How To Make Hot Cross Buns: Step-by-Step Instructions

How to Make Hot Cross Buns: Step-by-Step Instructions

Welcome to our step-by-step guide on how to make delicious hot cross buns right in your own kitchen! A popular Easter treat, hot cross buns are not only delightful to taste but also a festive addition to your holiday spread. Follow our simple instructions below and impress your family and friends with your homemade hot cross buns.

Ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried yeast
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½:
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 4-5 tablespoons water
• For the glaze:
• 2 tablespoons apricot jam

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.

Add in the raisins or currants and orange zest, and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Buns

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape them into round buns.

Place the buns on a lightly greased baking tray, leaving space between each bun for them to expand. Cover them again with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cross

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a small bowl, mix the flour and water together to form a thick paste. Spoon the paste into a piping bag or a plastic sandwich bag with a small corner cut off.

Pipe a cross shape over the top of each bun, ensuring that the paste is thick enough to hold its shape during baking.

Step 5: Bake and Glaze

Place the buns in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.

While the buns are still warm, heat the apricot jam in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds to soften it. Brush the warm jam over the tops of the buns to give them a glossy finish.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Allow the hot cross buns to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed fresh, and you can even toast them and spread them with butter for an extra treat. Share these delicious homemade hot cross buns with your loved ones and celebrate Easter in style!

We hope you found this step-by-step guide helpful in making your very own batch of hot cross buns. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t flawless. Have fun in the kitchen and enjoy the sweet rewards of your efforts. Happy baking!