Easter Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Easter Hot Cross Buns are a classic treat that are traditionally enjoyed during the Easter season. These deliciously spiced and sweet buns are marked with a cross on top, symbolizing the crucifixion of Jesus, which is a significant aspect of Easter for Christians. These buns are perfect for enjoying on Easter morning or throughout the holiday festivities.

Originating in England, hot cross buns have been a part of Easter traditions for centuries. They are typically made with a yeast do...

Originating in England, hot cross buns have been a part of Easter traditions for centuries. They are typically made with a yeast dough that is flavored with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, and studded with dried fruits like currants or raisins. The cross on top of the buns is usually made with a simple flour and water paste that is piped onto the bun before baking. This not only adds a decorative touch but also gives the buns their distinctive name.

While hot cross buns can be found in bakeries and grocery stores during the Easter season, there's nothing quite like making them from scratch at home. The aroma of warm spices and freshly baked bread filling the kitchen is enough to bring joy to anyone's heart. Plus, homemade hot cross buns are a wonderful way to carry on the tradition of this beloved Easter treat.

Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, making hot cross buns is a satisfying and rewarding experience. The process may take some time, as the dough needs to rise and the buns need to bake, but the end result is well worth the effort. And with this recipe, you can customize the buns to your liking, whether you prefer a more traditional version or want to add a modern twist by incorporating different spices or fillings.

So, if you're looking to add a touch of sweetness and tradition to your Easter celebration, consider making a batch of hot cross buns. They are the perfect accompaniment to a holiday brunch or can be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee any time of day. And with each bite, you'll be reminded of the meaning and significance of Easter while delighting in a delicious homemade treat.

¾ cup lukewarm milk, divided
1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast
1 teaspoon white sugar
3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, divided, or more as needed
¼ cup white sugar
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground allspice
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ cup softened butter
2 large eggs
¾ cup golden raisins, chopped
2 tablespoons orange marmalade
1 egg white
1 tablespoon milk
⅓ cup confectioners' sugar
1 ½ teaspoons milk

Information

Prep Time: 40 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Additional Time: 3 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs 52 mins
Servings: 16
Yield: 16 buns

Stir 1/4 cup milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar together in a small bowl; let stand until foamy, about 5 minutes.

Whisk 3 cups flour, 1/4 cup white sugar, salt, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and nutmeg together in a large bowl. Stir yeast mixture, 1/2 cup milk, softened butter, and eggs into flour mixture with a wooden spoon until well incorporated; stir in raisins and marmalade. Dough will be sticky.

Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup flour onto work surface; turn dough onto surface and knead, incorporating additional flour as needed, until tacky but not sticking to fingers, about 10 minutes. Form dough into a ball.

Place dough in a large, lightly-oiled bowl and turn to coat. Cover bowl with a clean towel and let dough rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 2 hours.

Deflate dough; divide into 16 equal pieces and form into round buns. Place buns 1 1/2 inches apart on a lightly greased baking sheets; cover with a light cloth and let rise until doubled in volume, about 40 minutes.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Whisk egg white and 1 tablespoon milk together in a small bowl. Use a sharp knife to score a deep cross on top of each bun; brush buns with egg wash.

Bake in the preheated oven until lightly browned, about 12 minutes. Remove to cool completely on a wire rack, about 15 minutes.

Place confectioners' sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons milk in a plastic sandwich bag; knead the bag until combined. Snip off one corner of the bag; pipe a cross into the scored lines on each bun.

Nutrition

186 cal.

Total Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 32mg
Sodium: 186mg
Total Carbohydrate: 33g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Total Sugars: 12g
Protein: 5g
Vitamin C: 0mg
Calcium: 30mg
Iron: 2mg
Potassium: 122mg

How to Make Easter Hot Cross Buns - A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

Information

Nutrition

186 cal.

Categories