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
2½ cups cake or plain flour
2 teaspoons yeast
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon powder
2 teaspoons mixed spice
1 egg
¾ cup warm milk
2 tablespoons melted margarine
Zest of 1 orange
¾ cup raisins
1 tablespoon warmed jam (for glazing)
For the Crosses:
¼ cup cake or plain flour
2–3 tablespoons water
Instructions
Combine flour, yeast, salt, sugar, cinnamon, and mixed spice in a large mixing bowl.
In another bowl, whisk warm milk, egg, margarine, and orange zest.
Pour wet ingredients into dry; mix into sticky dough.
Knead dough with raisins for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
Punch down, divide into 12 balls, and arrange on greased tray. Let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
Mix flour and water into a paste. Pipe a cross over each bun.
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes, until golden.
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