In this recipe, you will know the essential hot cross bun spices and learn an easy hot cross bun recipe and be able to make your own batch at home.
In many countries, Easter celebrations are inextricably linked with the delicious dessert known as hot cross buns. In addition to being tasty, these sweet, spicy buns with a cross on top have a long history.
What makes hot cross buns unique is the blend of spices that gives them their unique flavor and scent.
Ingredients
500g strong white bread flour
75g caster sugar
10g salt
10g mixed spice powder (or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves)
10g instant yeast
300ml whole milk (warm)
40g unsalted butter (melted)
1 large egg
200g mixed dried fruit (currants, raisins, sultanas)
Zest of one orange
Zest of one lemon
For the cross: 75g plain flour and water
For glazing: 75g apricot jam or honey mixed with water
Hot Cross Bun Recipe
In a large mixing bowl, combine the quick yeast, salt, caster sugar, strong white bread flour, and mixed spice powder. To adequately activate the yeast, make sure the salt is kept apart from the yeast at first.
In a separate bowl or jug, thoroughly mix the egg, melted butter, and warm milk (not too hot or it may kill the yeast). Using a wooden spoon or your hands, whisk the dry ingredients as you gradually pour this mixture into them until a dough starts to form.
After combining, add the citrus zests and the mixed dry fruit. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for approximately 10 minutes, or until it is elastic and smooth. Because of this process, the flour forms gluten, which provides your buns structure.
After kneading the dough, transfer it to a bowl that has been lightly oiled and cover it with plastic wrap or a moist cloth. In a warm location, let it rise until it doubles in size, which should take approximately an hour. If your kitchen is cool, you can make it warm by setting the bowl in an oven on low heat (just warm enough) or next to a radiator.
To get rid of any air bubbles that might have developed during fermentation, gently punch down the dough after it has risen. In order to produce tension on top, divide it into equal sections (about 12) and form each portion into a spherical bun by folding the edges beneath themselves.
These shaped buns will expand when they rise again during baking, so place them on a prepared baking tray close together but not touching. For another half hour, or when they have risen properly, cover them once more with a moist cloth.
As you wait for your buns to rise again, make the cross mixture by combining plain flour and enough water to make a thick paste that is about the consistency of toothpaste. Before baking, pipe crosses into each bun using a zip-lock bag with one corner cut off, or transfer this paste into a piping bag.
Set the oven’s temperature to 220°C (428°F). After the buns have risen enough and the crosses have been piped on with steady hands for accuracy, bake them in a preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bottoms sound hollow when tapped.
Make the glaze while your hot cross buns are baking by slowly heating apricot jam or honey with water until it turns syrupy. This will give your baked goods a beautiful sheen.
When your buns are done, take them out of the oven and brush them with your glaze while they’re still warm to give them that lovely sheen that makes them look so inviting.
If you can resist, let them cool a little before serving! Although they taste best just out of the oven, you may toast these buns afterwards for an added delight.
See also: Recipes with sponge cake
Hot Cross Bun Spices
Cinnamon
Perhaps the most noticeable spice in hot cross buns is cinnamon. The richness of the dried fruits usually added and the sweetness of the dough are complemented by its warm, sweet flavor. Additionally, the aroma of cinnamon fills your home while it bakes, bringing back memories and a sense of coziness. This spice is also well-known for its health advantages; it can help control blood sugar levels and has anti-inflammatory qualities.
Nutmeg
The flavor characteristic of hot cross buns is subtly enhanced by nutmeg. Its slightly nutty and sweet flavor complements cinnamon well, adding to the overall spice without overpowering it. To have a balanced flavor, use it carefully because a little goes a long way. Nutmeg has traditionally been used to help digestion and is also well-known for its relaxing effects.
“Allspice”
Hot cross bun spices also include allspice, a crucial ingredient. It gives a distinct blend of flavors that are evocative of nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves in a single spice. The buns’ richness and fragrant attributes are enhanced by this complexity. Allspice adds warmth to a variety of recipes, not simply hot cross buns, and is frequently linked to Christmas baking.
Cloves
Hot cross buns are made with cloves, which give them a deep, intense warmth. Measurement is crucial because their potent flavor might overpower if used in excess. The spicy scent of these buns is enhanced by cloves. Cloves are also well-known for their therapeutic characteristics; traditional medicine has utilized them for their antibacterial properties and toothache-relieving capabilities.
Ginger Ginger’s spiciness balances the sweetness of hot cross buns and gives them a zesty boost. While ground ginger provides convenience without compromising flavor, fresh ginger can be utilized for a stronger flavor. Ginger is prized for its taste as well as its health advantages; it helps with digestion and lessens nausea.
Dried Fruits, Mixed
Mixed dried fruits, though not quite spices, are crucial to giving hot cross buns their distinctive flavor. Sultanas, raisins, and currants are popular options. These fruits wonderfully balance the spices with their inherent sweetness and chewiness. Additionally, the use of dried fruits dates back to earlier times when fresh fruit was not always accessible.
Conclusion
More than just a seasonal treat, hot cross bun recipe are a delicious fusion of tradition, history, and taste that adds coziness to any gathering. These buns are transformed from ordinary bread into a treasured treat by the harmonious balance of the carefully chosen hot cross bun spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and ginger. Hot cross buns provide a varied and cozy experience whether they are eaten warm from the oven, toasted with butter, or made into French toast.
