Description
Traditional Hot Cross Buns are the perfect blend of sweet and spiced, delivering a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen. These soft, pillowy buns are studded with currants and infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter, they offer a delightful flavor experience that evokes memories of cozy gatherings and family traditions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- 1. Activate the yeast: In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- 2. Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- 3. Combine: Gradually mix dry ingredients into the yeast mixture along with softened butter until a sticky dough forms.
- 4. Knead: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 5. First rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- 6. Add fruits: Gently fold in soaked currants and orange zest. Divide dough into about 12 pieces and shape each into a bun.
- 7. Second rise: Place on a lined baking sheet and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- 8. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- 9. Glaze: Mix icing sugar with water to create a thick yet pourable consistency; drizzle over buns once cooled.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun (60g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg