Nothing says Easter quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked Hot Cross Buns. These lightly spiced, fruit-filled buns with a signature cross on top are a loved Easter tradition in many households. Whether you’re making them for Easter breakfast or as an afternoon treat, this Traditional Easter Hot Cross Buns Recipe ensures soft, fluffy, and flavorful buns that taste even better than store-bought!
What Are Hot Cross Buns?
Hot Cross Buns are spiced sweet buns, traditionally made with dried fruit and marked with a cross on top. They are commonly eaten on Good Friday and during the Easter season as a symbol of tradition and celebration.
The History Behind Hot Cross Buns
Hot Cross Buns have been around for centuries, dating back to the 12th century. Legend has it that an English monk baked these buns on Good Friday and marked them with a cross to symbolize the crucifixion of Jesus. Over time, they became a staple Easter treat, filled with spices representing the burial spices used on Christ’s body. 
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and fluffy texture
- Perfectly spiced with warm flavors
- Easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions
- Customizable with different fillings
- A nostalgic treat with a rich history
Ingredients Needed For Traditional Easter Hot Cross Buns
For the Buns
- 3 teaspoons instant yeast (9g)
- ½ cup (110g) caster sugar
- 1½ cups (375ml) warm milk (full-fat or low-fat)
- 4¼ cups (640g) bread flour or all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon powder
- 2 teaspoons allspice or mixed spice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups (210g) sultanas
- Zest of 1–2 oranges
- 50g (3.5 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 egg (room temperature)
- ¼ cup (35g) extra bread flour for dusting
Creating the Crosses
- ½ cup (75g) white flour
- 5 tbsp water
Making the Glaze
- 1 tbsp apricot jam
- 2 tsp water
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stand mixer (optional but helpful)
- Baking sheet
- Piping bag or plastic ziplock bag
- Pastry brush
Step-By-Step Instructions For Traditional Easter Hot Cross Buns
Preparing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and caster sugar. Stir well and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active. If there’s no foam, your yeast may be expired or the milk might have been too hot/cold.
- Add the flour, cinnamon, allspice, salt, sultanas, and orange zest to the yeast mixture. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon or a dough hook if using a stand mixer.
- Pour in the melted butter and add the egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. It should look rough and slightly sticky.
Kneading and First Rise
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should become softer and slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too dry, add a little more milk; if too wet, sprinkle in some flour.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. It should feel airy and light when poked gently.
Shaping the Buns and Second Rise
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Divide it into 12 equal portions (use a scale for uniformity).
- Shape each portion into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath and rolling gently on a floured surface.
- Arrange the dough balls on a lined baking sheet with slight gaps between them. Cover and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes, until puffy and touching slightly.
Making the Crosses
- In a small bowl, mix the flour and water into a thick paste.
- Transfer to a piping bag or ziplock bag with the tip cut off. Pipe crosses over the buns, ensuring even lines.
Baking the Buns
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
Glazing for Shine
- While still warm, mix the apricot jam and water, then brush over the buns to create a shiny, sticky glaze. Then leave them to set!
Tips for the Best Hot Cross Buns
- Use fresh yeast for the best rise.
- Knead the dough thoroughly for a soft texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area.
- For extra softness, add an extra egg yolk.
- Swap sultanas with cranberries, raisins, or chocolate chips.
Homemade Hot Cross Buns are a yummy Easter tradition that fills your kitchen with warmth and spice.
