Description
Easy Hot Cross Buns: Soft, spiced, and irresistibly delicious! These traditional Easter buns are packed with warm spices, plump raisins, and a tender crumb. Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this foolproof recipe ensures perfect results every time.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup raisins or currants
- 1 tbsp orange zest (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Whisk until well blended.
- Add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes (stand mixer) or 10 minutes (by hand) until smooth. Fold in raisins and orange zest.
- Divide dough into 12 equal portions and shape into balls. Place on a lined baking tray, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix 1/2 cup flour with 5 tbsp water to make cross paste. Pipe crosses onto buns. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Brush with simple syrup (1 tbsp sugar + 1 tbsp hot water) for shine.
Notes
- Use warm (not hot) milk to activate yeast properly.
- Soak raisins in warm water or rum for extra flavor.
- Let buns cool slightly before serving for best texture.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 220 Kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Easy Hot Cross Buns, Easter buns, spiced buns, homemade hot cross buns, raisin buns, traditional Easter recipe