Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Introduction

This hot cross buns recipe creates fluffy, lightly spiced buns with sweet dried fruit and a soft, rich crumb. The glossy tops and classic icing cross make them instantly recognizable, while the homemade dough gives them a much better texture than store-bought versions. They are ideal for Easter breakfast, spring brunch, or an afternoon treat served warm with butter.

Ingredients

• 4 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon mixed spice or allspice
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup raisins or currants
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the icing: 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk

Steps

1. Combine the warm milk, yeast, and a spoonful of sugar in a bowl. Let stand until foamy.
2. Whisk in the remaining sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla.
3. Mix the flour, salt, cinnamon, and mixed spice in a separate bowl.
4. Add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until a dough begins to form.
5. Knead the dough until smooth, then work in the raisins.
6. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
7. Divide into 12 buns, shape them neatly, and place close together in a baking dish.
8. Let rise again for 30 minutes while the oven heats to 375°F (190°C).
9. Bake until evenly golden and cooked through, about 20 minutes.
10. Cool slightly and pipe a simple icing cross over the tops before serving.

Tips

• Use bread flour if you want extra lift and chew in the buns.
• Space the buns close together so they pull apart beautifully after baking.
• A little orange zest in the dough adds a lovely spring flavor.
• Brush the buns lightly with warm apricot jam for a glossy bakery-style finish.

Conclusion

This hot cross buns recipe is a lovely way to bring a traditional Easter bake into your kitchen. The buns are soft, fragrant, and satisfying, with just enough sweetness and spice to make them feel special. They are the kind of homemade treat that quickly becomes a family favorite.