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Homemade Hot Cross Buns

Soft, spiced Easter buns filled with raisins and topped with a traditional cross and sweet glaze.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12 buns
Course: Bread, Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: British, Easter
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 3.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2.25 tsp active dry yeast
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 0.5 tsp nutmeg
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.75 cup warm milk
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 eggs
  • 0.75 cup raisins or currants
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cross
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 5-6 tbsp water
Glaze
  • 2 tbsp apricot jam or honey
  • 1 tbsp warm water

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy.
  2. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
  3. In another bowl, whisk flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Combine wet and dry ingredients to form a soft dough.
  5. Knead dough until smooth and elastic, then let rise until doubled.
  6. Shape into buns and let rise again.
  7. Pipe cross mixture on top and bake until golden.
  8. Brush with glaze and cool before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, soak raisins in warm orange juice before adding to the dough.