Hot Cross Buns

Hot Cross Buns are soft, spiced yeast rolls traditionally made with currants or raisins and marked with a symbolic cross on top. Often enjoyed during the Easter season, these buns are slightly sweet, aromatic with warm spices, and perfect served fresh or toasted with a pat of butter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic recipe brings comforting flavors and a rich tradition to your kitchen. You’ll love how the dough rises into pillowy soft buns, infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and dried fruit. The cross on top adds a decorative and symbolic touch, while a glossy glaze gives them that irresistible bakery-style finish. Whether you’re baking for a holiday brunch or just because, these buns are a timeless treat.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Active dry yeast
• Warm milk
• Granulated sugar
• Butter
• Eggs
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Salt
• Raisins or currants
• Orange zest (optional)
• All-purpose flour (for the cross paste)
• Water (for the cross paste)
• Apricot jam or simple syrup (for the glaze)

directions

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, a pinch of sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, eggs, and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
5. Add raisins or currants (and orange zest if using) into the dough, kneading gently to incorporate.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
7. Punch down the dough and divide into equal portions (about 12–15 buns). Shape into balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
9. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Mix flour and water into a thick paste and pipe a cross over the top of each bun.
11. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
12. While still warm, brush buns with apricot jam or simple syrup for a shiny finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 to 15 buns.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Rise time: 2 hours
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: About 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate chip version: Replace the dried fruit with chocolate chips for a kid-friendly twist.
• Citrus zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a brighter flavor profile.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeasted baking.
• Dairy-free: Substitute milk and butter with non-dairy alternatives.
• Spiced glaze: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cloves to the glaze for extra depth.

storage/reheating

Store leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast lightly. If frozen, thaw at room temperature first.

FAQs

Why are they called Hot Cross Buns?

The buns are named for the cross on top, which symbolizes the crucifixion, and they’re traditionally eaten hot or warm.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise and shape the buns the next day before baking.

What’s the purpose of the cross on top?

The cross is a symbolic element rooted in Christian tradition, marking Good Friday and the Easter season.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast works as well and doesn’t need to be activated in warm milk first—just mix it with the dry ingredients.

Can I use other dried fruits?

Absolutely. Try dried cranberries, chopped dates, or chopped apricots as alternatives.

Do I have to glaze the buns?

The glaze is optional but recommended. It adds a beautiful shine and a hint of sweetness.

Can I knead the dough in a stand mixer?

Yes, use a dough hook attachment and knead on medium speed for 5–7 minutes.

Why did my buns turn out dense?

This could be due to under-kneading, not enough rise time, or expired yeast. Make sure to knead thoroughly and allow the dough to proof properly.

How do I get evenly shaped buns?

Weigh each portion of dough with a kitchen scale and roll each ball gently for a uniform shape.

Can I make mini hot cross buns?

Yes, divide the dough into smaller portions and reduce baking time by a few minutes.

Conclusion

Hot Cross Buns are a cozy, flavorful, and meaningful addition to your baking repertoire. With their soft texture, warm spices, and sweet glaze, they’re ideal for Easter but just as good any time of year. Once you’ve made them fresh at home, they might just become a tradition of your own.

Print