How to make Hot Cross Buns

Freshly baked hot cross buns with a golden-brown crust and a white cross on top, arranged on a wooden surface.
These golden buns are soft, sweet, and full of fruity fun. They’ve got a cool, glossy cross on top and are perfect for breakfast, snack time, or showing off your baking skills these Easter school holidays!

For the buns:

  • 4 cups plain flour (plus a little extra for mess!)

  • 2 tsp instant yeast (the magic that makes them rise!)

  • 1/4 cup sugar

  • 1 tsp cinnamon (smells amazing!)

  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1 ½ cups warm milk

  • 1 egg

  • 3 tbsp melted butter

  • 1 cup raisins or currants (or chocolate chips if you’re feeling cheeky!)

For the cross:

  • 1/2 cup flour

  • 1/3 cup water (just enough to make a thick paste)

For the shiny glaze:

  • 1/4 cup sugar

  • 1/4 cup water


Let’s Bake!

Step 1: Mix It All Up!
In a big bowl, mix the flour, sugar, spices, salt, and yeast. Pour in the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir it into a sticky dough. Add your raisins and mix again!

Step 2: Knead It!
Sprinkle some flour on the table. Knead the dough with your hands for about 10 minutes (you’ll get a great arm workout!).

Step 3: Let It Rise!
Put the dough in a bowl, cover it with a tea towel, and let it rest for 1 hour. It’ll grow bigger—like a dough balloon!

Step 4: Shape the Buns!
Divide your dough into 12 little balls and place them close together on a tray. Let them rest again for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Cross!
Mix flour and water to make a thick paste. Use a piping bag or spoon to draw a cross on top of each bun.

Step 6: Bake Time!
Bake the buns at 190°C for 20–25 minutes until they’re golden brown.

Step 7: Glaze & Shine!
Boil the sugar and water for 2 minutes. Brush it on the warm buns to make them shiny and sweet!


Time to Eat!

Serve them warm with butter, jam, or just as they are!


 

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