Hot Cross Buns

Hot cross buns are a delightful treat, especially when they’re soft, fragrant, and packed with flavor.
Here’s a detailed recipe for making delicious soft hot cross buns:

Ingredients:

For the Buns:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 1/4 cups warm milk (110°F/45°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup raisins or currants
• Zest of 1 orange (optional)

For the Crosses:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 5-6 tablespoons water
• For the Glaze:
• 1/4 cup apricot jam or honey
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
   2. Mix well.
   3. Make a well in the center and add the melted butter, beaten egg, activated yeast mixture, raisins or currants, and orange zest (if using).
   4. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
   1. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
   2. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
   3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Buns:
   1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
   2. Divide the dough into equal-sized portions and shape each portion into a smooth ball.
   3. Place the shaped buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them for expansion.
5. Make the Crosses:
   1. In a small bowl, mix together the flour and water to form a thick paste.
   2. Transfer the paste to a piping bag or a plastic bag with a corner snipped off.
   3. Pipe a cross shape onto the top of each bun.
6. Let the Buns Rise Again:
   1. Cover the buns with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let them rise in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until they double in size again.
7. Bake the Buns:
   1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   2. Once the buns have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Make the Glaze:
   1. In a small saucepan, heat the apricot jam or honey with water until it becomes liquid.
   2. Brush the warm glaze over the hot cross buns as soon as they come out of the oven.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
   1. Let the hot cross buns cool slightly before serving.
   2. Enjoy these soft and fragrant buns warm or at room temperature, with a cup of tea or coffee.
   3. These delicious soft hot cross buns are perfect for Easter or any time you’re craving a comforting and sweet treat.
   4. Enjoy!