Irresistible Hot Cross Buns Recipe with Zesty Lemon Glaze
This hot cross buns recipe features sweet spices and a zesty lemon glaze, perfect for spring celebrations.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Whisk
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup Dried Currants Can substitute with raisins or sultanas.
- 1 cup Whole Milk Can use almond milk for dairy-free.
- 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast Ensure it's fresh.
- 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Brown sugar works too.
- 4 cups All-Purpose Flour Whole wheat can be used.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Sea salt can be used.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Nutmeg can add extra flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Omit if undesired.
- 1 large Egg Yolk Aquafaba can be used for vegan.
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter Margarine can be substituted.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Use imitation or omit if needed.
For the Glaze
- 1 cup Confectioners' Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Lime zest can be used as an alternative.
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
For the Egg Wash
- 1 large Egg
Instructions
Preparation
- Soak dried currants in boiling water for 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let sit until foamy for 5-10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and the remaining sugar.
- Add yeast mixture, egg yolk, melted butter, and vanilla to dry mix, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 60-90 minutes.
- Once risen, punch down dough and divide into 12 portions. Shape into balls and place seam-side down.
- Cover with plastic wrap and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare egg wash and brush over the tops of the buns.
- Bake for 22-25 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. Cool on a wire rack.
- Whisk together confectioners' sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Drizzle over cooled buns.
Notes
Optional: Drizzle additional glaze over individual buns when serving for extra zest.