Hot Cross Buns Recipe – A Traditional Easter Bread with a Modern Twist
Hot cross buns, a staple of Easter with roots in the Middle Ages, symbolize renewal and spring. This recipe guides you through making these soft, spiced rolls marked with a signature cross. Perfect for beginners, it delivers golden, fluffy buns filled with spices, citrus zest, and raisins—ideal for celebrating or comforting homemade baking.
Hot Cross Buns Recipe | Easy Hot Cross Bun Bread Recipe for Easter & Holidays
DifficultyMedium
Servings12 Buns
Prep time1 hour40 minutes
Cook time20 minutes
Total time2 hours
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsps (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp cloves
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup usalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins or currants
- Zest of 1 orange
For the Cross:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup water
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup apricot jam or honey
- 1 tbsp hot water
Let's Get Cooking!
Instructions:
- 1
Activate the Yeast
- In a bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- 2
Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Knead by hand or using a stand mixer for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Fold in raisins and orange zest.
- 3
Let the Dough Rise
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- 4
Shape the Buns
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape into balls.
- Place on a lined baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.
- Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- 5
Pipe the Crosses
- Mix flour and water to make a thick paste.
- Pipe a cross shape over each bun.
- 6
Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown.
- 7
Glaze and Serve
- Brush warm buns with apricot jam glaze for shine.
- Let cool slightly, then serve warm!
Equipment
Recipe Notes and Variations
Recipe Notes for the Best Hot Cross Buns
How to Get Perfectly Soft and Fluffy Hot Cross Buns
- Use Warm Milk for the Dough: The milk should be around 110°F (43°C) to properly activate the yeast. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast, and if it’s too cold, the dough won’t rise well.
- Knead Until Smooth & Elastic: Kneading for at least 8-10 minutes ensures the dough develops enough gluten for a soft, fluffy texture.
- Let the Dough Rise in a Warm Place: If your kitchen is cold, place the bowl inside a slightly warm oven (turned off) or near a sunny window.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake just until golden brown (18-20 minutes). Overbaking can make the buns too dry.
- For Extra Softness, Brush with Butter After Baking: A light butter glaze keeps the buns moist and tender.
How to Make the Buns More Flavorful
- Use a Combination of Spices: A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cardamom enhances the warm, aromatic flavor.
- Add Extra Citrus Zest: Lemon or tangerine zest can add an extra pop of brightness.
- Soak the Raisins for Juicier Buns: Soaking raisins or currants in warm orange juice or rum for 10 minutes before adding them to the dough makes them plumper and more flavorful.
Variations of Hot Cross Buns
1. Classic Hot Cross Bun Variations
✔ Chocolate Chip Hot Cross Buns:
- Swap the raisins for mini chocolate chips for a more indulgent twist.
✔ Nutty Hot Cross Buns:
- Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
✔ Apple Cinnamon Hot Cross Buns:
- Mix ½ cup finely diced apples into the dough for a fresh, fruity flavor.
✔ Coconut & Pineapple Hot Cross Buns:
- Add shredded coconut and chopped dried pineapple for a tropical touch.
2. Alternative Flour & Dietary Variations
✔ Gluten-Free Hot Cross Buns:
- Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and add 1 teaspoon xanthan gum to help with elasticity.
✔ Dairy-Free Hot Cross Buns:
- Swap butter for coconut oil and milk for almond, soy, or oat milk.
✔ Vegan Hot Cross Buns:
- Use dairy-free butter and milk and replace the eggs with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg).
3. Sweet & Savory Glaze Variations
✔ Honey Butter Glaze:
- Instead of apricot jam, brush the buns with melted honey and butter for extra shine.
✔ Orange Marmalade Glaze:
- Mix orange marmalade with a splash of warm water for a citrusy finish.
✔ Spiced Sugar Glaze:
- Stir powdered sugar with cinnamon and a bit of milk for a sweet-spiced drizzle.
✔ Maple Syrup Glaze:
- Swap out the jam for a light maple syrup glaze for extra depth of flavor.
4. Savory Hot Cross Buns Variations
✔ Cheese & Herb Hot Cross Buns:
- Reduce the sugar in the dough and add shredded cheddar, fresh thyme, and rosemary for a savory version.
✔ Garlic Parmesan Hot Cross Buns:
- Mix grated Parmesan and roasted garlic into the dough, and brush the tops with garlic butter after baking.
✔ Caramelized Onion & Feta Buns:
- Add caramelized onions and crumbled feta cheese for a sweet-savory balance.
