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A batch of golden brown Traditional Hot Cross Buns with white flour crosses and a shiny glaze on a baking tray.
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Traditional Hot Cross Buns

Prep Time2 hours 30 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 285kcal

Ingredients

  • 500 g strong bread flour
  • 75 g caster sugar
  • 1 tsp ground mixed spice
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 7 g fast -action dried yeast
  • 40 g unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg , beaten
  • 300 ml whole milk, lukewarm
  • 150 g sultanas or currants
  • 50 g mixed peel
  • 75 g plain flour (for the cross)
  • 5 tbsp water (for the cross)
  • 2 tbsp apricot jam or sugar syrup (for glaze)

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the bread flour, sugar, spices, and yeast.
  • Create a well in the center and add the lukewarm milk, beaten egg, and softened butter.
  • Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Knead in the sultanas and mixed peel until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
  • Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and roll into smooth balls.
  • Place buns on a lined baking tray, cover, and let proof for 45 minutes until doubled in size.
  • Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F). Mix the plain flour and water into a thick, pipeable paste.
  • Pipe a cross onto the center of each bun using the flour paste.
  • Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown and the base sounds hollow when tapped.
  • Warm the apricot jam and brush over the buns while still hot to create a sticky glaze.