Traditional Hot Cross Buns Recipe

If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and brimming with cozy spices, look no further than this Traditional Hot Cross Buns Recipe. These delightful buns are soft, fragrant, and studded with sweet dried currants, which balance perfectly with the subtle warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because you want to brighten up your afternoon tea, this recipe delivers charming, golden buns topped with a delicate, tangy glaze that’s sure to bring a smile with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the first step to baking the perfect batch of Traditional Hot Cross Buns Recipe. Each component adds its own magic—from the richness of butter and eggs to the fragrant spices that give these buns their signature taste and inviting aroma. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure and soft crumb to the buns.
• 2 tsp active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise, creating that fluffy texture we love.
• 1 cup whole milk (warm): Adds moisture and richness, waking up the yeast.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens just enough and feeds the yeast for a good rise.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened): Brings tenderness and a buttery flavor.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses warmth and spice, a classic note in hot cross buns.
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty depth, enhancing the spice mix.
• 1 cup dried currants or raisins: For sweet bursts of chewy fruit throughout the buns.
• 2 large eggs: Bind and enrich the dough for a tender crumb.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates the sweet finishing touch that shines on top.
• Water or lemon juice (for glaze): Combined with powdered sugar for a tangy-sweet glaze that adds shine and a hint of brightness.

How to Make Traditional Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by waking up your yeast with warm milk and a teaspoon of sugar. Stir gently and let this mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy and alive with activity. This step is crucial because it ensures your buns will rise beautifully and have that irresistibly soft texture.

Step 2: Create the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, the remaining sugar, and a pinch of salt. Make a well in the center and pour in your softened butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture. Stir everything together until it forms a shaggy, workable dough that’s ready to knead.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Dust your countertop with flour and knead the dough by hand for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until it feels soft and smooth. This step develops the gluten, which gives your buns that perfect chew and lightness. Don’t rush—think of this kneading as your moment to connect with the dough.

Step 4: First Rise

Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and find a warm spot to let it rise until doubled in size, typically 1 to 2 hours. This slow fermentation deepens the flavor and creates air pockets that make your buns tender and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Fruits

Once your dough has risen beautifully, give it a gentle punch to release any large air bubbles. Fold in the dried currants or raisins evenly so that every bun will have sweet bursts of fruit in every bite.

Step 6: Shape Buns

Divide the dough into 12 to 15 equal portions and roll each piece into a neat ball. Placing them on a lined baking sheet ensures they won’t stick, and sizing your buns evenly means they bake at the same rate for uniform golden tops.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the shaped buns with your cloth again and let them rise for approximately 1 hour until they’ve doubled in size. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This second rise helps develop the buns’ final volume and ensures they’re soft inside with a slightly crisp outside.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the buns for 20 to 25 minutes, or until their tops turn a gorgeous golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end—this warm color signals that they are perfectly cooked and ready to be glazed.

Step 9: Glaze

Once out of the oven, allow the buns to cool slightly. Mix powdered sugar with a bit of water or lemon juice to make a smooth glaze, then drizzle it generously over the warm buns. This glaze adds a perfect glossy finish with a touch of sweetness and tang that complements the spices wonderfully.

How to Serve Traditional Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of cinnamon sugar or a light spread of softened butter enhances the warm spice notes. For extra flair, a small cross piped with icing or additional glaze can add the traditional signature look that makes these buns instantly recognizable and special.

Side Dishes

Traditional Hot Cross Buns Recipe all on their own are delicious, but consider pairing them with a steaming cup of chai or black tea to bring out the cinnamon and nutmeg flavors. A smear of clotted cream or a dollop of homemade jam can also add a delightful creamy or fruity contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, slice the buns in half and toast them lightly before topping with cream cheese and a drizzle of honey. You can also transform them into mini sandwiches with savory fillings like ham and cheese for a twist on the traditional serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, keep your hot cross buns in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to 2 days and retain their soft texture beautifully if wrapped well.

Freezing

To enjoy these buns later, freeze them once fully cooled by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen buns can last up to 2 months and thaw quickly at room temperature.

Reheating

For best results, reheat buns in a warm oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 5-10 minutes or microwave them wrapped in a slightly damp paper towel for about 20 seconds to restore moisture and softness.

FAQs

Can I substitute dried currants with other dried fruits?

Absolutely! Raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dried apricots all work wonderfully. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain the balance of flavors and moisture in your Traditional Hot Cross Buns Recipe.

Why is the glaze important for hot cross buns?

The glaze gives the buns their signature glossy appearance and adds a sweet-tangy layer that beautifully complements the spiced bread. It’s a small detail that elevates the overall look and taste.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to the first rise and refrigerate it overnight. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before continuing with shaping and the second rise for best results.

What makes hot cross buns different from regular buns?

Traditional Hot Cross Buns Recipe stands out because of its unique blend of warming spices, the inclusion of dried fruit, and the iconic cross mark on top. The sweet glaze also adds a defining finishing touch.

How do I make the cross on top of the buns?

Though optional, crosses are traditionally piped using a paste made from flour and water before baking. Alternatively, you can pipe thicker crosses with icing or glaze after baking for a sweeter finish.

Final Thoughts

This Traditional Hot Cross Buns Recipe is a genuinely heartwarming treat that fills your kitchen with the most inviting aromas and delights everyone lucky enough to share in a fresh batch. Whether it’s Easter morning or a cozy afternoon craving, these buns invite you to slow down, savor the simple pleasures, and enjoy a bite of tradition. I can’t wait for you to try them and make these wonderful buns your own special family favorite!

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