Spiced Easter Hot Cross Buns
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever wondered what Easter truly tastes like? It's this Hot Cross Buns Recipe , that's what. Think warm spices, sweet fruit and a fluffy texture that just melts in your mouth.
It's pure joy.
Brief Overview
These British Hot Cross Buns Recipe have been around since medieval times, traditionally baked for Good Friday. Don't be scared off by the yeast.
It's not too tricky. This recipe sits at a medium difficulty and will take about 2 hours and 25 minutes from start to finish.
You'll get about 12 gorgeous buns, perfect for sharing... or not.
Main Benefits
Beyond the delicious taste, these buns offer a comforting warmth. Plus, they are perfect for using as Hot Cross Bun Dessert Recipes after your big easter meal.
This Easy Hot Cross Buns Recipe brings a touch of tradition right to your table. It is also great for a bit of springtime joy.
So, what makes this recipe so special?
It's the perfect blend of spice and sweetness. Honestly, the aroma alone is enough to make your day better. They smell like a cozy hug.
Also, they're great for a weekend bake with the family. Fancy creating a Vegan Hot Cross Buns version? I've got you covered too!
Now, let's talk ingredients.
Ingredients & Equipment: Your Hot Cross Buns Mission Control
Ready to make some proper Hot Cross Buns Recipe ? Let's talk ingredients and kit. Honestly, it’s simpler than you think!
Main Ingredients for Spiced Easter Hot Cross Buns
Okay, so for the dough, you'll need:
- 3 ½ cups (420g) strong bread flour. A good, strong flour makes all the difference.
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar.
- 1 teaspoon salt.
- 1 teaspoon mixed spice. Honestly, this is where the magic happens!
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- 7g (2 ¼ teaspoons) dried fast action yeast. Make sure it's fresh ! That's important!
- 1 cup (240ml) lukewarm milk. The temperature is crucial, not too hot.
- 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, melted.
- 1 large egg , lightly beaten.
For the fruity bits:
- ½ cup (75g) raisins.
- ½ cup (75g) sultanas (golden raisins).
- ¼ cup (40g) mixed peel.
For the crosses, which make them Easter Hot Cross Buns :
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour.
- ¼ cup (60ml) water.
Finally, that lovely glaze:
- 2 tablespoons apricot jam.
- 1 tablespoon water.
Quality Check: With flour, get bread flour, not plain. It just gives a better rise. And for the dried yeast, make sure it is not expired or your buns will not be fluffy.
Seasoning Notes: Spice it Up!
You know, the combination of mixed spice and cinnamon is essential . It gives that proper warm, comforting flavour. Mixed spice is a British staple.
Its what turns Easy Hot Cross Buns Recipe into something special. Don't skip it!. I've tried adding a pinch of nutmeg before, nice touch!
What You Need to Get Started Making Hot Cross Buns
Right, equipment wise, nothing too fancy needed for this Spiced Buns Recipe :
- A large mixing bowl, for getting your hands dirty.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Obvious, but essential.
- Baking sheet and some Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat
- Small saucepan, for that glaze.
- Pastry bag or a zip-top bag. This is only for piping the crosses.
Honestly, the most important thing is patience . Making these Homemade Hot Cross Buns is about the process.
Right, get those ingredients ready, and let's get baking! This British Hot Cross Buns Recipe will be worth it!.
Baking Brilliance: Nailing the Perfect Hot Cross Buns Recipe
Oh my gosh, Easter is just around the corner! You know what that means, right? Time to whip up a batch of Hot Cross Buns Recipe ! Nothing screams Easter like these spiced beauties.
Honestly, the smell alone is enough to get me in the holiday spirit. This isn't just any Spiced Buns Recipe ; this is how to make proper British Hot Cross Buns.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
First things first, let's get our ducks in a row. Measure out all your ingredients beforehand flour, sugar, spices, the works.
It seriously saves so much time later. For the dried fruit, I like to soak my raisins, sultanas, and mixed peel in a bit of warm water or even orange juice.
It makes them extra plump and juicy. And a quick safety reminder: always make sure your hands are clean before diving into that dough.
Trust me, nobody wants any rogue germs in their buns!
step-by-step: Hot Cross Bun Heaven
Alright, let’s dive into the Easy Hot Cross Buns Recipe .
- Wake up the yeast: Combine lukewarm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar . Wait about 5- 10 minutes until it's frothy.
- Dry ingredients unite: In a big bowl, whisk together 3 ½ cups flour, ¼ cup sugar, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp mixed spice, and ½ tsp cinnamon .
- Dough Time: Add the yeast mixture, 4 tablespoons melted butter , and 1 beaten egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until it looks shaggy.
- Knead that Dough: Knead for 5- 7 minutes , until smooth.
