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Hot Cross Buns

A delightful blend of sweet and spice, these hot cross buns are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, with a hint of citrus from candied orange peel.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 12 buns
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baked Goods
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup milk, warmed Allow to come to room temperature.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs Allow to come to room temperature.
  • 1 cup mixed dried fruit Like currants and raisins.
  • 1/4 cup candied orange peel Found in the baking aisle or homemade.
Egg Wash and Cross Ingredients
  • 1 egg 1 egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour for the cross
  • enough water to make a paste for the cross

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg together until well incorporated.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the warmed milk, melted butter, and eggs. Gradually add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  3. Gently fold in the dried fruits until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Then, place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal pieces. Shape each piece into a bun and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow them to rise again for about 30 minutes.
  3. To prepare the cross mixture, mix 3/4 cup of flour with enough water to make a thick paste. Gently pipe crosses onto the buns once they have risen.
  4. Brush the tops of the buns with the egg wash for a glossy finish.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the buns are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  6. Allow the buns to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

Serve your hot cross buns warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed plain or with toppings like butter or cream cheese. For storage, keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.