Delicious Easter Hot Cross Buns

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Delicious Easter Hot Cross Buns.

1. Step 1

   Start by combining 1/4 cup of lukewarm milk, the yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar in a small bowl. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, which means the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

2. Step 2

   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of white sugar, salt, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and nutmeg. This blend of dry ingredients will create a flavorful base for your buns.

3. Step 3

   Once your dry ingredients are well mixed, stir in the yeast mixture, 1/2 cup of lukewarm milk, softened butter, and the eggs. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything until it's well incorporated. Finally, fold in the chopped golden raisins and orange marmalade. The dough will be sticky, but that's just how we want it!

4. Step 4

   Lightly sprinkle some of the remaining flour onto your work surface. Turn the sticky dough out onto this surface and knead it for about 10 minutes, adding more flour as needed until the dough is tacky but not sticking to your fingers. Once kneaded, form the dough into a ball.

5. Step 5

   Place the dough ball in a large, lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, which should take about 2 hours.

6. Step 6

   After the dough has risen, gently deflate it and divide it into 16 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round bun and place them on a lightly greased baking sheet, leaving about 1.5 inches of space between each bun. Cover them with a light cloth and let them rise again until doubled in size, about 40 minutes.

7. Step 7

   While the buns are rising, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

8. Step 8

   In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white and 1 tablespoon of milk. Use a sharp knife to score a deep cross on the top of each bun, then brush them with the egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.

9. Step 9

   Bake the buns in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes, or until they are lightly browned. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack for about 15 minutes.

10. Step 10

    For the finishing touch, mix confectioners' sugar with 1 1/2 teaspoons of milk in a plastic sandwich bag. Knead the bag until the mixture is combined, then snip off one corner of the bag and pipe a cross into the scored lines on each bun. Enjoy your delicious Easter Hot Cross Buns!