If you have ever wished for a treat that perfectly balances warm spices, tender dough, and a touch of sweetness, this Hot Cross Buns Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with aromatic cinnamon and nutmeg, studded with juicy currants or raisins, and topped with a delicate cross of icing, these buns bring a cozy, comforting vibe to every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a nostalgic snack, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a truly memorable homemade delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of kitchen staples, this Hot Cross Buns Recipe turns those everyday ingredients into a fluffy, fragrant masterpiece. Each component plays a key role—flour provides structure, spices deepen flavor, and the fruit adds bursts of sweetness that make these buns irresistible.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together with the perfect balance of chewiness and softness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Adds just enough sweetness without overpowering the spices.
- 1 packet active dry yeast: Your secret weapon for fluffy, risen buns.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the dough with warm, inviting spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complementary spice that gives a subtle depth.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and tenderness to the buns.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness for a soft crumb.
- 1/4 cup warm water: Helps activate the yeast for a good rise.
- 2 large eggs: Adds structure and binding.
- 1 cup currants or raisins: Sweet pockets of fruit that add texture and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the aroma and overall taste profile.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Gives a fresh, citrus brightness that cuts through the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: For the perfect sweet icing on top.
- 1 tablespoon milk (for icing): Creates a smooth, drizzlable icing consistency.
How to Make Hot Cross Buns Recipe
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Start by mixing the flour, salt, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl. This blend is what gives your buns that warm, fragrant flavor that’s classic to a Hot Cross Buns Recipe.
Step 2: Warm the Milk
Warm the milk until it’s just lukewarm, not hot – this helps activate the yeast without killing it. Warm liquids lead to a better rise and lighter texture in your buns.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients Into Dry
Pour the warm milk into your dry mix, add the warm water, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Stir these together until the dough starts to come together.
Step 4: Incorporate Butter
Add softened butter in small pieces into the dough, mixing continuously until fully combined. This ensures the dough becomes sticky and rich, key for that tender crumb.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Kneading develops gluten, which gives your buns that perfect chewy texture.
Step 6: Fold in the Fruit
During the last few minutes of kneading, fold currants or raisins evenly into the dough. These sweet bursts make each bite exciting and flavorful.
Step 7: First Rise
Put your dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for an hour to an hour and a half, until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for that light, airy bun.
Step 8: Shape the Buns
Punch the risen dough down gently, divide it into 12 equal pieces, and shape into tight rounds. Getting the shape right helps with an even bake and attractive final look.
Step 9: Second Rise
Place the buns close but not touching on a lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise again for 30 to 45 minutes—watch them puff up beautifully.
Step 10: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 18 to 22 minutes until golden brown and fragrant—this is the moment the kitchen fills with the iconic scent of fresh Hot Cross Buns.
Step 11: Icing the Buns
Let the buns cool slightly before mixing powdered sugar and milk to make the icing. Drizzle the icing in a cross pattern on each bun for that traditional look and a touch of sweetness.
How to Serve Hot Cross Buns Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a bit of butter right after baking lets it melt into those soft, warm buns making them even more irresistible. You can also sprinkle a little extra lemon zest on top of the icing for a fresh zing.
Side Dishes
These buns pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack. They also make a lovely accompaniment to curried dishes, where the sweet spice complements savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your buns split and filled with clotted cream and homemade jam for a fruity twist. Alternatively, toast them lightly to add a bit of crunch while preserving the soft center; it gives an extra texture contrast that’s delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any buns left, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for a quick snack or breakfast treat.
Freezing
Hot Cross Buns freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
Reheating
For the freshest taste, gently reheat your buns in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Add a little butter after heating for that just-baked feel.
FAQs
Can I use dried cranberries instead of currants or raisins?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries add a tart contrast that complements the spices nicely and work just as well in this Hot Cross Buns Recipe.
Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?
Yes, the two rises help develop a light texture and fluffy buns by allowing the yeast to work its magic at different stages of the process.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To adapt this Hot Cross Buns Recipe to vegan versions, substitute butter with plant-based margarine, milk with non-dairy milk, and eggs with flaxseed or chia egg alternatives.
What’s the best flour to use for these buns?
All-purpose flour works perfectly here for soft, tender buns. You can experiment with bread flour for a chewier texture, but all-purpose is familiar and dependable.
How thick should the icing cross be?
The icing cross should be bold enough to be distinct but not so thick that it overwhelms the bun. A medium consistency icing that can be piped or drizzled smoothly is ideal.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Cross Buns Recipe has all the charm of a classic bakery favorite right at your fingertips, made from scratch with love and simple ingredients. Give it a try to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with satisfaction from homemade goodness. Once you taste these buns fresh from the oven, you’ll be hooked!
