy hot cross buns** recipe a try! It’s a family favorite for a reason, and I know you’ll love the soft, fluffy texture, warm spices, and sweet citrus glaze. It’s the perfect way to bring a little Easter magic into your home. If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my [link to a similar recipe] and my [link to another related recipe] for more delicious baking ideas. Happy baking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out – leave a comment below and let me know what you think!