Soft Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Why I Love Making Hot Cross Buns at Home

• Unmatched freshness: Nothing beats a warm, just baked bun.
• Make ahead friendly: Perfect for prepping the night before and baking in the morning.
• Beautiful presentation: The piped flour cross gives them that signature look.
• Customizable flavor: Add ins like orange zest or cranberries elevate the taste.
• They freeze well: Bake now, enjoy later no compromise on texture.

Whether it’s Easter, Sunday brunch, or just a cozy evening craving, these buns are my go to treat. Pair them with a pot of tea, some butter, and you’ve got pure heaven.

Step by Step Guide to Making Soft Hot Cross Buns

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 325g (2 and 1/2 cups) of all purpose flour ?
• 150ml (1/2 cup + 2 tbsp) of whole milk ?
• 50g (1/4 cup) of granulated sugar ?
• 2 tsp of instant yeast ?
• 1/2 tsp of cinnamon powder ?
• 1/2 tsp of ground allspice ?️
• 3/4 tsp of salt ?
• 1 egg ?
• 1/3 cup of raisins ?

Step by Step Directions

1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, allspice, and salt.

2: Warm the Milk

• Heat the milk in a saucepan until warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.

3: Create the Dough

• Gradually add the warm milk to the dry mix, stirring continuously.
• Mix in the egg and knead until a soft dough forms.

4: Knead the Dough

• Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.

5: Add the Raisins

• Gently fold in the raisins until evenly distributed.

6: First Rise

• Place in a greased bowl, cover, and rest for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

7: Shape the Buns

• Divide into 12 equal balls, place on a parchment lined tray.

8: Second Rise

• Cover and let rest another 30-45 minutes.

9: Pipe the Cross

• Mix 3 tbsp flour with water to form a thick paste.
• Pipe a cross over each bun using a bag or piping tool.

10: Bake

• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.

11: Cool and Serve

• Cool on a wire rack and serve warm or at room temp.