Description
Indulge in the classic delight of Hot Cross Buns, a cherished Easter tradition that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Soft and spiced, these buns are filled with sweet sultanas and topped with iconic crosses, all glazed to perfection with a glossy maple finish. Whether served warm out of the oven or toasted with butter, they offer a delightful combination of flavors and aromas that elevate any occasion. Ideal for festive gatherings or cozy family weekends, these buns bring warmth and joy to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
- ½ cup warm water
- ½ cup warm milk
- ½ cup plus 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 4 teaspoons active dried yeast
- ⅓ cup (75g) butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups bread flour or plain flour
- 1 tablespoon mixed spice or pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sultanas or mixed dried fruit
- ¼ cup flour (for cross mixture)
- 2 tablespoons water (for cross mixture)
- 1 tablespoon water (for cross mixture)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the yeast mixture by combining warm milk, warm water, one tablespoon of brown sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit until bubbly.
- In another bowl, mix melted butter with remaining sugar, then add egg, salt, spices, vanilla extract, and sultanas until well combined.
- Combine the yeast mixture with the flavor base and remaining flour to form a slightly tacky dough. Knead until smooth.
- Shape the dough into buns and place them in a greased baking dish to rise until doubled in size.
- Prepare the cross mixture using flour and water; pipe it onto the risen buns before baking at 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes.
- Brush with maple glaze immediately after baking before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Easter
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: For delicious variations, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. Ensure proper yeast activation by checking for bubbles; this guarantees your buns rise beautifully.