Print

Hot Cross Buns

Hot Cross Buns

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Hot Cross Buns are a delightful treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. This easy recipe yields fluffy, spiced buns filled with juicy raisins, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or desserts. With their signature cross on top and aromatic blend of cinnamon, these buns can be enjoyed year-round—not just during the holiday season. Whether served warm with butter or toasted with jam, they make an inviting addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • ¼ cup warm water
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons instant or active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • ¼ cup melted unsalted butter
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 3 to 3.5 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar; let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and remaining sugar.
  3. Add warm milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and frothy yeast mixture to dry ingredients; mix until combined.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface or with a stand mixer until smooth and elastic (8-10 minutes).
  5. Place in a greased bowl and cover with a towel; let rise in a warm area until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
  6. Punch down dough gently; incorporate raisins evenly throughout and divide into equal portions (12 pieces). Shape into balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Cover buns with a towel again; let rise for another hour until puffed up.
  8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
  9. Prepare glaze by mixing flour with water; use to create crosses on cooled buns.

Nutrition