Hot cross buns are a traditional Easter treat that is enjoyed by people all around the world. These buns are made with a sweet, spiced dough and are studded with raisins or currants. The buns are then topped with a cross made of icing or pastry, which is meant to symbolize the crucifixion of Jesus. In this article, we will be sharing our favorite hot cross bun recipe that you can easily make at home.
Ingredients
For the buns:
4 cups of all-purpose flour
1/4 cup of sugar
1 teaspoon of salt
1 packet of active dry yeast
1 teaspoon of cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon of allspice
1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
1 cup of warm milk
1 egg
1/2 cup of raisins or currants
For the crosses:
1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
1/4 cup of water
For the glaze:
1/4 cup of sugar
1/4 cup of water
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice until well combined. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, warm milk, and egg until well combined. 3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms. 4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. 5. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size. 6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). 7. Punch down the dough and knead in the raisins or currants. 8. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. 9. Place the balls of dough on a greased baking sheet and let rise for another 30 minutes. 10. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and water until a smooth paste forms. 11. Transfer the paste to a piping bag or ziplock bag with a corner snipped off. 12. Pipe a cross onto each ball of dough. 13. Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. 14. While the buns are baking, make the glaze by combining the sugar and water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil. 15. Brush the glaze over the hot buns as soon as they come out of the oven. 16. Let the buns cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Each serving of hot cross buns (1 bun) contains approximately:
Calories: 250
Protein: 6g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 260mg
Conclusion
Making hot cross buns at home is not as difficult as it may seem. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create delicious buns that are perfect for Easter or any time of the year. Serve them warm with butter or jam, or enjoy them as a snack with a cup of tea. Happy baking!