There’s a special kind of joy that fills the kitchen when the aroma of freshly baked Hot Cross Buns wafts through the air. I remember the first time I made these delightful treats; the sweet scent of cinnamon and the warm, sticky sultanas brought a sense of nostalgia, reminding me of family gatherings and festive brunches.
These buns are not only delicious, but they’re also incredibly easy to make, transforming a mundane weekend into a heartwarming celebration. With their soft texture and subtly spiced flavor, they’re the perfect indulgence for anyone tired of fast food or store-bought alternatives. Plus, they’re versatile enough to shine as both a breakfast treat and a delectable dessert.
So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delightful Hot Cross Buns recipe together—your home will be filled with love, and your taste buds will thank you!
Why love this Hot Cross Buns Recipe?
Uniquely comforting: With their sweet spices and citrus notes, these buns bring warmth to any gathering.
Simple process: Even beginner bakers will find this recipe easy to navigate.
Year-round enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast, tea time, or any special occasion.
Aromatic adventure: The delightful smell of baking bread fills your home, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone from family to friends will be enchanted by these tasty treats. For more baking inspiration, be sure to check out my easy bread recipes.
Hot Cross Buns Ingredients
• Get ready to bake these delightful treats!
For the Dough
- Instant or rapid rise yeast – 9 grams (3 teaspoons) for a quick rise while making these hot cross buns.
- Caster sugar – 110 grams (1/2 cup) adds a subtle sweetness to each delicious bite.
- Warm milk – 375 ml (1 1/2 cups) activates the yeast for fluffy, soft buns.
- Bread flour – 640 grams (4 1/4 cups) creates the perfect texture; all-purpose can work if needed.
- Cinnamon powder – 2 teaspoons for that cozy, warm flavor everyone loves.
- All Spice or Mixed Spice – 2 teaspoons to add depth and a hint of warmth.
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
- Sultanas – 210 grams (1 1/2 cups) for sweet bursts of flavor that pairs well with spices.
- Orange zest – From 1 to 2 oranges, brightens the flavor profile beautifully.
- Unsalted butter – 50 grams (3.5 tablespoons), melted and cooled, adds richness to the dough.
- Egg – 1, at room temperature, contributes to the bun’s tenderness and color.
- Extra bread flour – 35 grams (1/4 cup), for adjusting dough consistency if needed.
- White flour – 75 grams (1/2 cup), for creating the cross topping combined with water.
- Water – 5 tablespoons to achieve the right consistency for the cross paste.
For the Glaze
- Apricot jam – 1 tablespoon lends a lovely shine and sweetness to the finished buns.
- Water – 2 teaspoons mixed with the jam creates a smooth glaze.
How to Make Hot Cross Buns
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, sugar, all spice, cinnamon, and salt. Use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for about 1 minute to combine the dry ingredients.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the melted butter, warm milk, egg, sultanas, and orange zest to the dry mix. These ingredients will bring your dough to life with flavor!
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Knead the Dough: On speed 2 of your stand mixer, mix for 5 minutes until a smooth and elastic dough forms. If needed, add extra flour until the dough cleans the sides of the bowl.
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Knead by Hand: Alternatively, sprinkle flour on a work surface and knead by hand for about 10 minutes. Your dough should feel smooth and stretchy when ready.
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Let It Rise: Cover the bowl with cling wrap and place it in a warm area. Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 1/2 hours.
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Prepare the Baking Tray: While dough is rising, line a 9 x 13-inch tray with baking paper, creating some overhang for easy removal later.
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Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, deflate it gently and transfer it to a floured surface. Shape the dough into a log and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
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Form Dough Balls: Flatten each piece with your palm, shape them into smooth balls, and place them on the lined tray with the smooth side facing up.
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Second Rise: Lightly oil a piece of cling wrap and loosely cover the tray with the buns. Let them rise again in a warm place for 30 to 45 minutes, until they’re about 75% bigger.
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) while the buns finish their second rise to ensure it’s perfectly hot when it’s time to bake.
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Make the Cross Paste: In a bowl, combine the remaining flour and water until it’s a thick runny paste. Use a piping bag or small ziplock bag to pipe crosses onto your buns once they’re ready.
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Pipe the Crosses: Now, carefully pipe crosses in a decorative pattern on top of each bun for that iconic look!
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Bake the Buns: Pop the tray in your preheated oven and bake for about 22 minutes, or until the surface turns a lovely golden brown that beckons you closer.
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Prepare the Glaze: Meanwhile, mix the apricot jam and water in a bowl, then microwave it for 30 seconds to dissolve. Stir to create a smooth glaze.
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Glaze the Buns: Once baked, carefully lift the buns from the tray using the paper overhang. Brush them with your warm apricot glaze for that extra shine and sweetness! Allow to cool before serving.
Optional: Serve warm with a pat of butter for a delightful treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Hot Cross Buns
Room Temperature: Allow the buns to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, place the buns in the fridge, where they can last for up to 1 week. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent drying.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the hot cross buns in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. This will bring back their delightful softness!
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Cross Buns Recipe options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without compromising on flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix and knead as instructed, then cover and refrigerate the dough after the first rise. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature and rise again for 30-45 minutes before shaping and baking. Additionally, you can shape the buns and place them on the tray, then cover and refrigerate them overnight. Just let them rise for an hour before baking. This way, you can enjoy the delightful aroma of fresh-baked hot cross buns with minimal morning effort, keeping them just as delicious and fluffy!
Expert Tips for the Best Hot Cross Buns
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Check Yeast Freshness: Make sure your yeast is fresh for optimal rise and fluffiness. Old yeast can lead to dense buns that won’t rise properly.
