Hot Cross Buns are a traditional Easter treat, featuring soft, spiced dough with sultanas, a signature cross on top, and a shiny glaze. These homemade buns are fresher and more flavorful than store-bought versions, with warm spices and citrus zest enhancing their aroma. This recipe includes methods for kneading by hand, using a stand mixer, or even a no-knead option for ease.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 teaspoons instant or rapid-rise yeast
- 1/2 cup (110g) caster sugar (or superfine sugar)
- 1 1/2 cups (375ml) warm milk (full-fat or low-fat)
- 4 1/4 cups (640g) bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon powder
- 2 teaspoons all-spice or mixed spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups (210g) sultanas
- Zest of 1–2 oranges
- 50g (3.5 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup (35g) extra bread flour (for adjusting dough consistency)
For the Crosses:
- 1/2 cup (75g) all-purpose flour
- 5 tablespoons water
For the Glaze:
- 1 tablespoon apricot jam
- 2 teaspoons water
Directions
Making the Dough:
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine flour, yeast, sugar, cinnamon, all-spice, and salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the warm milk, melted butter, egg, sultanas, and orange zest. Mix until the dough starts to form.
- Knead the dough:
- Stand mixer method: Use a dough hook attachment and mix on speed 2 for 5 minutes, adding extra flour if needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Hand-kneading method: Knead on a floured surface for 10 minutes until the dough becomes soft and elastic.
First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Shaping the Buns:
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each into a smooth ball and arrange them in a lined 9×13-inch baking pan.
Second Rise:
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let the buns rise again for 40 minutes until they are about 75% larger.
Making the Crosses & Baking:
- Prepare the cross mixture: Mix flour and water to create a thick, smooth paste. Pipe it over the buns in a cross pattern.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake for 22 minutes until golden brown.
Glazing & Serving:
- Prepare the glaze: Warm apricot jam with water and brush over the hot buns for a shiny finish.
- Let the buns cool slightly before serving.
Nutrients (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 222
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fiber: 2g
The History and Symbolism of Hot Cross Buns
Hot Cross Buns have a rich history that dates back centuries. These spiced buns are traditionally eaten on Good Friday and are believed to have Christian and pagan roots. The cross on top represents the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, making them a staple in Easter celebrations. Some historians suggest that similar spiced breads were made in ancient cultures and were eaten to mark the changing of seasons. In England, Queen Elizabeth I declared that Hot Cross Buns could only be made on Good Friday, Christmas, or burials, emphasizing their spiritual significance. Today, they are enjoyed worldwide, not just during Easter but throughout the year. Their comforting spices, chewy dried fruit, and soft, pillowy texture make them an irresistible treat anytime.
Why You Should Make Homemade Hot Cross Buns
While store-bought Hot Cross Buns are convenient, nothing beats the flavor and texture of freshly baked buns. Making them from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, enjoy a fresher, softer texture, experience the joy of baking, and customize the recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, ensuring perfectly spiced, golden-brown buns every time.
The Secret to Soft and Fluffy Hot Cross Buns
To achieve the perfect texture, it’s essential to follow key baking techniques. Use the Right Flour – Bread flour is recommended as it has a higher protein content, which helps create a light, chewy, and well-structured bun. Kneading the Dough Properly – Kneading develops gluten, which helps the dough rise well and hold its shape. You can knead by hand for 10 minutes or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes. Allowing Proper Rising Time – The first rise allows the yeast to activate and expand, giving the buns a light and airy texture. The second rise ensures the buns are puffy and well-shaped before baking. Keeping the Dough Moist – Using full-fat milk and butter keeps the dough rich and soft. Avoid adding too much flour, as this can make the buns dense and dry. By following these tips, you’ll end up with perfectly soft, golden, and aromatic Hot Cross Buns.
Customizing Your Hot Cross Buns
One of the best things about Hot Cross Buns is how versatile they are. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your preferences. Different Fruit and Mix-Ins – Instead of sultanas, try using raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates. For a more indulgent version, swap the dried fruit for chocolate chips. Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for extra crunch. Adjusting the Spices – Traditional Hot Cross Buns contain cinnamon and all-spice, but you can also add nutmeg for warmth, ground ginger for a hint of heat, or cardamom for a unique floral note. Making Them Extra Moist and Fluffy – Soak the dried fruit in warm orange juice or tea for 10 minutes before adding it to the dough. This enhances the flavor while keeping the fruit plump and juicy. Dairy-Free or Vegan Modifications – Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of dairy milk. Swap butter for coconut oil or dairy-free margarine. Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg or applesauce for a fully vegan version. With so many variations, you can tailor these buns to your taste and dietary needs.
How to Serve Hot Cross Buns
Hot Cross Buns are delicious on their own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate your enjoyment. Traditional Buttered Buns – Slice the buns in half and spread them with butter or clotted cream. Enjoy with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or spiced chai. Toasted with Jam or Honey – Toast the buns lightly and drizzle with honey or fruit preserves. Try pairing with apricot, raspberry, or orange marmalade for extra flavor. As a Breakfast Treat – Serve alongside Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a balanced morning meal. Enjoy with scrambled eggs and bacon for a savory-sweet contrast. As a Dessert – Use leftover buns to make bread pudding with cinnamon and vanilla custard. Turn them into French toast by dipping in an egg mixture and pan-frying. Whether you eat them fresh, toasted, or transformed into another dish, Hot Cross Buns are a truly delightful treat.
How to Store and Reheat Hot Cross Buns
If you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh and delicious. Storage Tips – Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Freezing Instructions – Freeze in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months. To thaw, leave at room temperature for a few hours or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes. Reheating – Toast the buns lightly for extra crispiness or microwave them for a few seconds to restore softness.
Conclusion
Hot Cross Buns are a timeless and beloved Easter tradition, offering a perfect blend of warm spices, dried fruit, and a soft, fluffy texture. Making them at home allows you to customize the flavors, control the ingredients, and enjoy the unbeatable freshness of homemade baking. Whether you prefer them buttered, toasted, or as part of a delicious dessert, these buns are a must-have for Easter celebrations and beyond. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow techniques, and endless customization options, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers. If you’ve never made Hot Cross Buns from scratch before, now is the perfect time to try – the result is a batch of fragrant, golden, and utterly delicious buns that will quickly become a family favorite!
