Hot Cross Buns Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted to capture the heartwarming, fragrant joy of springtime in a bun, look no further than this Hot Cross Buns Recipe. These soft, lightly spiced buns studded with plump currants and topped with iconic crosses are a classic treat that never fails to bring a smile. With a perfect balance of sweet and spice, and a shiny glaze that wraps each bun like a gift, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves baking from the heart—and from scratch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients is all it takes to create these delightful buns. Each component plays a crucial role: from the richly flavored butter and cinnamon-infused flour to the juicy currants that add bursts of sweetness. Together, they build the classic soft texture and inviting aroma that make this Hot Cross Buns Recipe so irresistible.

• Active dried yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons): The magic starter that makes the dough rise beautifully and become wonderfully airy.
• Water (½ cup, about 100°F / 38°C): Just the right temperature to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Milk (1 cup, whole or 2% preferred): Adds creaminess and tenderness to the dough’s crumb.
• Butter (4 tablespoons): Melted for richness and a soft, buttery flavor throughout each bun.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup): Sweetens just enough to complement the spices and fruit without overpowering.
• All-purpose flour (4 cups, plus up to ½ cup more): The structure provider, adjusted as needed to get the perfect dough consistency.
• Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): A warm spice that is signature to classic hot cross buns.
• Allspice (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle complexity that deepens the flavor profile.
• Orange zest (1 teaspoon, optional): Gives a refreshing citrus brightness that elevates the spices.
• Salt (1 ½ teaspoons): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Currants, sultanas, or a mix (1 cup): These little bursts of fruity sweetness are essential to get that traditional bun experience.
• Flour (⅓ cup): Used to make the paste for the iconic hot cross marks atop the buns.
• Water (4 tablespoons): Mixed with flour to create the perfect paste for piping crosses.
• Icing sugar (1 cup): For the shiny glaze that makes these buns gleam.
• Orange juice or water (3 tablespoons): Adds flavor and smoothness to the glaze brushing.

How to Make Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Step 1: Activate Yeast and Combine Liquid Ingredients

This first step gets your dough ready to rise beautifully. Sprinkle the yeast into the warm water and let it bubble and foam—that bubbly yeast is a sign that it’s alive and ready to work. Meanwhile, whisk together the milk, butter, and sugar to create a creamy, sweet base. Once the yeast has activated, successfully whisk it into the milk mixture to combine all your liquid ingredients.

Step 2: Make Dough

Time to bring the dry and wet ingredients together. Mix your flour with the warming spices, orange zest if you’re using it, and salt in the bowl of your stand mixer. Add the milk mixture and knead using a hook attachment for 5 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a tablespoon of flour at a time—perfect dough texture is key for soft buns.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover your bowl tightly with plastic wrap to trap in warmth and moisture, then let the dough sit at room temperature for about an hour. During this time, the dough will double in size as the yeast ferments, developing that airy structure that makes hot cross buns so importantly fluffy.

Step 4: Add Raisins

After your dough has puffed up, punch it down gently and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll or spread it into a thick rectangle, then scatter your currants, sultanas, or a combination evenly across the dough. Fold the dough over the fruit and knead a few times just to incorporate the raisins evenly throughout every bite.

Step 5: Second Rise

Return your fruit-laden dough to the bowl, cover with plastic wrap again, and let it rise for another 30 to 60 minutes until it doubles in size once more. This second rise ensures your buns bake up soft and full of air pockets that melt in your mouth.

Step 6: Shape

Lightly butter a 9×13 inch baking pan—this keeps your buns from sticking and helps form that gorgeous golden crust. Punch down the dough, then carefully divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each one into a smooth ball, pinching seams underneath so the tops are perfectly round and even. Place these seam-side down in your prepared pan—this little detail makes all the difference in the final look.

Step 7: Third Rise

Cover your shaped buns with plastic wrap once again and let them rise at room temperature until each bun is big, puffy, and ready to bake, about 20 to 30 minutes. This last proof is what gives each bun a light and fluffy texture that’s utterly delightful.

Step 8: Add Crosses and Bake

Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). Mix the flour and water until you create a thick paste that can be piped. Fill a piping bag and expertly pipe crosses over the surface of each bun—the iconic signature of hot cross buns! Pop them into the oven for 25 to 35 minutes, baking until they turn a deep golden brown and smell like heaven.

Step 9: Glaze

While the buns are still warm, prepare the glaze by gently heating the icing sugar with orange juice or water until the glaze turns clear and glossy. Brush each bun generously for that shining finish and a slight citrus hint, making these buns look as special as they taste.

How to Serve Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Garnishes

Serving up your hot cross buns with a slather of butter is an absolute classic—you get that luscious melt-in-your-mouth richness with every bite. For something decadent, try a dollop of clotted cream or a thin spread of cream cheese. Fresh orange zest sprinkled over the glaze adds a lovely, zesty pop that brightens every mouthful.

Side Dishes

These buns are perfect on their own, but pairing them with a steaming cup of tea, coffee, or even hot chocolate elevates the experience. For a brunch spread, they’re delightful alongside scrambled eggs or a simple fruit salad, balancing sweet, savory, and fresh flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow guests, create a layering display by stacking the buns on a pretty cake stand or platter, with extra glaze brushed before serving. You can also slice them in half, toast lightly, and fill with your favorite jams or preserves for a fun twist that’s both nostalgic and fresh.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap any leftover hot cross buns tightly in plastic wrap or keep them in an airtight container to maintain their softness. Stored this way, they’ll stay fresh for up to two days—perfect if you want to savor them slowly without rushing.

Freezing

These buns freeze wonderfully. Just wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When frozen, they keep for up to three months—ready to be enjoyed whenever a craving hits or when you want fresh bakery vibes at home.

Reheating

To bring frozen or leftover buns back to life, thaw at room temperature or overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. You can also microwave briefly—wrapped in a damp paper towel—to keep them soft and moist.

FAQs

Can I substitute the currants for other dried fruit?

Absolutely! Raisins, sultanas, chopped dried apricots, or even dried cranberries work wonderfully. The key is to pick dried fruits that will plump well during baking, adding delicious bursts of sweetness throughout your buns.

Do I need a stand mixer for this Hot Cross Buns Recipe?

While a stand mixer with a hook attachment makes kneading easier and quicker, you can definitely mix and knead by hand. It just takes a bit more elbow grease—think of it as a satisfying workout with a delicious reward!

Why are my buns dense and not fluffy?

This usually means the dough didn’t rise enough or the yeast wasn’t fully activated. Make sure your water temperature is just right—too hot can kill the yeast, and too cold won’t activate it properly. Also, giving each rise enough time is crucial for that perfect fluffiness.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can swap the dairy milk and butter for plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan margarine. Just watch that the yeast activation step uses a warm water temperature that won’t harm the yeast. The buns may have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious.

How long do hot cross buns stay fresh without refrigeration?

When stored in an airtight container or wrapped well at room temperature, hot cross buns usually stay fresh for about two days. After that, refrigeration or freezing is best to keep them from drying out or going stale.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about taking the time to bake hot cross buns from scratch, especially with a recipe that guides you through every step like this Hot Cross Buns Recipe does. The smell filling your kitchen, the anticipation as they rise and bake, and the joy of sharing them warm and fresh is unbeatable. Give this recipe a try and watch how these buns bring warmth and delight to your table—they’re more than just a treat, they’re an experience you’ll want to repeat.

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