Traditional Hot Cross Buns

Name: Traditional Hot Cross Buns
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Traditional
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 1 ½ cups warm whole milk (110°F); ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 cup currants or raisins; 1 cup icing sugar (for cross)

By Alicia Newsom

April 2, 2025

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There’s something magical about the sweet, spiced aroma of Traditional Hot Cross Buns wafting through the kitchen. Picture this: golden-brown buns, soft and fluffy, dotted with currants and topped with a glossy icing cross. The first bite? Pure bliss as they melt in your mouth, bursting with flavors that dance like happy little sugarplums.

These delightful treats are not just for Easter they’re perfect for any occasion when you’re craving a taste of nostalgia and comfort. I still remember the first time I baked these beauties with my grandmother, who insisted that a pinch of love is the secret ingredient. Spoiler alert: she was right.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Making Traditional Hot Cross Buns is surprisingly easy and requires minimal ingredients
The comforting spices create an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen
Their warm, golden appearance makes them irresistible to guests at any gathering
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful afternoon snack with tea or coffee

I once baked a batch for a family gathering, and let’s just say it turned into a competitive eating contest my cousin claimed he could eat six in one sitting

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour to achieve that perfect lightness in texture.
Granulated Sugar: Sweeten your dough and enhance the flavor don’t skimp
Yeast: Active dry yeast works wonders here it’s essential for that fluffy rise.
Milk: Warm whole milk creates a rich flavor while ensuring your buns remain moist.
Butter: Melted unsalted butter adds richness it’s hard to beat butter in baking
Currants or Raisins: These tiny morsels bring sweetness and chewiness feel free to mix them up
Spices (Cinnamon and Nutmeg): A dash of warm spices gives these buns their signature flavor profile.
Icing Sugar: For the cross on top it’s the cherry on this delicious cake or bun

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Dough: Begin by warming your milk until it’s just lukewarm this activates our yeast without cooking it. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg for that aromatic warmth.

Add Yeast Mixture: Sprinkle the yeast over the warm milk and let it sit for about five minutes until frothy it’s like magic watching those bubbles form Mix this into your dry ingredients along with melted butter.

Knead Like You Mean It: Turn your dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Trust me this step is crucial Your arms will get a workout but think of it as baking cardio.

First Rise Time : Place your dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size this usually takes about an hour. Be patient good things come to those who wait

Add Currants and Shape Buns: Once risen, gently punch down the dough (take out any frustrations) before folding in currants or raisins. Divide the dough into equal pieces and shape them into balls.

Baking Time : Arrange your shaped buns on a lined baking tray close together (they’ll snuggle up). Cover them again and let rise for another 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake them for 20-25 minutes until golden brown your house will smell incredible

After they cool slightly, mix icing sugar with water to drizzle crosses on top this is where you can unleash your inner artist

Enjoy these Traditional Hot Cross Buns fresh from the oven or toasted with butter the choice is yours Either way, they’ll fill your home and heart with warmth.

You Must Know

Traditional Hot Cross Buns are not just delicious they evoke nostalgia with every bite
The sweet aroma fills your kitchen, making it feel like a warm hug on a chilly morning
Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best experience

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the dough and letting it rise while you preheat your oven. This creates a fluffy texture in your buns.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the traditional spices for your favorites or add chocolate chips for a delightful twist on the classic recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store your buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven to bring back that fresh-baked goodness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly fluffy buns, ensure your yeast is fresh and bubbly before mixing
Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic for the best results
Don’t rush the rising time patience is key to achieving that lovely texture

I remember the first time I made Traditional Hot Cross Buns my family couldn’t stop raving about them They even argued over who got the last bun, which felt pretty rewarding.

FAQs

FAQ

What makes Traditional Hot Cross Buns special?

Traditional Hot Cross Buns are symbolic of Easter, featuring spices and currants that represent rich history.

Can I freeze Traditional Hot Cross Buns?

Yes, they freeze well Wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

How do I know if my buns are done baking?

The buns should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

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