Description
Indulge in the tradition of Easter with these delightful Hot Cross Buns. Soft, spiced dough infused with plump sultanas and adorned with a sweet maple glaze make these buns a quintessential treat for your spring celebrations. Perfect for sharing at brunch or enjoying during a cozy family dinner, their warm aroma and beautiful cross design add a touch of joy to any gathering. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite dried fruits, these Hot Cross Buns are sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
Ingredients
Scale
- ½ cup warm water
- ½ cup warm milk
- ½ cup plus 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 4 teaspoons active dried yeast
- ⅓ cup butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups bread flour or plain flour
- 1 tablespoon mixed spice or pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sultanas or mixed dried fruit
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, one tablespoon of brown sugar, and yeast. Let sit for about 2 minutes until frothy.
- Mix melted butter with remaining brown sugar, then beat in the egg. Add salt, cinnamon, mixed spice, vanilla extract, and sultanas.
- Combine yeast mixture with the spice mixture and gradually stir in the flour until a slightly tacky dough forms.
- Knead the dough by hand or using a stand mixer for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Divide dough into twelve pieces and shape into balls. Place in a greased baking dish allowing space between each bun.
- Cover and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size (30 minutes to an hour).
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pipe a flour-water mixture across risen buns to create crosses and bake for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush with maple syrup glaze immediately after baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Traditional
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 246
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 189mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 21mg
Keywords: Customize your buns by using raisins or chocolate chips instead of sultanas for different flavor profiles. Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising; check expiration dates before use.