These Soft Hot Cross Buns are a classic Easter treat that’s perfect for celebrating the season! Soft, spiced, and studded with dried fruit, these buns are topped with a traditional cross and a glossy apricot glaze. Whether you enjoy them warm with butter or as a sweet snack, they’re sure to bring joy to your table. Let’s bake a batch!
Ingredients
For the Buns:
4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 🍚
1/2 cup granulated sugar 🍚
2 packets (4 1/2 teaspoons) active dry yeast 🧫
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 🌿
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 🌿
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 🌿
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 🌿
1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/45°C) 🥛
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted 🧈
2 large eggs 🥚🥚
1 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, chopped apricots, etc.) 🍇
For the Crosses:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour 🍚
4-5 tablespoons water 💧
For the Glaze:
1/4 cup apricot preserves 🍑
1 tablespoon water 💧
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs until well combined. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a soft, sticky dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Add the Dried Fruit
Punch down the risen dough and knead in the mixed dried fruit until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Shape the Buns
Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and roll each piece into a smooth, round ball. Arrange the balls on a greased baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Cover the buns with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 6: Make the Crosses
In a small bowl, mix together the 1/2 cup of flour and 4-5 tablespoons of water until a smooth paste forms. Transfer the paste to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip (or use a plastic bag with the corner snipped off). Pipe crosses onto the top of each bun.
Step 7: Bake the Buns
Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top and produce a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze by heating the apricot preserves and 1 tablespoon of water in a small saucepan over medium heat until melted and smooth. Strain if necessary to remove any fruit pieces.
Step 9: Glaze the Buns
Remove the buns from the oven and brush the tops with the apricot glaze while they are still warm.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the buns cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these Soft Hot Cross Buns warm or at room temperature, with butter or your favorite spreads.
Tips and Variations
- Add Citrus Zest: Stir in the zest of an orange or lemon for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Customize the Dried Fruit: Use your favorite dried fruits, such as cranberries, cherries, or figs.
- Make It Spicier: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice for an extra layer of warmth.
- Freeze for Later: Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Soft and Fluffy: These buns are incredibly soft and tender, with a perfect crumb.
✅ Spiced and Sweet: The blend of spices and dried fruit creates a warm, comforting flavor.
✅ Traditional and Festive: A classic Easter treat that’s perfect for sharing.
✅ Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins or spices to make them your own.
Prep Time: 2 hours (including rising time)
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12 buns
These Soft Hot Cross Buns are a delightful way to celebrate Easter or any special occasion. Whether you’re baking them for family, friends, or just because, they’re sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Enjoy! 🐰🍞😊
Final Thoughts
This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a traditional treat with a homemade touch. The combination of warm spices, sweet dried fruit, and a soft, fluffy texture makes these buns irresistible. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of these delicious hot cross buns!