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Soft Hot Cross Buns

Soft Hot Cross Buns: How to Make the Best Fluffy Treats


  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 3 hours
  • Yield: 12 buns 1x

Description

Traditional hot cross buns with dried fruit, perfectly spiced and topped with classic flour crosses.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • ¼ cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup mixed dried fruit
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • For crosses: ½ cup flour mixed with water

Instructions

  1. Warm milk to approximately 80°F and combine with yeast.
  2. Mix flour, sugar, spices, and salt in a large bowl.
  3. Add eggs, butter, and dried fruit to form a dough.
  4. Knead until smooth and elastic.
  5. Let rise until doubled in size.
  6. Shape into buns and make crosses with thick flour paste.
  7. Bake until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190°F.

Notes

  • Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated overnight.
  • Ensure yeast is fresh and environment is around 80°F for proper rising.
  • Egg can be substituted with flax eggs or applesauce.
  • Cross paste should be thick enough to hold shape.
  • Use only dried fruit; fresh fruit adds too much moisture.
  • Buns are done when golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: British

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bun
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: hot cross buns, easter bread, dried fruit buns, traditional bread, british baking