Quick Hot Cross Buns Recipe: Irresistibly Soft & Spiced Easter Treats 🍞✝️🔥

Introduction to Our Easy Hot Cross Buns

The aroma of freshly baked hot cross buns filling your kitchen is one of the most delightful signs that Easter is approaching. Our simplified easy hot cross buns recipe delivers all the traditional flavors you love – warm spices, plump raisins, and that iconic cross decoration – but with significantly less effort than traditional methods. Whether you’re looking for a special Easter breakfast idea or want to create edible gifts for friends and family, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

Traditional hot cross buns recipes often require multiple rises and complicated techniques, but we’ve streamlined the process without compromising on that authentic taste and texture. The secret lies in our carefully tested ingredient ratios and smart preparation methods. These lightly sweetened buns feature the perfect balance of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, along with juicy raisins (or your favorite dried fruits) in every bite.

If you enjoy baking projects like our hearty lentil soup for cozy meals, you’ll appreciate how this recipe brings the same satisfaction with sweet results. The cross decoration might look professional, but our piping method makes it accessible to everyone – no special skills required!

Ingredients for Perfect Hot Cross Buns

Gathering quality ingredients is the first step to baking success. For this easy hot cross buns recipe, you’ll need:

Main Dough Ingredients:

• 4 cups (500g) bread flour – The high protein content creates better structure
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar – For just the right amount of sweetness
• 2 tsp instant yeast – Makes the rising process quicker and more reliable
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon – The essential warm spice flavor
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg – Adds depth to the spice profile
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves – Just a hint for complexity
• 1 tsp salt – Balances all the flavors
• 1 1/4 cups (300ml) warm milk – About 110°F/43°C for optimal yeast activation
• 1 large egg – Adds richness and helps with browning
• 1/4 cup (60g) melted butter – For tender texture and flavor
• 3/4 cup (120g) raisins or mixed dried fruit – Traditional or try cranberries for variation

For the Signature Cross:

• 1/2 cup (60g) flour – Plain/all-purpose works fine
• 5-6 tbsp water – Adjust for perfect piping consistency

For the Shiny Glaze:

• 2 tbsp apricot jam – Creates that professional bakery shine
• 1 tbsp water – Thins the jam for easy brushing

For those who love experimenting with flavors like in our Korean beef bowl, feel free to customize these buns by adding orange zest, different dried fruits, or even chocolate chips!

Essential Baking Equipment

To make these easy hot cross buns successfully, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools:

• Large mixing bowl – For combining all your ingredients
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional) – Makes kneading effortless, though hand kneading works too
• Baking tray – Half sheet pan (18×13 inches) is ideal
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy
• Pastry brush – For applying the egg wash and glaze
• Piping bag or plastic bag – For creating those perfect crosses
• Kitchen scale (recommended) – For most accurate measurements

Many of these tools are the same ones you’d use for our slow cooker beef recipes, making them versatile investments for your kitchen.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dry Ingredients

In your large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This crucial step ensures all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout your dough, preventing clumps of spice or uneven rising. The whisking action also incorporates air, which helps create lighter buns.

Step 2: Creating the Dough

Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients. Pour in the warm milk (test the temperature on your wrist – it should feel comfortably warm, not hot), followed by the egg and melted butter. Using a wooden spoon or the paddle attachment of your stand mixer, mix until a shaggy dough begins to form. Then add the raisins and continue mixing until they’re evenly distributed.

If you’re using a stand mixer like you might for our garlic butter steak pasta, switch to the dough hook at this point. The dough should come together into a slightly sticky but manageable ball.

Step 3: Kneading and First Rise

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not overly sticky. If it sticks excessively, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time. For hand kneading, use the heel of your hand to push the dough away, then fold it back over itself, rotating as you go.

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat all sides. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. The top of your refrigerator or near (not on) a warm oven are good spots.

Step 4: Shaping and Second Rise

Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Turn it out onto a clean surface and divide into 12 equal portions (about 85g each if weighing). To shape each bun: flatten a portion slightly, then pull the edges underneath, pinching to create a smooth top. Place shaped buns on a parchment-lined baking tray, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let rise again for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). The buns should look puffy and almost touching when ready to bake.

Creating the Perfect Crosses

While the buns complete their second rise, prepare the cross mixture. Combine the flour and water, adding water gradually until you achieve a thick but pipeable paste (similar to toothpaste consistency). Transfer to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, or use a plastic bag with a corner snipped off.

After the second rise, gently pipe crosses onto each bun. Start from the top center, piping down to the bottom, then repeat horizontally. The crosses will puff slightly during baking but remain visible. For more baking inspiration, check out this alternative hot cross buns recipe using different techniques.

Baking and Glazing Techniques

Bake the buns in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, rotating the tray halfway for even browning. They’re done when golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C) if you want to check with a thermometer.

While the buns bake, prepare the glaze by heating the apricot jam with water until melted and smooth. Strain if needed to remove any fruit pieces. As soon as the buns come out of the oven, brush them generously with the warm glaze. This gives them that professional bakery shine and adds a touch of extra sweetness.

Transfer the glazed buns to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. They’re absolutely divine when still warm from the oven!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These easy hot cross buns are incredibly versatile:

• Classic Style: Split warm buns and spread with good butter – the heat will melt it beautifully
• Breakfast Treat: Serve alongside our favorite breakfast recipes for a special Easter meal
• Dessert Option: Toast lightly and top with whipped cream or ice cream for an easy dessert
• Next-Day Idea: Slice in half and toast, then spread with cream cheese or jam

For creative variations, try:

• Adding 1 tbsp orange zest to the dough
• Substituting chocolate chips for half the raisins
• Using apple cider instead of milk for deeper flavor
• Adding 1/4 cup chopped candied peel

Storage and Freezing Tips

To enjoy your hot cross buns at their best:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Refreshing: Warm day-old buns in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes
• Freezing: Wrap cooled buns individually in plastic, then place in freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months
• Thawing: Defrost at room temperature, then refresh in a warm oven

These storage methods work great for many baked goods, just like our tips for soup storage help maintain freshness.

Why This Recipe Works

Our easy hot cross buns recipe stands out because:

1. Time-Saving: Reduced rising times without sacrificing texture
2. Foolproof: Clear measurements and instructions prevent common mistakes
3. Versatile: Easy to customize with different fruits or spices
4. Consistent Results: Tested repeatedly for reliability
5. Authentic Flavor: Maintains traditional taste with modern techniques

Just like our beef recipes deliver restaurant-quality results at home, this recipe brings bakery-style hot cross buns to your kitchen.

Final Thoughts

This easy hot cross buns recipe is more than just a baking project – it’s a way to create lasting memories and traditions. The warm spices fill your home with an irresistible aroma, while the soft, slightly sweet buns deliver comfort in every bite. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or starting a new one, these quick hot cross buns are sure to become an Easter staple.

For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, explore our complete recipe collection or learn more about our kitchen-tested approach to home cooking.

Happy baking, and may your Easter be filled with delicious moments and shared joy!