Name: Hot Cross Buns Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 3 teaspoons instant or rapid rise yeast (9 grams); 1/2 cup (110g) caster sugar (superfine sugar); 1 1/2 cups (375ml) milk, warm (full fat or low fat); 4 1/4 cups (640g) bread flour (or plain/all purpose); 2 tsp cinnamon powder; 2 tsp All Spice OR Mixed Spice; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 1/2 cups (210g) sultanas; Zest of 1–2 oranges; 50g (3.5 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted and cooled; 1 egg, at room temperature; 1/4 cup (35g) extra bread flour (for dough adjustment); 1/2 cup (75g) flour (any white flour); 5 tbsp water; 1 tbsp apricot jam; 2 tsp water

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If you have a soft spot for bakery treats that are bursting with warm spices and a hint of citrus, then this Hot Cross Buns Recipe is going to be your new best friend. These fluffy, lightly sweet buns dotted with juicy sultanas and kissed with orange zest bring the comforting aroma of home baking right into your kitchen. Perfectly spiced and topped with the iconic crosses, they’re a delightful way to celebrate traditions or simply enjoy a seriously scrumptious snack any day of the year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a batch of nine golden brown hot cross buns arranged in three rows and three columns on a black cooling rack. Each bun is topped with a white cross made from thick icing or dough, creating a clear contrast against the shiny, smooth surface of the buns. The buns have a soft, slightly glossy texture with some dark spots that suggest small pieces of dried fruit inside. They sit on a piece of parchment paper that is slightly wrinkled and placed on the cooling rack over a white marbled surface. The photo has a cozy and warm feel, focusing closely on the buns to show their round, plump shape and inviting texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Hot Cross Buns Recipe plays a vital role in creating that perfect texture, flavor, and color that makes these buns unforgettable. From the creamy warmth of milk to the spicy notes of cinnamon and all spice, each component works together beautifully.

3 teaspoons instant or rapid rise yeast (9 grams): Essential for a light, airy dough that rises just right; always check it’s active for best results.
1/2 cup (110g) caster sugar: Adds just the right sweetness without overpowering.
1 1/2 cups (375ml) warm milk: Provides moisture and richness to the dough; make sure it’s pleasantly warm, not hot.
4 1/4 cups (640g) bread flour: Gives the buns their soft yet sturdy structure; bread flour helps keep them tender and fluffy.
2 tsp cinnamon powder: Infuses the dough with warm, cozy spice.
2 tsp All Spice or Mixed Spice: Adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
1 1/2 cups (210g) sultanas: Juicy bursts of sweetness scattered throughout.
Zest of 1 – 2 oranges: Brightens the taste with fresh citrus notes.
50g (3.5 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Adds tenderness and richness to the crumb.
1 egg, at room temperature: Helps bind ingredients and creates a lovely golden color.
1/4 cup (35g) extra bread flour: Used as needed to achieve the right dough consistency.
For the crosses – 1/2 cup (75g) flour and 5 tbsp water: Simple paste to pipe the iconic cross pattern.
For the glaze – 1 tbsp apricot jam and 2 tsp water: Gives a shiny, irresistible finish to the baked buns.

How to Make Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Begin by combining the dry ingredients: flour, yeast, sugar, all spice, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl. This mix forms the flavorful, sturdy base of your dough. Next, add the wet ingredients—melted butter, warm milk, egg, sultanas, and orange zest. Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix on speed 2 to combine, then speed up to 4 and knead for about 5 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If hand-kneading, dust your work surface with flour and knead for roughly 10 minutes until the dough is no longer sticky and has a lovely stretch without tearing.

Step 2: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough back into the bowl, cover it tightly with cling wrap, and find a warm, draft-free spot to let it rise. This first rise should double the dough’s size, taking between 30 minutes to 1 1/2 hours depending on your kitchen’s temperature. Patience here rewards you with airy buns.

Step 3: Shaping the Buns

Once risen, punch down the dough to release air pockets and transfer it to a floured surface. Shape it into a log and cut into 12 even pieces. Each piece should be gently formed into a smooth ball by pressing and rolling, ensuring a taut surface that bakes into a perfect golden dome. Arrange the buns in a lined baking tray in a neat 3 by 4 grid.

