Hot Cross Buns

Soft, spiced hot cross buns with raisins and a sweet cross topping. A classic Easter-style bread perfect for breakfast or tea.

These hot cross buns are soft, lightly spiced, and filled with raisins for a classic bakery-style result at home. Finished with a simple flour cross and a glossy glaze, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon tea treat.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon fine salt
• 3/4 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup raisins
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons water, or as needed for the cross paste
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons apricot jam
• 1 tablespoon water for the glaze

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, allspice, and salt.
2. Add the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Work in the raisins during the final minute of kneading.
5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth bun and arrange on a lined baking tray.
7. Cover loosely and let the buns rise for 30 to 40 minutes, until puffy.
8. Preheat the oven to 375 F and mix the powdered sugar with enough water to make a thick paste. Spoon it into a piping bag or zip-top bag.
9. Pipe a cross over each bun.
10. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until golden brown and baked through.
11. Warm the apricot jam with 1 tablespoon water, then brush it over the hot buns for a shiny finish.
12. Let cool slightly before serving.