Hot cross buns are a traditional Easter treat enjoyed by many around the world. These sweet, spiced buns are soft, fluffy and are filled with raisins or currants. They are marked with a cross on the top, symbolizing the crucifixion of Jesus. In this article, we will give you a step-by-step guide on how to make hot cross buns from scratch.
Ingredients Needed to Make Hot Cross Buns Recipe
Before we get started, let's gather all the ingredients we need. Here is a list of the ingredients you will need to make hot cross buns:
- 4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 cups of warm milk
- 1/4 cup of melted butter
- 1 egg
- 1 cup of raisins or currants
- 1/2 cup of mixed candied peel
For the Marinade Hot Cross Buns Recipe
Now that we have all the ingredients, we can start with the marinade for the hot cross buns. Here is what you will need:
- 1/4 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
Kitchen Tools Needed Hot Cross Buns Recipe
Before we start making the dough, let's make sure we have all the necessary kitchen tools:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
How to Make Hot Cross Buns Recipe
Now that we have everything ready, let's start making our hot cross buns:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, yeast, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
- Make a well in the center of the mixture and add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
- Add the raisins or currants and the mixed candied peel to the dough. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased mixing bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Leave it to rise for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
- Punch the dough down and knead it again for a few minutes. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape them into buns.
- Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a damp cloth and leave them to rise for another 30-40 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix the water and sugar in a small bowl to make the marinade.
- Using a pastry brush, brush the marinade over the buns, making sure to cover the tops and sides. Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown.
- Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Once they have cooled, use a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner cut off to pipe crosses on the top of the buns using icing.
- Enjoy your delicious hot cross buns!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do hot cross buns last?
A: Hot cross buns can last up to 3-4 days if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I make hot cross buns without raisins or currants?
A: Yes, you can substitute raisins or currants with other dried fruits like cranberries or cherries.
Q: Can I make hot cross buns without a stand mixer?
A: Yes, you can knead the dough by hand if you don't have a stand mixer. It will take longer, but the result will be just as good.
Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
A: Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of dry yeast. Just add it directly to the flour mixture without proofing it in warm water.
Q: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: Yes, you can use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour. Bread flour has a higher protein content, which will result in a chewier bun.
Q: Can I make hot cross buns vegan?
A: Yes, you can use almond milk and vegan butter instead of regular milk and butter. You can also use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
Q: Can I make hot cross buns gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. However, the texture and taste may be different.
Q: Can I make hot cross buns ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking the buns.
Q: Can I add more spices to the dough?
A: Yes, you can add more spices like ginger, allspice, or cardamom to the dough for extra flavor.
Q: Can I add nuts to the dough?
A: Yes, you can add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the dough for added texture.
Q: Can I make mini hot cross buns?
A: Yes, you can divide the dough into smaller portions to make mini hot cross buns. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use a different type of glaze?
A: Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup instead of the sugar and water glaze.
Q: Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
A: Yes, you can add chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolate twist on the classic hot cross bun.
Q: Can I use a different type of fruit?
A: Yes, you can use dried cherries, cranberries, or apricots instead of raisins or currants.
Q: Can I use a different type of peel?
A: Yes, you can use orange or lemon zest instead of mixed candied peel.
Q: Can I make hot cross buns without the cross?
A: Yes, you can skip the cross on top of the buns if you prefer.
Q: Can I use a different type of icing?
A: Yes, you can use cream cheese icing or lemon icing instead of regular icing.
Q: Can I add more sugar to the dough?
A: Yes, you can add more sugar to the dough to make it sweeter.
Q: Can I use a different type of milk?
A: Yes, you can use any type of milk you prefer, such as almond milk or soy milk.
Q: Can I add more butter to the dough?
A: Yes, you can add more butter to the dough for a richer flavor.
Q: Can I make hot cross buns without yeast?
A: No, yeast is an essential ingredient in making hot cross buns. Without yeast, the buns will not rise properly.
Q: Can I use a different type of flour for the cross?
A: Yes, you can use rice flour or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour for the cross.