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Hot Cross Buns

Ingredients
  

  • 2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
  • 2 cups warm whole milk (110° to 115°)
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1/3 cup butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 6 to 7 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup dried currants
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons water

For Icing

  • 1-1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
  • 4 to 6 teaspoons whole milk

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk to make a yeast mixture.
  • In a large bowl, combine eggs, butter, sugar, salt, spices, yeast mixture and 3 cups flour; beat on medium speed until smooth.
  • Stir in currants, raisins and enough remaining flour to form a soft, sticky dough.
  • On a floured surface, knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic (about 6-8 minutes). Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled for about 1 hour.
  • Punch down the dough. On a lightly floured surface, divide and shape the dough into 30 balls. Place 2 inches apart on greased baking sheets. Cover with kitchen towels; let rise in a warm place until doubled for about 30-45 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375°.
  • Using a knife, carefully cut a cross on top of each bun.
  • In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk and water together and brush over the tops of the buns. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool slightly.
  • For icing, in a small bowl, combine confectioners' sugar and enough milk to reach desired consistency. Pipe a cross on top of each bun. Serve warm.