Soft Hot Cross Buns

why make this recipe

Soft Hot Cross Buns are a delightful treat that bring joy to any gathering. With their sweet spice-flavored dough and the traditional cross on top, they have a special place in many people’s hearts, especially during Easter. These buns are soft, slightly sweet, and can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter. Making them at home fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma, and the satisfaction of creating them yourself makes them even more enjoyable.

how to make Soft Hot Cross Buns

Ingredients:

• 325 g (2 and 1/2 cup) All-purpose flour
• 150 ml (1/2 cup + 2 tbsp) Whole milk
• 50 g (1/4 cup) Granulated sugar
• 2 tsp Instant yeast
• 1/2 tsp Cinnamon Powder
• 1/2 tsp Ground All spices
• 3/4 tsp Salt
• 1 Egg

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, cinnamon powder, and ground all spices.
2. In another bowl, warm the whole milk and then add the instant yeast, stirring well to combine.
3. Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients, and add the egg.
4. Mix everything together until a soft dough forms, then knead the dough on a floured surface until it is smooth and elastic.
5. Add the raisins into the dough and knead gently until they are evenly distributed.
6. Place the dough in a warm area and let it rise until it has doubled in size.
7. Once risen, shape the dough into buns and arrange them on a baking tray.
8. Allow the buns to rise again, then bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown.
9. Once baked, let them cool slightly before enjoying.

how to serve Soft Hot Cross Buns

Soft Hot Cross Buns can be served warm or at room temperature. They are perfect for breakfast or as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also slice them open and spread a little butter for extra flavor. Some people enjoy them toasted for a delightful crunch!

how to store Soft Hot Cross Buns

To store your Soft Hot Cross Buns, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be kept fresh for about 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will last for about a month in the freezer.

tips to make Soft Hot Cross Buns

• Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
• Use whole milk for a richer flavor, but any milk will work.
• Knead the dough well to develop gluten and achieve a soft texture.
• For a shiny finish, you can brush the buns with a mixture of milk and sugar before baking.

variation

You can add different spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, to customize the flavor. Additionally, consider incorporating chocolate chips instead of raisins for a sweet twist or adding candied orange peel for a citrus kick.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
   Yes, instant yeast works well in this recipe. There’s no need to proof it in warm milk.

2. What can I substitute for raisins?
   You can use dried cranberries, currants, or even chocolate chips.

3. How can I make these buns gluten-free?
   You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping.

5. What is the best way to reheat leftover buns?
   The best way to reheat them is in the oven at low heat for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a short time, but they may become soft.

Soft Hot Cross Buns

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Delightful sweet spice-flavored buns, perfect for gatherings and especially popular during Easter.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 325 g (2 and 1/2 cup) All-purpose flour
• 150 ml (1/2 cup + 2 tbsp) Whole milk
• 50 g (1/4 cup) Granulated sugar
• 2 tsp Instant yeast
• 1/2 tsp Cinnamon Powder
• 1/2 tsp Ground All spices
• 3/4 tsp Salt
• 1 Egg

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, cinnamon powder, and ground all spices.
2. In another bowl, warm the whole milk and add the instant yeast, stirring well.
3. Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients and add the egg.
4. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
5. Add raisins into the dough and knead gently to distribute.
6. Place dough in a warm area to rise until doubled in size.
7. Shape the risen dough into buns and arrange them on a baking tray.
8. Allow the buns to rise again, then bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Let them cool slightly before enjoying.

Notes

For a shiny finish, brush the buns with a mixture of milk and sugar before baking.

• Author: maya-bake
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Baked Goods
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British
• Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bun
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg