Spiced Hot Cross Buns a Classic Easter Treat

Recipe Introduction

Craving a taste of Easter? Honestly, is there anything better than the smell of warm spices filling your kitchen? This hot cross buns recipe is like a hug in bread form.

Perfect for sharing and making Easter memories.

Quick Hook: Spiced Bliss

Have you ever bit into a warm, spiced bun and felt pure joy? This hot cross buns recipe brings that feeling home.

It combines fragrant spices and juicy fruit for a flavor explosion.

What are Hot Cross Buns?

These delightfully spiced and fruited traditional Easter treats are a timeless classic. Originating from England, they are traditionally eaten on Good Friday.

My nan always had a batch ready! This recipe is a medium difficulty. Total time approximately 3- 4 hours and makes around 12 buns.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These aren't just any buns. They're soft, homemade hot cross buns ! The cinnamon and allspice are so good for you, full of antioxidants! I've made them countless times, and they're always a hit.

They are the best hot cross bun recipe , trust me!

Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Hot Cross Bun Recipe

So, you fancy making some homemade hot cross buns ? Ace! Let's make sure you've got everything you need. I reckon baking these is one of the traditional easter treats that everyone should try at least once.

Seriously, it's easier than you think.

Main Hot Cross Buns Ingredients

• Mixed Dried Fruit: 1 cup (240ml) – Get good quality stuff. We're talking juicy, not rock hard.
• Orange Juice: 1/2 cup (120ml) – Fresh is best, but carton juice works too.
• Orange Zest: From 1 orange Smells amazing.
• Lukewarm Milk: 1 cup (240ml) – Around 105- 115° F (40- 46° C) . Not too hot, not too cold, just right.
• Active Dry Yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) – That's one packet.
• Granulated Sugar: 1/4 cup (50g) plus a pinch.
• All-Purpose Flour: 4 cups (500g) plus extra for dusting.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon .
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon .
• Ground Allspice: 1/2 teaspoon .
• Ground Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon .
• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (113g) , softened.
• Large Eggs: 2, lightly beaten.
• All-Purpose Flour (for crosses): 1/2 cup (60g) .
• Water (for crosses): 1/4 cup (60ml) .
• Apricot Jam: 1/4 cup (60ml) .
• Water (for glaze): 1 tablespoon .

Seasoning Notes for the Spiced Bun Recipe

Cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg? That's the magic combo! This makes your buns smell like Easter dreams. Don't have allspice? Use a pinch of ground cloves or a bit of ginger! A fruited buns recipe really shines with warm spices.

Feel free to swap orange zest for lemon if you're feeling zesty.

Equipment Needed for this Easy Hot Cross Bun Recipe

Big bowl. Don't we all have one? Baking sheet. Gotta bake 'em somehow. Parchment paper. Makes life easier. Small saucepan.

For the glaze. Pastry bag or Ziploc. For the crosses. Honestly, a sandwich bag with a corner snipped off works a treat.

I love a good baking session! Hope you have fun making this hot cross buns recipe ! The smell alone is worth the effort.

Plus, who can resist a warm, easy hot cross bun recipe slathered in butter? These easter baking recipes are classics for a reason!.

Spiced Hot Cross Buns: A Classic Easter Treat

Honestly, is there anything that screams Easter more than a batch of freshly baked, gloriously spiced buns recipe ? The aroma alone fills the house with such warmth and joy.

This homemade hot cross buns recipe will guide you through creating these traditional easter treats right in your kitchen. And trust me, once you try these, you’ll ditch the supermarket versions faster than you can say "Happy Easter"!

Prep Steps: Setting the Stage for Baking Success

Let's get our ducks in a row, shall we? This is what the pros call mise en place .

• Essential Mise en Place: Get your hot cross buns ingredients measured out. Chop the dried fruit and zest your orange. Honestly, the orange zest really brightens the entire fruited buns recipe !
• Time Saving Organization Tips: Soak the dried fruit in orange juice and zest before you even think about starting the dough. You can even do this the night before. Total game changer.
• Safety Reminders: When working with lukewarm milk, make sure it's not too hot. You don't want to kill the yeast that's a baker's worst nightmare.

step-by-step Process: Baking Magic in Action

Ready to transform some simple ingredients into deliciousness? Here's how to nail this easy hot cross bun recipe .

1. Soak the dried fruit, orange juice, and zest for at least 30 minutes . Overnight is even better!
2. Proof the yeast in lukewarm milk (around 105- 115° F or 40- 46° C) with a pinch of sugar. Wait 5- 10 minutes until it's foamy. This means your yeast is alive and ready to work.
3. Combine the remaining sugar, flour, salt, and spices. I love adding a little nutmeg for extra warmth, especially for this easter baking recipes !
4. Mix in the softened butter and lightly beaten eggs. It will be a shaggy dough at first, don't panic!
5. Knead the dough for 8- 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. It should be slightly tacky.
6. Gently knead in the soaked fruit. Drain any excess liquid first. Nobody wants a soggy bun!
7. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1. 5 hours , or until doubled.
8. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 20- 25 minutes , until golden brown. Glaze immediately.

