Hot cross buns are a beloved Easter treat that have delighted Australians for generations. Their soft, spiced dough, sweet glaze, and signature cross make them a cherished favourite, whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted with butter. For many, baking hot cross buns at home is a rewarding experience, one that fills the kitchen with the comforting aroma of spices and fresh bread. If you've been hesitant to try your hand at this classic recipe, worry not! This guide will walk you through the process step by step, ensuring delicious results you'll be proud to share.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What Makes Hot Cross Buns Special?
Ingredients You'll Need
Step-By-Step Guide To Making Hot Cross Buns
Alternate Dietary Options
Tips For Perfect Hot Cross Buns
Enjoying Your Hot Cross Buns
Result - Healthiest Hot Cross Buns
What Makes Hot Cross Buns Special?
Hot cross buns stand out not just for their taste but also for their rich history. Traditionally baked to mark Good Friday, these buns are steeped in symbolism, from the cross symbolising the Crucifixion to the spices representing the embalming of Jesus. Today, they have become a year-round treat, but their connection to Easter remains strong.
What truly sets hot cross buns apart are their distinct flavours and textures:
Spicing It Up
A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves infuses the dough with a warm and aromatic profile.
Fruitful Addition
Traditionally made with currants or sultanas, the dried fruit adds sweetness and texture.
Signature Glaze
A glossy topping gives the buns their inviting sheen while enhancing their sweetness.
Ingredients You'll Need
Before you begin baking, gather your ingredients. While the list may seem long, many items are pantry staples or easily found at your local supermarket. Here's what you'll need:
For the Dough:
4 cups plain flour
2 teaspoons mixed spice
1/3 cup sugar
1 sachet of instant yeast (7g)
1 ½ cups warm milk
1 egg
60g butter, melted
1 cup sultanas or currants
For the Cross:
1/2 cup plain flour
1/3 cup water
For the Glaze:
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon gelatine (optional for a thick glaze)
Step-By-Step Guide To Making Hot Cross Buns
1. Prepare the Dough
Combine flour, mixed spice, yeast, and sugar in a large mixing bowl.
Warm the milk until it's lukewarm - not too hot, as it may kill the yeast. Stir in the melted butter and beaten egg. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients.
Mix them together until they form a sticky dough, then knead it on a floured surface for about 10 minutes. If you're using a mixer with a dough hook, knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Fold in the sultanas or currants, making sure they are evenly distributed.
2. Allow the Dough to Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean tea towel, and leave it in a warm spot to double in size. This usually takes about an hour. To speed up the process, you can leave it close to a sunny window or in a slightly warmed (but turned off) oven.
3. Shape the Buns
Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air.
Divide it into 12 even portions and shape them into smooth balls. Arrange them in a greased or baking paper-lined baking tray, ensuring they’re close enough to touch slightly as they bake.
4. Add the Cross
Mix the flour and water for the cross into a thick paste. Transfer it to a piping bag or a zip-lock bag with a small corner cut off. Pipe a cross on top of each bun. Keep a steady hand for neat results.
5. Bake and Glaze
Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan-forced). Bake the buns for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the base.
While the buns bake, prepare the glaze by dissolving sugar (and gelatine, if using) in boiling water until clear. Brush the glaze over the buns as soon as they come out of the oven for a shiny finish.
Alternate Dietary Options
Everyone should be able to enjoy hot cross buns, so here are some simple swaps for common dietary needs:
Gluten-Free
Flour: Replace plain flour with a good-quality gluten-free plain flour blend, ideally one with a binder such as xanthan gum to help the dough hold together.
Kneading: Gluten-free doughs can be stickier and don’t always become elastic; knead gently and handle minimally.
Cross Paste: Use gluten-free flour for the cross paste as well.
Baking Time: Gluten-free buns may bake slightly faster, so start checking for doneness after 18 minutes.
Texture: Expect a slightly denser bun, but the flavour should remain delightful.
Dairy-Free
Milk: Use an unsweetened dairy-free milk alternative, such as almond, soy, or oat milk.
Butter: Substitute regular butter with a dairy-free spread or soft margarine.
Glaze: Ensure margarine or spread used in the glaze is dairy-free, if required.
Results: There’s no need to adjust baking times; dairy-free swaps will yield a soft and moist result.
Vegan
Milk and Butter: Follow the dairy-free swaps above for milk and butter.
Egg: Replace the egg with one of the following: 1 tablespoon chia or flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water (let sit until gelled), or use a commercial egg replacer.
Glaze: Skip any gelatine and just use sugar and water for a plant-based glaze.
Fruit: Vegan buns can still use all the traditional dried fruits or chocolate chips (ensure vegan-friendly chocolate).
Rising and Baking: Rising times stay the same, but check buns at the early end of the baking window (20 minutes).
Prep and Cooking Notes: Alternative doughs, especially gluten-free, may require more gentle handling and a slightly longer rise. If your dough seems dry when using gluten-free or dairy/egg-replacers, add a splash more milk substitute. Vegan and gluten-free buns may not brown as much, but don’t let them overbake - check for a firm top and hollow sound when tapped.
With these simple tweaks, everyone at your table can enjoy a fresh batch of hot cross buns - no one has to miss out!
Tips For Perfect Hot Cross Buns
Use Fresh Yeast or Check Its Activity
Ensure your yeast is active by blooming it in warm milk with sugar if unsure of its freshness.
Don’t Skimp on Kneading
Proper kneading ensures a soft and airy texture, so take your time.
Experiment with Flavours
While sultanas are traditional, you can substitute them with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips.
Make It a Family Affair
Get the kids involved with rolling the dough or piping the crosses. It's a fun activity that brings everyone together.
Toast Leftovers
If you have extras, toast them lightly and serve with butter for a quick breakfast or snack.
Enjoying Your Hot Cross Buns
Hot cross buns are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, when their aroma and taste are at their peak. Pair them with:
A steaming cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
A dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
A smear of butter and a drizzle of honey to enhance their sweetness.
For a creative twist, slice leftover buns in half, dip them in beaten egg, and fry them for a unique take on French toast. This variation makes for a delightful Easter breakfast.
Result - Healthiest Hot Cross Buns
Baking hot cross buns at home is a rewarding way to connect with tradition while indulging in a universally loved treat. With this straightforward recipe and practical tips, your buns will not only taste incredible but also fill your home with the warmth and nostalgia of Easter. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying this for the first time, remember that the joy lies in the process as much as the end result.
Bring delight to your table this Easter with homemade hot cross buns. Perfectly spiced, tender, and irresistible, they’re sure to become a family favourite for years to come.