Hot Cross Buns: Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Hot Cross Buns are an Easter classic, and for good reason. They’re soft, slightly sweet, and bursting with the warm flavors of cinnamon and allspice. The mixed fruit adds little pops of sweetness, and that signature cross on top is the perfect finishing touch. And let’s not forget the glaze that gives these buns a beautiful, shiny finish. Trust me, one bite of these, and you’ll be hooked!
What makes this recipe extra special is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a master baker to get it right. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a batch of buns that will rival those from your favorite bakery. Plus, baking these at home means you can enjoy them fresh out of the oven—something store-bought buns just can’t compete with.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Hot Cross Buns Every Time
Baking can sometimes feel a bit intimidating, but don’t worry—I’ve got some tips to help you make the best Hot Cross Buns ever!
- Activate Your Yeast Properly: The key to fluffy buns is getting that yeast to do its job. Make sure your milk is warm—not hot—when you mix it with the yeast. Too hot, and you’ll kill the yeast; too cold, and it won’t activate properly. The milk should be just warm to the touch, about 37°C (98°F).
- Knead for a Smooth Dough: Kneading is essential to develop the gluten in the dough, which gives your buns that lovely, chewy texture. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. You can do this by hand or use a stand mixer with a dough hook if you want to save some effort.
- Let It Rise: Be patient with the rising process. The dough should double in size, which usually takes about an hour in a warm spot. This step is crucial for soft, pillowy buns. If your kitchen is on the cooler side, you can let the dough rise in a slightly warm oven (just turn it on for a few minutes, then off again before putting the dough in).
- Perfecting the Cross: The cross is what makes these buns iconic. Use a piping bag or even a zip-lock bag with the corner snipped off to pipe the cross on top. If you want a neater finish, you can also score the cross lightly on the dough with a sharp knife before baking.
- The Glaze: Don’t skip the glaze! It gives the buns a lovely sheen and an extra touch of sweetness. Brush it on while the buns are still hot to help it soak in.
How to Serve and Enjoy Your Hot Cross Buns
These Hot Cross Buns are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when they’re warm and fluffy. You can serve them as they are, or for an extra indulgent treat, split them open and spread a bit of butter or your favorite jam. They’re also delicious with a drizzle of honey or even some cream cheese.
For an Easter brunch, serve your Hot Cross Buns alongside some fresh fruit, eggs, and maybe a glass of sparkling wine. They’re also perfect with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them a delightful morning or afternoon treat.
A Few More Easter Treats to Try
If you loved making these Hot Cross Buns, here are a few more recipes that you might enjoy:
So, what are you waiting for? Get your apron on, preheat that oven, and let’s bake some Hot Cross Buns! And when you do, don’t forget to snap a picture and share it with me on Instagram @steph_cooks_stuff. I can’t wait to see how they turn out! 📸
Happy baking! 🐣💕
Hot Cross Buns
I'm super excited to share my Grandma's legendary Hot Cross Buns recipe with you! It's a family favorite, and I promise it's easier than you think!
Prep Time 30 minutes 
Setting Time
20 minutes 
Total Time 50 minutes 
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, yeast, mixed fruit, and mixed spice.
- In a separate bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Divide the dough into 16 equal pieces and shape them into buns. Place them on a greased baking sheet and set them in a warm place to double in size again.
- In a small bowl, mix together the flour and water for the cross. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag and pipe a cross on each bun.
- Bake the buns for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the buns are baking, make the glaze. In a small saucepan, heat the water and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and reduces by half.
- Brush the glaze over the hot buns as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Eat them hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
Video
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these buns ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then shape the buns and place them on a baking sheet. Cover and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, take them out, let them come to room temperature, and rise a bit more before baking.
Can I freeze Hot Cross Buns?
Yes, these buns freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature and warm them up in the oven.
What if I don’t have mixed fruit?
No problem! You can use raisins, currants, or even dried cranberries as a substitute. If you like, you can add some candied orange peel or a bit of grated lemon zest for an extra citrusy flavor.
