Description
Soft and spiced Hot Cross Buns with orange zest, raisins, and a glossy jam glaze—perfect for Easter brunch or cozy springtime mornings.
Ingredients
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2½ cups cake or plain flour
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2 teaspoons yeast
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¼ teaspoon salt
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¼ cup sugar
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2 teaspoons cinnamon powder
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2 teaspoons mixed spice
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1 egg
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¾ cup warm milk
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2 tablespoons melted margarine
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Zest of 1 orange
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¾ cup raisins
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1 tablespoon warmed jam (for glazing)
For the Crosses:
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¼ cup cake or plain flour
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2–3 tablespoons water
Instructions
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Combine flour, yeast, salt, sugar, cinnamon, and mixed spice in a large mixing bowl.
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In another bowl, whisk warm milk, egg, margarine, and orange zest.
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Pour wet ingredients into dry; mix into sticky dough.
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Knead dough with raisins for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
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Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
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Punch down, divide into 12 balls, and arrange on greased tray. Let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
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Mix flour and water into a paste. Pipe a cross over each bun.
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Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes, until golden.
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While warm, brush with jam for a glossy finish.
Notes
- Swap raisins with currants or dried cranberries for variation.
- For richer flavor, add a dash of nutmeg or cloves.
- Best enjoyed fresh, but can be toasted the next day.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes + Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British