What does a traditional hot cross bun contain?

A hot cross bun is a spiced sweet bun that is traditionally eaten on Good Friday, but it can be found and enjoyed throughout the year in many countries. It is typically made with a mixture of flour, sugar, spices, raisins or currants, and sometimes candied fruit. The dough is often marked with a cross on top, either with a knife or with strips of dough, and is then baked until golden brown.

The cross is said to symbolize the crucifixion of Jesus, and the spices in the bun are said to represent the spices used to embalm his body. Hot cross buns are often served toasted with butter, and some people enjoy them with jam or honey.

Video recipes Hot Cross Bun

Hot Cross Bun Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 cup raisins or currants
• 1/2 cup candied orange peel
• 1 1/2 cups warm milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 egg yolk, beaten
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, salt, yeast, and spices. Stir in the raisins or currants and candied orange peel.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, until doubled in size.
4. Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place on a greased baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each ball. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise for another 30 minutes.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the egg wash over the risen buns.
6. Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and fragrant.
7. While the buns are baking, make the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. When the buns are finished baking, let cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before drizzling the icing over the top in the shape of a cross.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Note: If you don't have candied orange peel, you can substitute with grated orange zest.