Step 4: Second Rise

Loosely cover the buns with lightly oiled cling wrap and let them rise again in a warm place until they roughly increase in size by 75%, about 30 to 45 minutes. While they rise, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This second rise lays the foundation for a soft and fluffy crumb.

Step 5: Piping the Crosses

Mix the flour and water for the crosses into a thick but runny paste. Transfer this mixture into a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a tiny corner cut off. Carefully pipe straight crosses over each bun, hugging their rounded tops. This iconic detail sets the buns apart and adds a lovely visual touch.

Step 6: Baking and Glazing

Bake the buns in the preheated oven for about 22 minutes until they reach a deep golden brown, which is the best sign of perfectly baked buns. While baking, warm the apricot jam with water until it’s smooth—this will be brushed on to glaze the buns immediately after they come out of the oven, giving them a shiny, appetizing finish. Let the buns cool slightly before digging in for the best flavor.

How to Serve Hot Cross Buns Recipe

A close-up of nine shiny, golden-brown hot cross buns arranged close together on a black wire rack, each bun showing a white cross on top. The buns have a smooth, slightly glossy surface with visible raisins inside. One bun is separated and turned sideways to show a soft, light brown inside with melted butter spread on it. Below this bun is a silver butter knife with some butter on the tip. On the white marbled surface beside the rack, a small silver spoon with brown cinnamon powder and a few raisins are scattered. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While these buns are fantastic on their own, a little extra flair never hurts. Try spreading a thin layer of butter or cream cheese while they’re still warm—melting into every nook. For a festive touch, sprinkle a tiny dusting of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of honey to sweeten the experience.

Side Dishes

These buns pair beautifully with a steaming cup of tea or coffee, making an ideal afternoon treat. If you’re aiming for a more indulgent snack, serve alongside some clotted cream or your favorite jam for dipping. They also complement a fresh fruit salad to balance the comforting spices with bright acidity.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Hot Cross Buns into a delightful dessert by slicing and toasting them lightly, then topping with mascarpone and a handful of fresh berries. Another idea is to hollow them out slightly and fill with cinnamon butter or chocolate spread, baking just until warmed through for a gooey surprise inside. These little creative twists make any occasion feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Homemade buns are freshest on the day they’re baked, but if you have leftovers, store them airtight at room temperature to keep them soft. Avoid refrigeration as it tends to dry out the buns more quickly.

Freezing

Hot Cross Buns freeze exceptionally well. Wrap individual buns tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to three months, perfect for enjoying later or prepping ahead for special occasions.

Reheating

To bring your buns back to their soft, warm glory, simply microwave for 15 seconds or warm in a low oven covered with foil to prevent drying. This quick reheating restores their fresh-baked charm and makes the spices and citrus notes bloom again.

FAQs

Can I substitute bread flour with all-purpose flour in this Hot Cross Buns Recipe?

Absolutely! While bread flour creates a fluffier, more tender bun due to its higher protein content, all-purpose flour works just fine if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep an eye on the dough’s consistency as it may require slight adjustments in flour quantity.

What’s the best way to check if my yeast is still active?

Mix a teaspoon of yeast with a bit of sugar and warm water and wait 10 minutes. If it gets foamy and smells pleasantly yeasty, it’s good to use. If not, it’s time to get fresh yeast for the best rise.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! After the first rise, shape the buns and place them on a tray covered and refrigerated overnight. When ready, take them out to warm up and finish their second rise before baking. This slow fermentation enhances flavor wonderfully.

Are there alternatives to sultanas for the fillings?

Definitely. You can swap in chocolate chips for a luscious twist, or try candied citrus peel for a brighter zing. Both add delicious variations while keeping the spirit of the original recipe.

How do I get the crosses to look neat and not runny?

Make sure your flour-and-water paste is thick but runny enough to pipe smoothly. Practice piping on the side to get a feel for the flow before decorating. Go slow and hug the buns’ rounded tops carefully to create crisp, distinct crosses.

Final Thoughts

This Hot Cross Buns Recipe is a joy to make and even more wonderful to share with loved ones. From the first fragrant whiff to the last bite of tender, spiced bun, it’s a comforting treat that’s perfect for any season. I can’t wait for you to try making these buns yourself and experience that lovely homemade magic filling your kitchen and heart.