Hot Cross Buns with Candied Fruit

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hot Cross Buns with Candied Fruit are soft, spiced buns traditionally enjoyed during Easter, but they’re perfect year-round for breakfast or a snack. Infused with warm spices and studded with colorful candied fruit, these buns are topped with a signature cross and a shiny glaze that adds a touch of sweetness. Their tender texture and fragrant aroma make them an irresistible treat.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flouractive dry yeastsugarwarm milkbuttereggsaltground cinnamonground nutmegcandied mixed fruit (such as citrus peel and cherries)raisins or currants (optional)all-purpose flour and water (for the cross)apricot jam or honey (for the glaze)

directions

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and beaten egg. Mix until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

Fold in the candied fruit and raisins or currants (if using), kneading gently to incorporate.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-1.5 hours.

Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Shape each into a bun and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each.

Cover and let rise again for about 30-45 minutes, until puffy.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Mix flour and water to create a thick paste. Pipe a cross on each bun using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped.

Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown.

Warm the apricot jam or honey and brush over the buns immediately after baking for a glossy finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 buns.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 2-2.5 hours
Baking time: 18-22 minutes
Total time: 3 hours

Variations

Add orange zest to the dough for a citrusy lift.
Use dried cranberries or chopped dates instead of raisins.
Spice it up with a pinch of ground cloves or allspice.
Top with a simple icing cross instead of the flour paste for a sweeter touch.

storage/reheating

Store buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat before serving.

FAQs

What makes the cross on Hot Cross Buns?
A flour and water paste is piped on before baking, or icing can be added afterward.

Can I make these without candied fruit?
Yes, you can use just raisins or leave out dried fruit entirely.

Why didn’t my buns rise properly?
Make sure your yeast is fresh and your milk is warm, not hot.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?
Yes, let it rise in the fridge overnight, then shape and rise again before baking.

Are Hot Cross Buns sweet or savory?
They are lightly sweet with a warm spice flavor, perfect with butter or jam.

Can I use instant yeast?
Yes, just mix it directly with the dry ingredients and proceed.

Can I make them vegan?
Substitute non-dairy milk, plant-based butter, and an egg replacer.

Why are they eaten at Easter?
They are a Christian tradition symbolizing the crucifixion with the cross and spices used in embalming.

How do I keep them soft?
Store in a sealed container and avoid overbaking.

Can I use a stand mixer?
Yes, use the dough hook for kneading to save time and effort.

Conclusion

Hot Cross Buns with Candied Fruit offer a festive, comforting bake that brings warmth and joy to any table. With their tender crumb, sweet fruit, and iconic cross, they’re both a traditional and timeless treat. Perfect for Easter or anytime you crave something soft and spiced, these buns are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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