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Warm Milk: Use warm milk (not hot) to activate the yeast without killing it. The ideal temperature is around 110°F (43°C).
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Knead the Dough: Knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes using a stand mixer. Under-kneading can result in tough buns.
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Proper Rising: Find a warm place for the dough to rise; avoid drafts and cold spots. If your kitchen is chilly, preheat the oven for a minute and then turn it off before placing the dough inside to rise.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the buns during baking. They should be golden brown but not burnt; overbaking can leave them dry.
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Glaze for Shine: Brush with the warm apricot jam glaze right after baking for a beautiful finish. It adds both gloss and a touch of sweetness to your hot cross buns recipe.
Hot Cross Buns Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe, turning these buns into a personalized delight!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk or oat milk for a delicious, non-dairy version that everyone can enjoy.
- Fruit Twist: Replace sultanas with dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots for a tangy flavor explosion that adds a pop of color.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger powder to amp up the spice level for those who crave a little more warmth.
- Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and an appealing texture that complements the soft dough beautifully.
- Zesty Variations: Try adding lemon zest instead of orange for a bright, fresh flavor that brings a whole new perspective to these buns.
- Glazed Options: Instead of apricot jam, use raspberry or peach preserves for a different yet equally luscious glaze that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in chocolate chips or cocoa nibs for a decadent treat that transforms these buns into a sweet indulgence.
- Heat Factor: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or chili powder into the dough for a warm, unexpected kick that pairs well with the sweet spices.
What to Serve with Hot Cross Buns?
Imagine the warmth of freshly baked buns filling your home, inviting friends and family to join you for a cozy meal.
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Clotted Cream: This rich, velvety spread adds indulgence and pairs beautifully with the spiced sweetness of the buns.
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Fruit Compote: A vibrant, tart compote enhances the flavor of the buns with its fruity notes, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
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Warm Milk or Tea: A comforting cup of tea or warm milk makes for a cozy accompaniment, enhancing the overall experience of enjoying the buns.
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Buttery Scrambled Eggs: The creamy texture of scrambled eggs provides a savory contrast to the sweetness, making this combo a delightful breakfast option.
In fact, the buttery richness complements the spices in the buns wonderfully! -
Vanilla Ice Cream: For dessert lovers, a scoop of vanilla ice cream atop a warm bun creates an unforgettable indulgence, enticing you to take another bite.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of fresh berries adds a burst of color and flavor, complementing the sweet spices in each bite.
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Savory Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses provides a salty contrast to the sweet buns—think sharp cheddar or creamy brie to elevate your spread.
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Glazed Ham: For a more substantial pairing, the sweet, smoky flavors of glazed ham are a wonderful match for the spiced sweetness of the buns, making them perfect for brunch.
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Coffee: A robust cup of coffee brings warmth and depth, helping to round out the flavors of this delightful treat.
Explore these pairings to create a memorable meal that showcases the charm of your hot cross buns recipe!
Hot Cross Buns Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, make sure to select fresh and ripe oranges for zesting, and choose plump sultanas without any dark spots or signs of drying. This will enhance the flavor of your hot cross buns and ensure that all the components work harmoniously together!
What is the best way to store baked hot cross buns?
To keep them soft and fresh, allow the buns to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, place them in the fridge, well-wrapped, where they’ll stay fresh for about a week.
Can I freeze hot cross buns?
Yes, you can freeze these delectable buns! To do so, place the completely cooled buns in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they are well-sealed to avoid freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or enjoy them straight from the freezer after a quick warm-up in the oven.
Why are my hot cross buns dense?
Very! If your buns turn out dense, it might be due to a few reasons: either the yeast was old and inactive, the dough wasn’t kneaded enough, or it didn’t have a warm enough environment to rise properly. Make sure to check the freshness of your yeast and create a warm, draft-free spot for dough to rise.
Are there allergy considerations for this recipe?
Of course! This hot cross buns recipe contains wheat (flour) and dairy (milk and butter), which can be problematic for those with allergies. You can substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative and use gluten-free flour mix specifically designed for baking. Always check for cross-contamination if you have severe allergies.
What is the best way to know when my buns are perfectly baked?
For the perfect golden brown buns, keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time. They should reach a deep golden color in about 22 minutes. If you gently tap the top, it should sound slightly hollow. If they’re golden but you want a softer texture, reduce the baking time slightly.
Irresistible Hot Cross Buns Recipe You'll Want All Year Round
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, sugar, all spice, cinnamon, and salt. Use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for about 1 minute to combine the dry ingredients.
- Pour in the melted butter, warm milk, egg, sultanas, and orange zest to the dry mix.
- On speed 2 of your stand mixer, mix for 5 minutes until a smooth and elastic dough forms. If needed, add extra flour until the dough cleans the sides of the bowl.
- Sprinkle flour on a work surface and knead by hand for about 10 minutes if not using a stand mixer.
- Cover the bowl with cling wrap and place it in a warm area. Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 1/2 hours.
- While dough is rising, line a 9 x 13-inch tray with baking paper.
- Once the dough has risen, deflate it gently and transfer to a floured surface, shape into a log and divide into 12 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece with your palm, shape them into smooth balls, and place them on the lined tray.
- Lightly oil a piece of cling wrap and loosely cover the tray with the buns. Let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) while the buns finish their second rise.
- In a bowl, combine the remaining flour and water until it's a thick runny paste.
- Carefully pipe crosses in a decorative pattern on top of each bun.
- Pop the tray in your preheated oven and bake for about 22 minutes.
- Meanwhile, mix the apricot jam and water in a bowl, then microwave it for 30 seconds to dissolve.
- Once baked, carefully lift the buns from the tray and brush them with the warm apricot glaze.