Description
Hot Cross Buns are soft, lightly spiced sweet buns with raisins or currants, topped with a signature cross. Perfect for Easter or afternoon tea, these homemade buns are irresistibly fluffy and delicious. This easy recipe ensures your buns turn out golden, aromatic, and beautifully glazed every time!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
1 cup warm whole milk (110° to 115°F)
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
3 to 3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
3/4 cup raisins or currants
For the Cross & Glaze:
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
2 teaspoons milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Stir in sugar, melted butter, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and 1 cup of flour. Beat until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Gradually add remaining flour to form a soft dough.
- Knead on a floured surface for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
- Punch down dough and knead in raisins. Divide into 12 equal pieces and shape into balls.
- Arrange balls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown.
- Mix confectioners' sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pipe a cross over each cooled bun.
Notes
Swap raisins for cranberries or orange zest for a twist.
To make them vegan, use dairy-free butter and flax eggs.
For extra spice, add a pinch of ginger or allspice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bread, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British, Easter
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 buns
- Calories: 210 kcal
