Name: Classic Hot Cross Buns
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon mixed spice; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 7g (or 2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast; 1 cup milk, lukewarm; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, candied peel); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup water; 1/4 cup apricot jam; 1 tablespoon water

Classic Hot Cross Buns

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Baking

Classic Hot Cross Buns

Home

Baking

Classic Hot Cross Buns

April 17, 2025

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Classic Hot Cross Buns: A Timeless Easter Treat

1. Introduction

Easter wouldn’t be complete without the comforting aroma of warm, spiced buns filling the kitchen. This classic hot cross buns recipe brings a beloved tradition right into your home, resulting in a delightful treat that’s perfect for sharing joy with family and friends. These aren’t just any ordinary buns; they are incredibly soft, bursting with flavor, and adorned with the signature cross, symbolizing the Easter spirit. Whether you call them traditional hot cross buns or simply crave a taste of homemade goodness, this recipe is crafted to guide you through each simple step to create the perfect batch. You might also be interested in exploring other breakfast options like a Cheesy Potato Egg Scramble for a savory start to your day!

Freshly baked classic hot cross buns on a wooden board.

Creating your own homemade hot cross buns might initially seem like a daunting baking feat. But, we’ve broken down this detailed hot cross bun baking recipe so you’ll find out that it’s actually a wonderfully rewarding experience. You’ll go from mixing the fragrant dough to adding that final brush of sweet glaze. Every single step is designed to ensure your buns are nothing short of a culinary triumph. Consider them alongside other delightful baked goods, such as Cream Cheese Sugar Cookies, for a memorable dessert spread. So, get those ingredients together, and let’s begin this exciting baking adventure together to make the most delicious, perfectly spiced buns you’ve ever had!

2. Ingredients Needed

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon mixed spice
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
7g (or 2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 cup milk, lukewarm
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, candied peel)

For the Crosses:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup water

For the Glaze:

1/4 cup apricot jam
1 tablespoon water

3. Equipment Required

Large mixing bowl or stand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Small saucepan
Whisk
Piping bag or Ziploc bag

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, carefully combine the flour, sugar, salt, mixed spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. If you’re using active dry yeast, make absolutely certain it’s fresh. That’s key for achieving the best possible rise in your classic hot cross buns. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lukewarm milk, melted butter, and egg until they’re thoroughly combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until a shaggy dough begins to form. Now, carefully incorporate the mixed dried fruit, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the dough. Did you know that this is an absolutely crucial step in creating truly flavorful traditional hot cross buns?. Make sure you have a look at more recipes in Baking category.

Ingredients for classic hot cross buns dough in a mixing bowl.

2. Kneading and Proofing

Turn your lovely dough out onto a lightly floured surface, and then knead with care for about 8-10 minutes. You will know it’s ready when the dough becomes nice and smooth and wonderfully elastic to the touch. Alternatively, if you have a stand mixer, you can use it with a dough hook for approximately 6-8 minutes to achieve the same result. Next, gently place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it over to ensure it’s lightly coated with the grease. Cover the bowl snugly, and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has impressively doubled in size. If you want more breakfast treats, see this amazing recipe Breakfast Category This process is so vital for achieving that perfect, airy texture in your homemade hot cross buns. Allowing the dough to proof properly ensures a light and airy final product, making this hot cross bun baking recipe a resounding success. For a different treat, learn how to make frosted red velvet cookies.

3. Shaping and Scoring

Once the dough has gloriously doubled in size, gently punch it down with care to release any trapped air. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions, ensuring each piece is as similar in size as possible. Roll each of these portions into a smooth, round ball, and then place them neatly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Cover the shaped buns gently, and allow them to rise for another 30-40 minutes which will allow them achieve a light texture. While the buns are proofing for the second time, take the opportunity to prepare the cross paste. Mix the flour and water together until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any lumps and transfer the paste to a piping bag or a Ziploc bag with a tiny corner snipped off. Once the buns have proofed, pipe crosses carefully and evenly over the top of each bun. Scoring crosses on top is a characteristic mark of classic hot cross buns. You can also find more helpful information about us.

