Traditional Hot Cross Buns

Name: Traditional Hot Cross Buns
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Western
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1 cup whole milk (warm); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup currants (soaked in warm water); Zest of 1 orange; 1 cup icing sugar (for glazing)

By Elisa Levine

April 1, 2025

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There’s something wonderfully aromatic about the scent of Traditional Hot Cross Buns wafting through your kitchen. Picture this: soft, pillowy buns glistening with a sweet glaze, infused with spices that dance on your tongue and make your heart sing. Just imagining their warm, fluffy texture makes me feel all fuzzy inside, like a hug from Grandma.

These iconic little treats are not just for Easter they bring joy to any cozy gathering. Each bite bursts with currants and a hint of citrus, creating a flavor explosion that keeps you reaching for more. Trust me, once you bite into one of these beauties, you’ll experience pure bliss

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Traditional Hot Cross Buns are easy to make and perfect for any occasion
Their delightful blend of spices and fruits creates an irresistible flavor profile
Visually stunning when glazed and decorated, they steal the show at brunch or gatherings
Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter for breakfast or snack time

I remember the first time I made Traditional Hot Cross Buns my friends couldn’t believe their eyes (or noses) when they walked into my kitchen. The aroma was so inviting that it felt like we had been transported to a quaint bakery in London.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

All-Purpose Flour: This is your base opt for high-quality flour for the best results.
Active Dry Yeast: Make sure it’s fresh otherwise, those buns won’t rise as beautifully.
Milk: Whole milk gives the buns richness warm it up slightly to activate the yeast.
Sugar: You’ll need granulated sugar to feed the yeast and add sweetness to the dough.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for flavor let it soften before mixing it in.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices bring warmth and holiday cheer to every bite don’t skimp on them
Currants or Raisins: These little gems add natural sweetness soak them in warm water for extra plumpness.
Orange Zest: A dash of zest adds a refreshing citrus note that’s simply irresistible.
Icing Sugar: To create that classic cross on top, mix this with some water it’s all about presentation

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

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Dough: Start by heating your milk until it’s warm but not boiling just like a cozy bath for your yeast In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let this sit until frothy, which should take about 5-10 minutes.

Add Dry Ingredients and Mix: In another bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the yeast blend along with softened butter until you’ve formed a sticky dough.

Knead Until Smooth: Turn out your dough onto a floured surface and knead vigorously for 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic this is where you get to release all that pent-up energy

Let It Rise: Place your dough in an oiled bowl and cover it with a clean cloth. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size about 1 hour should do the trick.

Add Fruits and Shape Buns: Once risen, gently fold in soaked currants or raisins along with orange zest. Divide the dough into equal pieces (about 12) and shape each into a bun.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place buns on a lined baking sheet and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. Bake until golden brown approximately 20-25 minutes will give you that perfect color

Don’t forget to whip up some icing while they cool down because what’s a hot cross bun without its iconic cross? Mix icing sugar with just enough water until you reach a thick yet pourable consistency.

Inhale deeply as you bite into one of these freshly baked Traditional Hot Cross Buns. The combination of spices tickles your senses while the sweetness envelops your taste buds Perfectly paired with tea or coffee or even slathered in butter they’re guaranteed to be loved by everyone around.

Enjoy baking these delectable buns as much as I did

You Must Know

Traditional Hot Cross Buns are delightful, sweet, and spiced rolls perfect for Easter
Their rich aroma fills your kitchen while baking, bringing back fond childhood memories of family gatherings
Enjoy them warm with butter or toasted, making every bite a comforting experience

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by activating the yeast in warm milk while mixing dry ingredients. This ensures fluffy buns. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, letting it rise until doubled in size for perfect texture.

Add Your Touch

Try adding chocolate chips or dried fruit for a twist on traditional hot cross buns. You can also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice to find your favorite flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover hot cross buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh yeast for optimal rise and flavor it can make all the difference
Don’t skip the second rise it’s crucial for fluffy buns
Brush with milk before baking for a beautifully golden crust

Sharing my first attempt at making Traditional Hot Cross Buns was quite memorable my friends devoured them and declared me a baking genius

FAQs

FAQ

What is the best way to shape hot cross buns?

Divide dough into equal pieces and shape into tight balls for even baking.

Can I freeze hot cross buns?

Yes, freeze them after cooling in an airtight container for up to three months.

What can I substitute for currants in hot cross buns?

Raisins or chopped dried apricots work well as delicious alternatives to currants.

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