Hot cross buns are a delightful treat often enjoyed during Easter, but you can make them anytime! Here’s a simple recipe to make soft, spiced hot cross buns with a sweet glaze.

Simple Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Ingredients:

  • For the Buns:
    • 4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
    • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
    • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
    • 1/2 tsp ground allspice
    • 1/2 tsp salt
    • 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
    • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
    • 1 large egg
    • 1/2 cup raisins or currants (optional)
  • For the Crosses:
    • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1/4 cup water
  • For the Glaze:
    • 1/4 cup apricot jam or honey

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.
    • In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients.
    • Stir in the raisins or currants if using. Mix until a dough forms.
  2. Knead the Dough:
    • Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5-6 minutes.
  3. First Rise:
    • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  4. Shape the Buns:
    • Punch down the dough and divide it into 12-15 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a greased baking tray, close together but not touching.
  5. Second Rise:
    • Cover and let the buns rise again for 30-45 minutes until they are puffy and touching each other.
  6. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Make the Crosses:
    • Mix the flour and water to form a thick paste. Spoon the mixture into a piping bag (or a plastic bag with the corner snipped off) and pipe a cross over each bun.
  8. Bake the Buns:
    • Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
  9. Glaze:
    • While the buns are baking, warm the apricot jam or honey until liquid. As soon as the buns come out of the oven, brush the tops with the glaze for a shiny finish.
  10. Cool and Serve:
    • Let the buns cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

These buns are perfect for breakfast, tea time, or as a sweet snack. Enjoy!

Image from Wikipedia