When the springtime sun peeks through the clouds, signaling the arrival of Easter, I can’t help but reminisce about the delightful scent of freshly baked Hot Cross Buns that wafted through my kitchen as a child. These tender rolls, bursting with juicy currants and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, always felt special. What sets them apart is the zesty lemon glaze that shines on top, elevating their soft, fluffy texture and transforming them into an irresistible centerpiece for any brunch table.
This classic Hot Cross Buns recipe not only captures memories of joyful gatherings but also weaves comfort and nostalgia into every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with family or treating yourself to a leisurely breakfast, these buns promise to deliver warmth and happiness. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the art of creating these delightful treats that will make your Easter brunch memorable!
Why choose this hot cross buns recipe?
Irresistible aroma: The delightful scent of spices and freshly baked bread will fill your kitchen, creating a warm atmosphere.
Easy Preparation: Even novice bakers can achieve stunning results thanks to straightforward steps and helpful tips.
Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 soft, fluffy buns, making it ideal for gatherings or simply treating yourself and loved ones.
Versatile Flavor Options: Feel free to customize with different dried fruits or spices to suit your taste; the possibilities are endless!
Touch of Elegance: The lemon glaze adds a refreshing tang, transforming these buns into a standout dish at any brunch.
Hot Cross Buns Ingredients
• Get ready to fill your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia!
For the Dough
- Dried Currants – Adds sweetness and texture; use raisins for a milder flavor.
- Whole Milk (heated to 110°) – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s warm but not boiling to keep the yeast alive.
- Active Dry Yeast (1/4-oz. packages) – The leavening agent; check for freshness by confirming it foams in warm milk.
- Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup plus 1 tsp.) – Provides necessary sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
- All-Purpose Flour (3 1/2 cups) – Gives structure; for chewier buns, substitute with bread flour.
- Kosher Salt (1 1/4 tsp.) – Enhances flavor; regular table salt works too; adjust slightly.
- Ground Cinnamon (1/2 tsp.) – Invokes warmth; substitute with pumpkin pie spice for a fun twist.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/4 tsp.) – Complements cinnamon; freshly grated offers a deeper flavor.
- Large Egg Yolk – Adds richness and promotes browning; consider a flax egg for a vegan version.
- Unsalted Butter (6 Tbsp., melted) – Enhances flavor and texture; swap with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Pure Vanilla Extract (2 tsp.) – Adds depth to the dough.
For the Egg Wash
- Large Egg – Gives a beautiful shine to the buns when brushed on before baking.
For the Glaze
- Confectioners’ Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens and thickens the glaze; powdered erythritol works for a low-sugar alternative.
- Whole Milk (2 Tbsp.) – Thins the glaze to the perfect consistency.
- Finely Grated Lemon Zest (1/2 tsp.) – Brings brightness to the glaze.
- Fresh Lemon Juice (1 tsp.) – Adds tartness that perfectly complements the sweetness of your hot cross buns recipe.
With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from creating delightful Hot Cross Buns that will brighten any Easter brunch!
How to Make Hot Cross Buns
Soak currants: Place the dried currants in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Drain well and set them aside while you prepare the dough for optimal plumpness.
Activate yeast: In a medium bowl, mix the warm milk (heated to 110°F), yeast, and 1 tsp. of sugar. Allow this to sit until it becomes foamy, roughly 5-10 minutes.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, remaining sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined. This ensures a well-balanced flavor throughout the buns.
Combine wet ingredients: Add the yeast mixture, egg yolk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir everything together to create a shaggy dough that begins to form.
Knead the dough: On a floured surface, knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic. This helps develop gluten, which is essential for a fluffy texture.
First rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, approximately 60-90 minutes.
Shape the rolls: Once risen, turn out the dough onto a floured surface and pat it into an oval. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each into a roll.
Second rise: Arrange the rolls seam-side down in a greased baking dish, cover, and allow them to rise until doubled, about 30-45 minutes.
Preheat oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures a perfect baking temperature that yields golden-brown buns.
Bake the buns: Brush the tops of the rolls with egg wash and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Prepare the glaze: While the buns cool on a wire rack, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, milk, lemon zest, and juice until smooth. This zesty glaze will add a perfect finishing touch.
Glaze the buns: Once cooled, spoon the lemon glaze over the buns in a cross shape, creating that traditional touch for your hot cross buns.
Optional: Serve warm with butter for a delightful treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Hot Cross Buns?
Imagine a delightful spread that complements the sweet, spiced warmth of your freshly baked buns while inviting joyful conversations around the table.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the buns, enhancing your brunch presentation.
- Creamy Butter: Serve softened butter on the side, allowing guests to slather it generously on warm buns, creating a luscious mouthfeel.
- Honey or Jam: Drizzle local honey or spread your favorite fruit jam for an extra layer of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the lemon glaze.
- Cinnamon Coffee: A warming cinnamon-infused coffee offers a cozy beverage option that echoes the spiced notes of the hot cross buns.