5. How to Serve & Pair Hot Cross Buns
✔ Classic Butter & Jam:
- Serve warm with butter, honey, or jam for a simple, comforting breakfast.
✔ Toasted with Cream Cheese:
- Lightly toast and spread with cream cheese for a tangy contrast.
✔ As French Toast:
- Slice leftover buns and dip in an egg-milk mixture for delicious hot cross bun French toast.
✔ With Clotted Cream & Tea:
- A traditional British-style pairing with a warm cup of Earl Grey or black tea.
✔ Turn into Bread Pudding:
- Tear leftover buns into pieces, soak them in custard (milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla), and bake into a hot cross bun bread pudding.
6. Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
✔ Make-Ahead Dough:
- Prepare the dough, let it rise once, then cover and refrigerate overnight.
- The next morning, bring to room temperature, shape, and let rise before baking.
✔ How to Store Fresh Hot Cross Buns:
- Keep buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
✔ Best Way to Freeze Hot Cross Buns:
- Freeze fully baked buns in a ziplock bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds.
✔ Reheating Tips for Best Freshness:
- Oven: Warm at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Toaster Oven: Heat for 3-5 minutes until slightly crisp.
- Microwave: Heat in 10-second intervals until warm but not dried out.
Why You’ll Love This Hot Cross Buns Recipe
✔ Soft, Fluffy, and Light: These buns have the perfect balance of tenderness and structure.
✔ Richly Spiced and Aromatic: A delicious blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and citrus zest makes them deeply flavorful.
✔ Great for Easter & Year-Round Enjoyment: A perfect Easter treat but also great for any special occasion.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or freezing, so you can always have fresh hot cross buns on hand.
✔ Easy to Customize: From fruit-filled to savory, there are endless variations to explore.
Whether you’re celebrating Easter, looking for a comforting baking project, or just love a classic spiced bun, this hot cross buns recipe is a must-try. Enjoy them warm from the oven, toasted with butter, or even transformed into a delicious bread pudding—they’ll be a favorite in no time!
Nutrition
| Calories | 230 |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Sugar | 12g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 2g |
History, Evolution, and Inspiration Behind Hot Cross Buns
The Origins of Hot Cross Buns
The history of hot cross buns dates back to medieval England, where monks first baked these spiced sweet buns to mark Good Friday. The cross on top was meant to symbolize the crucifixion of Jesus, while the spices represented the embalming of Christ.
However, some historians trace the roots of these buns even further, linking them to ancient pagan celebrations of spring. Baked goods marked with a cross or symbol were offered to gods in pre-Christian festivals, signifying prosperity and protection from evil spirits.
Over time, hot cross buns became associated with Easter celebrations across Europe, and eventually, they spread to Australia, America, and beyond. Today, they are enjoyed year-round in many households, often served warm with butter or jam.
The Art of Making the Best Hot Cross Buns
What Makes These Hot Cross Buns Stand Out?
✔ Soft and Pillowy Dough: The use of warm milk, butter, and eggs creates a rich, tender texture.
✔ Perfectly Spiced: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves adds warmth and depth of flavor.
✔ Citrusy & Fruity: Orange zest and plump, juicy raisins or currants bring natural sweetness.
✔ Golden Brown Crust: A touch of egg wash ensures a beautifully shiny exterior.
✔ A Traditional Flour Cross: A simple flour paste piped on top before baking keeps the authentic look.
Interesting Things About This Hot Cross Buns Recipe
- They Can Be Made Ahead: These buns stay fresh for days and are great for meal prepping Easter treats.
- Versatile and Adaptable: You can customize the fruit, spice blend, and glaze to suit your taste.
- A Fun Family Baking Activity: Kids will love helping shape the dough, piping the crosses, and glazing the buns.
An Overview of the Parts of the Recipe
This hot cross buns recipe consists of three key components:
- The Dough: A lightly sweetened, spiced yeast dough with raisins and orange zest.
- The Cross Topping: A simple flour-and-water paste piped onto the buns before baking.
- The Glaze: A shiny, sweet glaze made with apricot jam or honey for that bakery-style finish.
What Occasions Are Hot Cross Buns Good For?
✔ Easter Celebrations: The traditional Easter bread that belongs on every holiday table.
✔ Good Friday Tradition: A classic Good Friday treat that pairs perfectly with tea or coffee.
✔ Brunch & Breakfast: Warm buns spread with butter or jam are a perfect morning indulgence.
✔ Year-Round Enjoyment: Once you make these, you’ll want them all year long!
