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Hot Cross Buns from Scratch

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Deliciously soft and spiced hot cross buns made from scratch, perfect for a traditional Easter treat or anytime you crave a sweet, aromatic bread with fruity notes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1 1/4 cups warm milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup mixed dried fruit (currants, raisins, chopped dried apricots)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • For the cross:
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup water
  • For the glaze:
  • 1/4 cup apricot jam
  • 1 tbsp water

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. Add the melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
  6. Once risen, punch the dough down and knead in the dried fruit evenly.
  7. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each into a bun. Place buns on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, spaced slightly apart.
  8. Cover buns and let them rise for another 45 minutes until puffy.
  9. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  10. Mix the flour and water for the cross into a thick paste. Transfer to a piping bag or plastic bag with a corner cut off.
  11. Pipe crosses onto the tops of the buns.
  12. Bake buns for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  13. While baking, heat apricot jam and water in a small saucepan until smooth, then strain if necessary.
  14. Remove buns from oven and brush with warm apricot glaze to give a shiny finish.
  15. Allow to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For extra flavor, serve warm with a pat of butter or lightly toasted with honey drizzled on top.

Find it online: https://seasonedrecipe.com/hot-cross-buns-from-scratch/