For a more festive touch, consider pairing with a Sparkling Lemonade. The effervescence and citrus zing not only cleanse the palate but also enhance the bright flavors of your buns.
- Egg Salad Sandwiches: A savory option that balances the sweetness of the buns, creating a well-rounded meal perfect for sharing.
- Easter Ham: A slice of tender, glazed ham offers a savory contrast, making your brunch table a deliciously diverse celebration of flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Hot Cross Buns
Room Temperature: Keep the hot cross buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and softness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked buns in a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually for easy thawing.
Thawing: Thaw frozen hot cross buns at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in the microwave or toaster oven for best results.
Reheating: To enjoy the warm, fluffy texture, reheat buns in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Expert Tips for Hot Cross Buns
Yeast Check: Ensure yeast is alive: Always test yeast by looking for foam in warm milk; dead yeast results in dense buns.
Resting Time: Don’t rush the rises: Allow proper rising times to create light and airy hot cross buns; skipped rests lead to denser texture.
Dough Texture: Knead until smooth: Proper kneading develops gluten—aim for soft and elastic dough, which directly affects bun fluffiness.
Glaze Application: Use a piping bag: For beautifully finished buns, spoon glaze over in a cross shape using a piping bag for neatness.
Storage Tips: Keep them fresh: Store hot cross buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer enjoyment.
Hot Cross Buns Variations
Customize your Hot Cross Buns with these delightful twists and swaps that will keep your taste buds dancing!
Dried Fruit Swap: Replace currants with dried apricots or cranberries for a fruity explosion of flavor. Their vibrant colors and tastes will liven up your buns beautifully.
Chocolate Indulgence: Add chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet treat that feels like dessert! Imagine biting into a warm bun and discovering pockets of melted chocolate – bliss!
Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or allspice for a unique flavor profile. Just a pinch can take your Hot Cross Buns from ordinary to extraordinary!
Nuts for Crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and nuttiness. It provides a delightful contrast to the soft, fluffy dough and enhances the overall experience.
Zesty Lemon Boost: Fold in additional lemon zest or a teaspoon of orange zest for an extra citrusy kick. It adds brightness and takes the flavor to new heights.
Vegan Version: Substitute the egg yolk with a flax egg and replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. You can enjoy these luscious buns without compromising your values!
Gluten-Free Goodies: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs. With the right mix, you can achieve a similar fluffy texture everyone will love.
Heat it Up: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños to create a spicy version. The heat beautifully complements the sweetness for an adventurous twist that your friends will be talking about!
Make Ahead Options
These classic hot cross buns are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hustle and bustle of Easter preparations! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe until the first rise, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping it into rolls. The shaped buns can also be made in advance and left to rise for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to cover them well to maintain moisture. On baking day, simply preheat your oven and follow the remaining steps for delicious, freshly baked hot cross buns that are just as delightful as if they were made on the spot!
Classic Hot Cross Buns with Lemon Glaze Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for the hot cross buns?
Absolutely! When selecting dried currants, look for plump, shiny ones without any dark spots or signs of hardening. For the milk, ensure it’s fresh and at the right temperature – heated to 110°F, warm but not boiling, to activate your yeast without killing it.
What is the best way to store hot cross buns, and how long do they last?
Very simple! Keep your hot cross buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps retain their softness and freshness. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them – they can stay good for up to 3 months!
How do I freeze hot cross buns properly?
Of course! To freeze your hot cross buns, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top bag or an airtight container. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Oh no! If your dough isn’t rising, first check if your yeast is active. Mix it with warm milk and a bit of sugar; after 5-10 minutes, it should foam up. If not, the yeast may be expired. Ensure your dough rises in a warm, draft-free place – sometimes a cozy oven can help! If the dough doesn’t rise after this, try kneading a bit more to develop the gluten.
Are these hot cross buns safe for people with allergies?
Definitely! If you have allergies, simply adjust the ingredients as needed. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, use a flax egg instead of a regular egg for vegan options, and choose dairy-free butter alternatives if lactose is a concern. Always check food labels for any specific allergies, as some ingredients can vary by brand.
Can I use different types of fruits in my hot cross buns?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely swap out the currants for other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a unique twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding chocolate chips for a sweet surprise or different spices like cardamom for a warm flavor. Experimenting is part of the fun!
Homemade Hot Cross Buns Recipe with a Zesty Lemon Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak currants in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 tsp. sugar. Let sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, remaining sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add yeast mixture, egg yolk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to dry ingredients. Stir to create a shaggy dough.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until soft and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 60-90 minutes.
- Turn out risen dough onto floured surface, pat into an oval, and divide into 12 equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a roll and arrange seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Brush rolls with egg wash and bake for 22-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Whisk together confectioners' sugar, milk, lemon zest, and juice for glaze.
- Once buns are cooled, spoon glaze over buns in a cross shape.