Soft Spiced Hot Cross Buns (Print Version)
Soft, spiced hot cross buns with raisins and citrus zest deliver cozy, fragrant warmth for any brunch or snack time.
# Ingredients:
Dry Ingredients
01 -
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 -
1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 -
1 teaspoon salt
04 -
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 -
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
06 -
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
07 -
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
Liquids and Fats
08 -
3/4 cup whole milk, warmed to comfortable temperature
09 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
10 -
1 large egg
Flavorings and Add-ins
11 -
1 tablespoon citrus zest (orange or lemon)
12 -
1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots)
Cross Paste
13 -
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
14 -
2 to 3 tablespoons water
Glaze
15 -
2 tablespoons honey or simple syrup, warmed
# Instructions:
01 -
Warm the milk until comfortably warm. Stir in 1 teaspoon sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the milk. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
02 -
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Make a well in the center.
03 -
Add the melted butter, egg, activated yeast mixture, and citrus zest into the well. Mix thoroughly until a shaggy dough forms.
04 -
Flour a clean surface and knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should spring back upon gentle poke.
05 -
Flatten the dough and sprinkle dried fruit evenly over it. Fold the dough over and knead briefly to distribute the fruit without crushing it.
06 -
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover and place in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
07 -
Deflate the dough and divide into 12 equal portions. Roll each into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
08 -
Cover loosely and let the buns rise for an additional 30 to 45 minutes until puffed.
09 -
Mix flour and water to a thick paste. Transfer to a piping bag or plastic bag with a small corner cut off. Pipe crosses over each bun.
10 -
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake buns for 18 to 22 minutes until golden brown.
11 -
Brush warm honey or syrup over hot buns immediately after baking. Cool on a rack before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
For vegan versions, substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg. Fresh buns are best enjoyed within two days; freeze extras individually once cooled.
02 -
Ensure yeast is active to guarantee proper rising; dead yeast results in dense buns.