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Hot Cross Buns with Candied Fruit

Indulge in the warm, spiced sweetness of these delightful Hot Cross Buns, adorned with candied fruit for a burst of flavor and nostalgia.
Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 12 buns
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, British
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon allspice
  • ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup candied fruit (candied orange peel, cherries, lemon peel)
Cross Paste
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 5 tablespoons water
Glazing
  • ¼ cup apricot jam or honey (for glazing)
  • 1 tablespoon water (for glazing)

Method
 

Activation
  1. Combine the warm milk and sugar in a bowl, sprinkle in the yeast, and let it sit for about five minutes until it forms a creamy, foamy top.
Dough Preparation
  1. Combine the flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Create a well in the center, then pour in the activated yeast mixture, followed by the melted butter and eggs.
  3. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then turn it out onto a floured surface.
Kneading and Proofing
  1. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
  2. Place it in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Shaping Buns
  1. Once risen, punch the dough down and turn it onto a floured surface.
  2. Incorporate the candied fruit and divide the dough into equal portions.
  3. Shape each piece into a tight ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cross Paste
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the ½ cup flour and 5 tablespoons of water until it forms a thick paste.
  2. Transfer this mixture into a piping bag or a plastic bag with the tip cut off, then pipe a cross over each bun.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let the buns rise for an additional 30-40 minutes.
  2. Once risen, bake them for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown.
Glazing
  1. While the buns are baking, combine the apricot jam or honey with 1 tablespoon of water over low heat until melted.
  2. Once the buns have baked, brush the glaze generously over the top while they are still warm.

Notes

These buns are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. Consider using low-sugar, dairy-free, or whole wheat alternatives for healthier options.