Pro Tips: Elevating Your Hot Cross Buns

Want to go from good to best hot cross bun recipe ever? Here are a few tricks!

• Expert Technique: For an extra shiny hot cross buns glaze , brush the buns while they are still hot from the oven.
• Common Mistake: Over kneading the dough can make the buns tough. Knead until smooth and elastic, not sticky.
• make-ahead Option: You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the fridge overnight. It slows down the baking with yeast , giving a better flavor.

And there you have it! I truly hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Happy baking and Happy Easter!

Recipe Notes: Nailing Your Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Okay, so you’re about to embark on your homemade hot cross buns journey? Awesome! Before you dive into this easy hot cross bun recipe , let's chat about a few things that'll help you bake the best hot cross bun recipe ever.

Trust me, I’ve had my share of baking fails (burnt bottoms, anyone?), so I'm here to share my wisdom and hopefully save you from some kitchen disasters.

Serving Suggestions: Show Off Your Spiced Buns!

Presentation is key, you know? These traditional Easter treats deserve to be shown off.

• Plating and Presentation Ideas: First, let them cool slightly. Then, arrange them artfully on a platter. Dust with a tiny bit of icing sugar for that 'just out of the bakery' look. Honestly, that makes all the difference.
• Complementary Sides or Beverages: Warm fruited buns recipe go perfectly with a simple cuppa Earl Grey is my personal fav. If you want to get fancy, serve them with a dollop of clotted cream. Alternatively, hot cross buns glaze can be served on a separate little container

Storage Tips: Keeping Your Hot Cross Buns Ingredients Fresh

So, you baked a batch of these delightful spiced bun recipe . How do you keep them tasting their best?

• Refrigeration Guidelines: If you somehow manage to not eat them all on day one, store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Freezing Options: Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap each bun individually in cling film, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheating Instructions: To reheat, thaw them at room temperature, then pop them in a warm oven (around 300° F or 150° C ) for a few minutes. Or, toast them!

Variations: Putting Your Own Spin on Easter Baking Recipes

Want to get a bit creative? This recipe is super flexible.

• Dietary Adaptations: Swap regular milk for almond milk for a dairy-free version. You can also use gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may change slightly.
• Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: Swap out the mixed dried fruit for cranberries and orange peel during the winter months. It will give it a nice festive vibe, you know?

Nutrition Basics: What's Inside?

Okay, I'm not a nutritionist, but here's a simplified breakdown:

• Simplified Nutrition Information: Each bun will have carbs (obvs!), some fats from the butter, and a bit of protein.
• Key Health Benefits: All the dried fruits add some fiber. So, you know, it’s not just a sweet treat.

In conclusion, baking is all about having fun and being a bit experimental. Don't be afraid to tweak the recipe and make it your own.

Happy baking with yeast and enjoy those hot cross buns !

Frequently Asked Questions

My hot cross buns didn't rise properly. What went wrong?

Ah, the dreaded flat bun! Several factors can affect the rise. Firstly, ensure your yeast is fresh and activated properly in lukewarm milk (not too hot, or you'll kill it!). Secondly, make sure the dough proofs in a warm, draft free environment.

Lastly, over kneading or under kneading can also impact the rise, so aim for that sweet spot of smooth, elastic dough.

Can I make this hot cross buns recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to the first proof, then refrigerate it overnight. The cool temperature slows down the yeast activity. The next day, take the dough out, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then continue with shaping, the second proof, and baking as directed in the hot cross buns recipe.

How do I store hot cross buns and how long do they last?

To keep your hot cross buns fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll generally stay soft and delicious for 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.

When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature and warm them slightly in the oven or microwave.

Can I use different dried fruit in my hot cross buns?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your dried fruit mix. While the classic recipe uses raisins, currants, and sultanas, you could also incorporate dried cranberries, apricots, or even chopped dates.

Just be sure to keep the total quantity roughly the same as in the recipe, about 1 cup (240ml), to maintain the right moisture balance in the dough. A good blend of flavors really makes the buns special.

Help! My crosses are disappearing when the buns bake. What am I doing wrong?

This is a common baking woe! The consistency of your cross paste is key. It should be thick enough to hold its shape but thin enough to pipe easily. Too thin, and it will spread and disappear in the oven. Also, don't let the dough over proof with the crosses already on top, as they'll just sink in as the dough expands.

Are hot cross buns bad for you? What's the nutritional lowdown?

Hot cross buns are definitely a treat, rather than an everyday staple! They contain sugar, butter, and white flour, which means they are relatively high in calories and carbs. However, they also provide some fiber from the dried fruit and a bit of protein.

Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet, and perhaps pair them with a healthy breakfast to balance things out. And hey, a little indulgence never hurt anyone!