- Fruity Fun: Gently knead in ½ cup raisins, ½ cup sultanas, and ¼ cup mixed peel .
- First Rise: Place in a greased bowl. Cover and let rise for 1-1. 5 hours , until doubled.
- Shape 'em: Divide into 12 balls.
- Second Rise: Place on a baking sheet. Let rise for 30- 45 minutes .
Pro Tips for Hot Cross Bun Perfection
Here’s a sneaky tip, for a richer flavour, add a tablespoon of rum to the fruit when soaking. I also always like to brush my Good Friday Buns with a second coat of the apricot glaze for maximum shine.
The secret is to let the Homemade Hot Cross Buns cool properly on a rack, then store them in an airtight container, they'll stay fresh for longer.
Honestly? Making these makes my day. Give this Traditional Hot Cross Buns a try! You'll have the best Easter Hot Cross Buns ever.
Recipe Notes for Your Amazing Hot Cross Buns
Right then, let's talk about the nitty gritty of this hot cross buns recipe . Honestly, baking can be a bit of an adventure.
So, I have included some notes below to keep you on the straight and narrow!
Serving Suggestions: Bun-tastic Presentation
Okay, so you've got a batch of beautiful Easter Hot Cross Buns fresh from the oven. Now what? Plating is key!.
Pile them high on a rustic wooden board. Dust with a tiny bit of icing sugar, you know, for that "just baked" look.
As for drinks, a cuppa is vital. This British Hot Cross Buns recipe basically demands a builder's tea! You could also go for a lovely latte.
Seriously, it's like a warm hug in a mug. And a spread of butter. Oh my gosh!. You must serve them with butter.
I also like cream cheese. Try it, you might surprise yourself.
Storage Tips: Keep 'Em Fresh
Right, so you've made too many. Don't worry, it happens to the best of us! Once they're completely cool, pop them in an airtight container.
They will keep for around 3 days in the fridge.
Want to freeze them? Go for it! Wrap them individually in cling film, then whack them in a freezer bag.
They will be good for up to 3 months . To reheat, just microwave for a few seconds. Warm them up in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 5 minutes.
Variations: Bun Hacking Time
Fancy a twist? I've got you! Want a healthier recipe? You can make Vegan Hot Cross Buns by swapping out the dairy for plant based alternatives. Easy peasy!.
Or, try using different fruits. Cranberries or chopped dried apricots work wonders. Seriously, get creative! I think one of the best seasonal swaps for hot cross buns recipe is to include fresh orange zest in the dough, particularly for Christmas.
You know? A hint of festive citrus!
Nutrition Basics: A Little Bit of What You Fancy
Let's be real, these are treats. So, expect a bit of sugar and carbs. But you also get some fiber from the dried fruit, and a bit of protein.
Each bun will clock in at around 220-250 calories . Remember, all things in moderation!
So, there you have it. All the tips and tricks to make this easy hot cross buns recipe a total success.
Don't be scared. Get stuck in. Baking should be fun! You've got this.
Frequently Asked Questions
My hot cross buns didn't rise properly what went wrong?
Ah, the dreaded dough dilemma! Several factors can affect proving. First, check your yeast isn't past its "use by" date. Secondly, the milk should be lukewarm, not scorching hot, or it'll kill the yeast.
Finally, make sure the proving environment is warm and draft free think of it as creating a cozy spa day for your dough!
Can I make this hot cross buns recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to the first rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Just punch it down in the morning, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, and continue with the shaping and second rise. You can also bake the buns and freeze them (unglazed) for up to a month.
Thaw completely and glaze before serving. They will taste like they came straight from the bakery!
What can I substitute for mixed peel in this hot cross buns recipe?
Not a fan of mixed peel? No worries! You can easily substitute it with more of the other dried fruits, like raisins or sultanas. Or, for a twist, try using chopped dried apricots or even cranberries.
A bit of citrus zest (orange or lemon) can also add a lovely complementary flavour if you want something with a similar tang. Just make sure to keep the total quantity of dried fruit about the same.
How do I get the crosses on my hot cross buns to look neat and tidy?
A good looking cross is all about the paste and the piping! Make sure your flour and water paste is smooth and not too runny it should hold its shape. Use a piping bag with a small nozzle (or a zip-top bag with a tiny corner snipped off) for control.
Pipe slowly and steadily, and don't worry if they're not perfect; a little rustic charm is part of the fun! Alternatively, you can make shallow cuts in the buns with a knife and pipe the paste into the cuts.
Can I make these hot cross buns vegan?
Yes, you can! To make vegan hot cross buns, substitute the milk with plant based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. Use a vegan butter substitute for the melted butter. For the egg, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken).
You might want to check your mixed spice is vegan too as some may include honey!
Spiced Easter Hot Cross Buns
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 235 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 2.5g |
