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Hot Cross Buns with Orange Glaze

Close-up of Hot Cross Buns with Orange Glaze, one bun broken open showing the soft interior.
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A detailed recipe for making soft, spiced Hot Cross Buns from scratch, finished with a bright, simple orange glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup milk, warmed
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar plus 1 teaspoon for yeast
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1/2 cup raisins or mixed dried fruit
  • For the Crosses: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and 3 tablespoons water
  • For the Orange Glaze: 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Instructions

  1. Combine the warm milk and 1 teaspoon of sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and remaining 1/4 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the yeast mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  5. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Mix in the orange zest and dried fruit during the last minute of kneading.
  6. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  7. Punch down the dough gently. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and shape each into a smooth ball. Place the balls close together in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
  8. Cover the pan and let the buns rise again for 30 to 45 minutes, or until puffy. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  9. Prepare the cross mixture by whisking the 1/4 cup flour and 3 tablespoons water until smooth. Transfer this paste to a piping bag or a small plastic bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe a cross shape onto the top of each bun.
  10. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
  11. While the buns cool slightly, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth.
  12. Brush the warm buns generously with the orange glaze immediately after removing them from the oven. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For the softest buns, ensure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
  • If you prefer a thicker cross, use slightly less water in the cross paste mixture.
  • To achieve a very soft texture, allow the buns to proof in a slightly humid, warm environment.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://spoonfulsnap.com/hot-cross-buns-with-orange-glaze/