Hot cross buns, soft and spiced sweet buns, perfect for celebrating the holidays or just treating yourself to a special breakfast.
Originating from Anglo-Saxon tradition, they are decorated with the characteristic cross and enriched with raisins and cinnamon, making them irresistible. The preparation involves simple rising and the addition of a sweet and shiny glaze, giving an irresistible touch.
This recipe is ideal for those who love homemade baked goods and are looking for a dessert or snack that combines traditional flavors with an attractive look. Perfect to enjoy freshly baked or slightly toasted, these buns are suitable for endless occasions.
At the end of the recipe, in the FAQ section, I have answered some questions regarding this preparation. If you still have doubts or curiosities, write a comment or use the appropriate contact form you find at the bottom of the page.
Other recipes you might like

- Difficulty: Medium
- Cost: Economical
- Preparation time: 30 Minutes
- Portions: 8 Pieces
- Cooking methods: Oven
- Cuisine: English
- Seasonality: All seasons
- Energy 275.90 (Kcal)
- Carbohydrates 48.23 (g) of which sugars 23.58 (g)
- Proteins 6.96 (g)
- Fat 6.70 (g) of which saturated 3.52 (g)of which unsaturated 2.13 (g)
- Fibers 1.33 (g)
- Sodium 66.74 (mg)
Indicative values for a portion of 70 g processed in an automated way starting from the nutritional information available on the CREA* and FoodData Central** databases. It is not food and / or nutritional advice.
* CREATES Food and Nutrition Research Center: https://www.crea.gov.it/alimenti-e-nutrizione https://www.alimentinutrizione.it ** U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov
Ingredients for hot cross buns
- 6 oz milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 2 1/4 cups Manitoba flour
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch salt
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp cream cheese
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp butter
Tools
- Bowls
- Mixer
- Saucepan
- Work surface
- Brush
- Piping bag
Hot cross buns recipe
Begin the preparation of hot cross buns by soaking the raisins for 30 minutes in water or rum.
In a bowl, put the sugar, milk, and dry yeast.
Let the yeast dissolve for 5-10 minutes and then add an egg and the butter. Mix and set aside.Put the flour, salt, and cinnamon in the mixer bowl.
Combine the liquid ingredients with the dry ones and knead with a spiral hook for 15 minutes.
Add the raisins and knead for another 5 minutes.
Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl and let it rise until it doubles in size.Place the risen dough on a work surface.
Divide it into 8 parts with a knife or dough scraper.Shape as many balls with your hands, making sure to make the dough as smooth as possible.
Transfer the buns to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Let the buns rise for another hour.
Put equal amounts of sugar and water in a saucepan.
Cook the syrup over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.Bake the risen buns in a preheated static oven at 375°F for about 15 minutes.
Brush them with the warm syrup and let them dry.
Prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, cream cheese, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Transfer the glaze to a piping bag.
Take the buns and form the classic glaze crosses on the buns.
Serve the hot cross buns for breakfast or as a snack. You can eat them as is or fill them with jams and spreads.
Hot cross buns
Refer to this section to clear your doubts, if you don’t find the answer to your question, comment or write using the form below.
You can find many ideas for baked goods in the collection Easy and delicious sweet and savory baked goods
FAQ
Can I use another type of flour instead of Manitoba?
Yes, you can substitute Manitoba flour with a high-gluten bread flour, such as bread flour or all-purpose flour.
Can I make hot cross buns without butter?
Yes, you can replace butter with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free version, though the flavor might be slightly different.
How can I store hot cross buns?
Store the hot cross buns in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. To extend freshness, you can also freeze them and thaw as needed.
Also try the Baked English muffins
For questions, curiosities, or if you want to collaborate with me, use the contact form below:
[contact-form-7 id=”d8b7d03″ title=”Contact Me”]