Hot cross buns are a popular Easter treat with their soft, spicy dough and cross topping. Love these lovely, fragrant buns that represent the Crucifixion. Fresh or butter-toasted hot cross buns warm Easter celebrations.
INGREDIENTS
– 4 cups all-purpose flour– 1/4 cup granulated sugar– 1 teaspoon salt– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg– 1/4 teaspoon ground clove– 1 1/2 cups warm milk– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted– 1 egg, beaten– 1/2 cup raisins or currant– 1/4 cup mixed peel (optional)For the Cross:– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour– 4-5 tablespoons water
INSTRUCTIONS
STEP-1
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, sugar, salt, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.In another bowl, combine heated milk, melted butter, and egg.
STEP-2
Whisk wet and dry components together.Mix peel and raisins or currants.Soften the dough by carefully adding the remaining flour.
STEP-3
On a floured surface, knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic Dough in a greased bowl, covered with a clean towel, rises in a warm place for an hour until doubled.
STEP-4
Punch down and divide the dough into 12 equal pieces after rising. Form each amount into a ball and place on a baking tray with space between buns.
STEP-5
Let the buns rise 30 more minutes under a clean cloth.Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
STEP-6
Make a thick cross paste by mixing flour and water in a small basin. Put paste in a piping bag or cut-corner plastic bag.
STEP-7
Pipe a cross on each bun.Heat the oven and bake the buns for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. The glaze is made by melting apricot jam or marmalade with water in a small pot while the buns bake.
STEP-8
Brush the heated glaze over the buns after baking.Cool buns before serving. Warm, butter-toasted hot cross buns are delicious!