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Freshly baked traditional hot cross buns on a wooden surface.

Hot Cross Buns

Delightful spiced buns filled with dried fruits and topped with a signature cross, perfect for Easter or any occasion.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 12 buns
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: British
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour Essential base for a fluffy texture.
  • 1/4 cup sugar Adds sweetness to balance the spices.
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast Helps the dough rise for a light bun.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Infuses a warm, aromatic layer.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg Adds a unique, spicy richness.
  • 1/2 cup flour mixed with water Used to create a paste for the cross.
Wet Ingredients
  • 1 cup milk Provides moisture and rich flavor.
  • 1/4 cup butter Contributes to a tender crumb.
  • 2 large eggs Binds the ingredients and aids in rising.
  • 1/4 cup apricot jam Gives a glossy finish and extra sweetness.
Fruits
  • 1 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, or sultanas) Introduces sweet bursts of flavor.
  • 1/4 cup candied orange peel Offers a citrusy zing and texture.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  2. Warm the milk and butter together until they are just lukewarm.
  3. Stir the milk mixture into the dry ingredients until well blended.
  4. Incorporate the eggs into the mixture, beating until smooth.
  5. Add the mixed dried fruit and candied orange peel, stirring to combine.
Dough Handling
  1. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  2. Place the dough in a greased bowl, covering it with a cloth, and let it rise until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
Baking
  1. Punch down the risen dough, divide it into equal pieces, and shape them into buns.
  2. Arrange the buns on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
  3. Pipe the flour paste over the buns to create crosses.
  4. Allow the buns to rise again for about 30 minutes.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Brush the warm buns with apricot jam once they are out of the oven.

Notes

These buns can be made ahead of time and warmed up for breakfast. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days or freeze for longer storage.