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Hot Cross Buns Recipe

hot cross buns recipe baked until golden and glazed on top

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This hot cross buns recipe makes soft, fluffy buns with warm spices, sweet raisins, and a shiny glaze. They are perfect for Easter, spring brunch, or a cozy homemade baking day.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup warm whole milk

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

1/4 cup granulated sugar

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon allspice

3/4 cup raisins or currants

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

5 to 6 tablespoons water

2 tablespoons apricot jam or honey

1 tablespoon warm water

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, stir together the warm milk, yeast, and a small spoonful of the sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.

2. Whisk in the remaining sugar, melted butter, and eggs.

3. Add 3 1/2 cups flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then stir in the raisins or currants.

4. Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes by hand or 6 to 8 minutes with a mixer until smooth and slightly tacky. Add a little more flour only if needed.

5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until doubled in size.

6. Punch the dough down gently and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.

7. Cover and let the shaped buns rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.

8. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

9. Mix 1/2 cup flour with 5 to 6 tablespoons water to make a thick paste. Pipe crosses over the tops of the buns.

10. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the buns are golden brown.

11. Warm the apricot jam or honey with 1 tablespoon warm water and brush over the buns while still warm.

12. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Soak the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain and dry them before adding them to the dough for a softer texture.

Do not add too much flour or the buns may turn heavy instead of soft.

Brush the glaze over the buns while they are still warm for the best shine.

Store the buns covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm them slightly before serving.

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