Proofed hot cross buns on a baking sheet ready for scoring.

4. Baking and Glazing

Preheat your oven to a precise 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking. Bake those beautiful classic hot cross buns for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they turn a lovely, rich golden brown. While those irresistible buns are baking away in the oven, it’s time to craft the glaze. In a small saucepan, gently and carefully heat the apricot jam and water together until the jam has melted smoothly and the mixture is well combined. This glaze not only adds a beautiful sheen but also enhances the buns’ flavor, truly setting them apart as exceptional traditional hot cross buns. For another Easter dessert idea ,try this dirt cake casserole. As suggested by RecipeTin Eats, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! How about a healthier option after this full flavored treat? Check this lemon poppy seed recipe

White paste in a bowl next to hot cross buns ready to be decorated.

5. Tips for Perfect Hot Cross Buns

For the very best rise, it’s essential to use fresh yeast.
Ensure that the milk you use is lukewarm, not too hot, to properly activate the yeast.
Be careful not to over-knead the dough because this can unfortunately result in tough buns.
Allow sufficient time for the dough to proof in a warm place.
Brush the buns with glaze as soon as immediately after baking for a glossy finish.

6. Variations and Additions

For a chocolatey twist, try adding chocolate chips.
Incorporate citrus zest (orange or lemon) for an extra layer of delightful flavor.
Feel free to experiment with a variety of dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots.
Consider using a different glaze, such as a simple yet delicious sugar glaze with a touch of lemon juice.

7. Serving Suggestions

Serve your classic hot cross buns while they’re still delightfully warm, either all on their own or with a generous pat of butter. They are perfect as a part of breakfast, brunch, or served as an Easter treat. These homemade hot cross buns also pair exceptionally well with a steaming cup of tea or coffee, making them a versatile addition to meal.

8. Storage Instructions

Store your beautifully baked buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, this will preserve their deliciousness. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month, ensuring you can enjoy them whenever the craving strikes. Before serving, simply reheat the buns in a warm oven or microwave. Reheating helps to restore their soft texture and delightful flavor, bringing them back to that fresh-baked taste. To maintain the traditional hot cross buns at their absolute best, consider wrapping each one individually before you freeze them. This extra step can preserve their texture and flavor.

9. Conclusion

By mastering this classic hot cross buns recipe, you are unlocking the ability to create a truly special Easter treat right in the comfort of your own kitchen. From that exquisitely spiced dough to the iconic cross and lusciously sweet glaze, every element is so important and contributes to a overall perfect bake. Have fun during the entire process of making these delightful homemade hot cross buns and then sharing them with your friends and family. With patience, care and this hot cross bun baking recipe, you’re sure to impress everyone with your exceptional baking skills. And not only this, you’ll also create lasting Easter memories that will be cherished for years to come. What about a Carrot Cake for Easter dinner?

Classic Hot Cross Buns

Author: Isabella
Total Time: 2 hours
Yield: 12 buns 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Bake classic hot cross buns at home with this easy recipe! These spiced, sweet buns are perfect for Easter, featuring a signature cross and a delicious apricot glaze. Enjoy homemade goodness with our detailed baking guide.

Instructions

Preparing the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, mixed spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lukewarm milk, melted butter, and egg. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Incorporate the mixed dried fruit, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Kneading and Proofing: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shaping and Scoring: Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another 30-40 minutes. While the buns are proofing, prepare the cross paste by mixing the flour and water until smooth. Transfer the paste to a piping bag or Ziploc bag. Once the buns have proofed, pipe crosses over each bun.
Baking and Glazing: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze by heating the apricot jam and water in a small saucepan until melted and smooth. Once the buns are out of the oven, brush them generously with the apricot glaze while they’re still warm.