classic hot cross buns recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best classic hot cross buns recipe

I have been making hot cross buns for Easter for as long as I can remember, and this classic recipe is the one I always come back to. My kids love helping me shape the dough and pipe the crosses on top, and the whole house smells amazing while they bake. These buns are a perfect treat for a holiday breakfast or an afternoon snack, and they are surprisingly simple to put together with basic pantry ingredients.

What I really appreciate about this recipe is that it uses standard baking staples like flour, yeast, and spices, with dried fruit for natural sweetness. The whole wheat flour option adds a bit of fiber, and the spices like cinnamon and nutmeg offer anti-inflammatory benefits. This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a traditional baked good without any artificial additives, and it always brings my family together around the table.

Classic Hot Cross Buns

4.8 from 1733 votes

These soft, spiced buns are studded with raisins and finished with a simple cross and glaze. They are a traditional Easter treat that is easy to make at home.

Prep Time2 hours
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 20 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1/2 cup raisins or currants
1/4 cup candied orange peel (optional)

For the Cross

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup water

For the Glaze

1/4 cup apricot jam or honey
2 tbsp water

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add raisins and orange peel during the last 2 minutes of kneading.
5Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
6Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7Cover the buns with a clean towel and let rise for another 30 minutes.
8Preheat oven to 375°F. For the cross, mix flour and water into a smooth paste. Pipe crosses onto each bun using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped.
9Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
10While buns bake, make the glaze by heating jam or honey with water until melted. Brush over warm buns.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or stand mixer
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Pastry brush

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 40mg🧂Sodium: 210mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

You can substitute whole wheat flour for half the all-purpose flour for a heartier texture. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and vegan butter.

Watch Video Of How Classic Hot Cross Buns Works

This classic hot cross buns recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate spring and bring a homemade touch to your Easter table. My family looks forward to them every year, and they are just as good for a simple weekend baking project. I hope you give them a try and enjoy the warm, spiced aroma filling your kitchen.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hot Cross Buns

1. Can I make hot cross buns ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough through step 6, then cover and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, let the shaped buns come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. You can also freeze baked buns for up to 3 months.

2. Why did my buns turn out dense and heavy?

Dense buns usually mean the dough did not rise enough. Make sure your yeast is fresh and your milk is warm but not too hot. Also, be careful not to over-knead the dough, which can develop too much gluten and make it tough.

3. Can I use different dried fruits or spices?

Absolutely. You can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or dried cherries. For spices, try adding a pinch of allspice or cloves along with the cinnamon and nutmeg. Just keep the total amount of dried fruit around 1/2 cup.

4. What is the best way to store leftover hot cross buns?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them soft, you can wrap them in a clean kitchen towel. If they get a little stale, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast them lightly.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. The dough will be stickier, so you may need to add a little extra flour when shaping. The texture will be a bit more delicate, but the flavor will still be great.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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