Get ready to transform your kitchen into a bakery of dreams with these irresistible Hot Cross Buns that will make your taste buds dance with joy! Imagine biting into a soft, pillowy bun bursting with warm spices, sweet raisins, and topped with a luxurious cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. These aren't just any ordinary buns - they're a culinary experience that bridges traditional Easter treats with modern dessert indulgence. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to elevate your home baking game and impress everyone at your table.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup raisins or currants
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk together to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
- In a small saucepan, warm the milk and butter together until the butter is melted and the mixture is lukewarm (around 110°F). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the warm milk mixture and eggs. Mix with a wooden spoon or stand mixer until a soft, sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook for about 6-7 minutes.
- Fold in the raisins or currants, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round bun and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each bun.
- Cover the buns and let rise again for 30-40 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) during the second rising period.
- Optional: Create a cross pattern on top of the buns using a mixture of flour and water, piping it carefully across each bun.
- Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- While baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Remove buns from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes.
- Once cooled, pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting over the buns, creating a decorative cross or covering the entire top.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your milk is lukewarm (around 110°F) to activate the yeast without killing it. Use a kitchen thermometer for precision.
- Knead with Patience: Don't rush the kneading process. Proper kneading develops gluten, giving your buns that perfect soft and elastic texture.
- Rising Environment Matters: Find a warm, draft-free spot for your dough to rise. A slightly warmed oven (turned off) or near a sunny window works perfectly.
- Raisin Tip: Soak your raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding to the dough to prevent them from burning during baking.
- Frosting Hack: For a smoother cream cheese frosting, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise slowly in the refrigerator, and bake fresh in the morning for maximum convenience.
- Cross Decoration: For a perfect cross, use a piping bag or a zip-lock bag with a corner snipped off for precise application.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 55mg
