Hot Crossed Buns Recipe

There is something truly magical about baking and sharing a batch of warm, fragrant Hot Crossed Buns Recipe that fills your home with comforting spices and invites smiles all around. This classic British treat, traditionally enjoyed around Easter, combines the perfect balance of soft, buttery dough studded with sweet currants and a hint of citrus from the candied peel. The characteristic cross on top and the shiny glaze give these buns their iconic look and delicious appeal. Once you try this Hot Crossed Buns Recipe, you’ll find it becoming a beloved staple for breakfast or teatime indulgence that you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating the perfect Hot Crossed Buns Recipe starts with a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role in building those tender, flavorful buns. From the warmth of the milk activating the yeast to the fragrant spices that layer flavor, every element is essential for that authentic taste and texture.

• Warm milk (1 cup): Helps activate the yeast and provides moisture for a soft dough.
• Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): The magic that makes the buns rise and get fluffy.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the dough and aids yeast fermentation.
• All-purpose flour (4 cups): The foundation of the bun’s structure.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Gives that classic warm spice note.
• Ground nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): Adds depth and a subtle earthiness.
• Ground allspice (1/4 teaspoon): Complements other spices for complexity.
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, softened): Offers richness and tenderness to the crumb.
• Large eggs (2): Bind ingredients and enrich the dough.
• Dried currants or raisins (1 cup): Provide bursts of sweetness and texture.
• Mixed candied peel (1/4 cup, optional): Adds citrus brightness and color contrast.
• Egg yolk mixed with water (for egg wash): Brings a golden, glossy finish to the buns.

How to Make Hot Crossed Buns Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining warm milk with active dry yeast in a small bowl, and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it becomes foamy and bubbly — this means the yeast is alive and eager to get to work.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and the warming spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. This simple blend lays the flavor foundation and ensures those spices distribute evenly throughout the dough.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry

Add softened butter, eggs, and the activated yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix everything until a soft dough forms, sticky yet manageable. This is where the transformation begins from simple ingredients to soft, aromatic buns.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn your dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth, elastic, and just a little springy to the touch. If you prefer, use a stand mixer with a dough hook to save time and effort. This kneading develops the gluten, giving your buns their tender but structured crumb.

Step 5: Add the Fruit

Gently knead in dried currants or raisins along with the candied peel if you’re using it. These sweet pops of fruit will add delightful texture and bursts of flavor in every bite.

Step 6: First Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours. The dough should nearly double in size, becoming airy and light.

Step 7: Shape the Buns

Punch down the dough to release the air and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each piece into smooth balls and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch pan, leaving a little space for expansion. Cover and allow the buns to rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until beautifully puffy.

Step 8: Prepare and Pipe the Cross

Mix 1/2 cup of flour with enough water to form a thick paste. Spoon this mixture into a piping bag or a plastic bag with the tip snipped off. Carefully pipe a neat cross over the top of every bun—it’s the hallmark of this Hot Crossed Buns Recipe and adds a lovely rustic charm.

Step 9: Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the buns with the egg yolk and water wash for that golden sheen. Bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes until the buns are golden brown and smell irresistible.

Step 10: Glaze and Cool

While the buns bake, prepare your glaze by heating sugar and water until the sugar dissolves into a shiny syrup. Right after taking the buns from the oven, brush them generously with this glaze to lock in moisture and add a sweet finish. Let them cool slightly before serving—though it’s tough to wait!

How to Serve Hot Crossed Buns Recipe

Garnishes

Lightly buttered and perhaps with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, hot crossed buns are sublime. For a fresh twist, try a smear of cream cheese or a dollop of clotted cream to complement the spices and fruit.

Side Dishes

These buns pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee. For a more substantial spread, serve alongside soft cheeses, fresh fruit, or even a savory egg dish to contrast the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice buns in half and toast them lightly for extra crunch. You can even make mini sandwiches by adding sharp cheddar or honey for a delightful sweet-savory bite that surprises and delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. They’ll remain soft and ready for a quick snack or breakfast the next day.

Freezing

To enjoy your Hot Crossed Buns Recipe any time, freeze cooled buns individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat buns gently in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20 seconds for a warm, soft treat like freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I substitute dried currants with other dried fruits?

Absolutely! Raisins, chopped dried apricots, or cranberries all work beautifully and can bring a new flavor profile to your Hot Crossed Buns Recipe.

Is it necessary to make the cross with flour and water paste?

The flour paste creates the distinctive cross shape and texture on top of the buns. Though optional, this feature adds authenticity and a pleasant bite contrast.

Can I make these buns vegan?

Yes, by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative, using a flax egg or other egg replacer, and ensuring your glaze and yeast are vegan-friendly, you can enjoy a vegan Hot Crossed Buns Recipe.

Why don’t my buns rise properly?

Proper rising depends on fresh yeast and a warm environment. Make sure your milk is not too hot or cold and that the dough is covered during rising to trap warmth and moisture.

How do I get the glaze shiny without making it too sweet?

You can reduce the glaze sugar slightly or brush only a thin layer on the buns. Using the glaze warm helps it adhere well and gives a glossy finish without overpowering sweetness.

Final Thoughts

There is such joy in baking Hot Crossed Buns Recipe from scratch; it brings a comforting tradition into your kitchen that everyone will cherish. Whether you savor them fresh from the oven or toasted with butter alongside your favorite morning beverage, these buns promise to become a treasured homemade delight. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and make some magic happen in your oven today!

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