Traditional Hot Cross Buns

There’s something undeniably magical about the smell of Traditional Hot Cross Buns wafting through the kitchen. As you knead the dough, you can almost hear the distant echoes of Easter celebrations and cozy family gatherings. The soft, pillowy texture and sweet, spiced aroma draw you in like a moth to a flame, promising an experience that goes beyond mere taste.

Growing up, I remember baking these buns with my grandmother. It was a tradition that filled our home with laughter and delightful chaos as flour flew everywhere. The anticipation of biting into those warm, glazed buns was enough to make anyone giddy with excitement. They were not just food they were a symbol of togetherness and joy during special occasions.

Every time I bake these buns, my friends rave about how they taste just like grandma used to make.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best rise and texture in your buns.
• Active Dry Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising power.
• Milk: Warm milk enhances the dough’s richness avoid boiling it.
• Butter: Softened butter adds moisture don’t skimp on this ingredient.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar balances flavors and helps activate the yeast.
• Eggs: Eggs enrich the dough and create that lovely golden color.
• Mixed Spices (Cinnamon & Nutmeg): A generous sprinkle brings warmth and depth to each bite.
• Dried Fruit (Currants or Raisins): The sweetness of dried fruit adds delightful bursts of flavor.
• Glaze (Apricot Jam): A light glaze gives these buns their shiny finish and extra sweetness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Dough: Start by warming your milk to about 110°F (43°C). In a bowl, mix it with sugar and yeast let it sit until bubbly about 5 minutes.

Add Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and dried fruit. Once your yeast mixture is ready, add it along with melted butter and eggs.

Knead the Dough: Turn the mixture onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Your dough should feel soft but not sticky.

First Rise: Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size about 1 hour.

Shape the Buns: After rising, punch down the dough gently to release air bubbles. Divide into equal portions and shape each piece into a bun place them on a lined baking tray.

Second Rise & Preheat Oven: Cover shaped buns again with a cloth while you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Let them rise another 30 minutes until puffy.

Now that you’ve got these scrumptious Traditional Hot Cross Buns baked to perfection, don’t forget to brush them with apricot glaze while they’re still warm for that shiny finish Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter either way, you’re in for an indulgent treat that will have everyone begging for seconds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the dry ingredients before adding wet ones, ensuring even distribution of flavors. Knead until smooth, then let rise until doubled for fluffy buns that are hard to resist.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap dried fruits like currants or raisins with chocolate chips or nuts. A sprinkle of orange zest can brighten the flavor, making each bite even more delightful.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat them briefly in the microwave or toaster oven to restore their soft texture and warm aroma.

The first time I made Traditional Hot Cross Buns, my kitchen smelled like a bakery Friends couldn’t resist stopping by for a taste, turning a simple recipe into a cherished gathering.

FAQ

What is the origin of Traditional Hot Cross Buns?

Traditional Hot Cross Buns date back to 12th century England, often associated with Easter celebrations.

Can I make Traditional Hot Cross Buns ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dough a day earlier and refrigerate it overnight before baking.

How do I know when my buns are done baking?

Buns should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

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Traditional Hot Cross Buns

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Traditional Hot Cross Buns are a delightful Easter treat that fill your kitchen with the warm aroma of spices and sweet dough. Soft, pillowy, and glazed to perfection, these buns bring a touch of nostalgia and joy to any gathering. Perfectly suited for breakfast or as a cozy snack, they embody the spirit of togetherness during special occasions. Experience the magic of baking with this easy-to-follow recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 buns 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup mixed dried fruit (currants or raisins)
• 1/4 cup apricot jam (for glaze)

Instructions

1. Warm milk to about 110°F. In a bowl, mix warm milk with sugar and yeast; let sit until bubbly (about 5 minutes).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and dried fruit. Add the yeast mixture along with melted butter and eggs.
3. Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should feel soft but not sticky.
4. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
5. Punch down the risen dough gently, divide into equal portions, shape into buns, and place on a lined baking tray.
6. Cover shaped buns with a cloth while preheating oven to 375°F (190°C). Let them rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
7. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. Brush warmed apricot jam over buns while still warm for a shiny finish.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bun (75g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: For added flavor, substitute dried fruits with chocolate chips or nuts. A sprinkle of orange zest can brighten up the taste profile. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat as needed.