Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 buns
As the days grow longer and spring begins to bloom, it’s the perfect time to indulge in seasonal baking. One delightful treat that embodies the spirit of spring is Hot Cross Buns. These sweet, spiced buns topped with an orange glaze not only offer fantastic flavors but also bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia. What’s more, you can whip them up in just 40 minutes!
What Is Spring Baking: Hot Cross Buns With Orange Glaze in 40 Minutes?
Hot Cross Buns are a traditional spiced sweet bun, typically enjoyed around Easter. They are characterized by their unique cross on top—a symbol of the crucifixion in Christian tradition. This modern twist includes a delightful orange glaze that adds a bright, zesty flavor, making these buns a perfect match for any spring gathering. Combining warm spices and citrus, these buns are soft, fluffy, and simply irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This
There are countless reasons to adore these Hot Cross Buns with Orange Glaze. First, the recipe is quick and easy, making it ideal for busy parents and kitchen beginners. Additionally, they are versatile enough to satisfy various preferences. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or as a delightful addition to a brunch spread, these buns are sure to please. Plus, their vibrant aroma and appealing glaze will make your kitchen feel like a springtime oasis.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Flour: 4 cups – The essential base of the buns, providing structure and a delightful chewiness.
- Milk: 1 cup – Adds moisture and richness; warm it slightly before using.
- Yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast – This helps the buns rise and become fluffy.
- Sugar: ½ cup – Sweetens the buns and helps with caramelization when baking.
- Butter: ¼ cup unsalted, melted – Adds softness and flavor to the dough.
- Egg: 1 large – Provides richness and binds the ingredients together.
- Spices: 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon and nutmeg – Offers an aromatic warmth that’s essential for Hot Cross Buns.
- Raisins: 1 cup – Adds sweetness and texture; feel free to substitute with currants or dried cranberries.
- Orange zest: 2 teaspoons – Citrus zest brightens the flavor profile significantly.
- Flour (for icing): ½ cup – Used to make the cross on top of the buns.
- Powdered sugar: ½ cup – Sweetens the glaze, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- Orange juice: 2 tablespoons – Adds a zesty flavor to the glaze.
How to Make
- Start by warming the milk in a saucepan until it is lukewarm, then sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to help your buns rise.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, along with the melted butter and egg. Using a wooden spoon, mix until a dough starts to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. Kneading is crucial as it develops gluten, giving the buns their soft texture.
- Once kneaded, fold in the raisins and orange zest, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for around 15-20 minutes or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). After the dough has risen, punch it down to release excess air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a round bun. Place the buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are close together but not touching.
- While the buns are rising again for about 10 minutes, prepare the cross by mixing the additional flour with enough water to create a thick paste. Use a piping bag or a zip-lock bag with a corner snipped off to pipe crosses on top of each bun.
- Bake the buns in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Their divine aroma will fill your kitchen! A quick tip: tapping the bottom of a bun should produce a hollow sound if they are ready.
- While the buns are baking, make the orange glaze by mixing powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Once the buns are out of the oven, brush the glaze generously over them while they are still warm. This keeps the glaze shiny and helps it stick.
Variations & Substitutions
Chocolate Chip Hot Cross Buns: Substitute half of the raisins with chocolate chips for a sweet twist. The melty chocolate will contrast perfectly with the spices, offering a delightful flavor explosion in every bite.
Gluten-Free Option: To make these buns gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure your yeast is gluten-free as well. While the texture may differ slightly, the taste will remain exceptional.
Vegan Hot Cross Buns: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, allowed to sit for several minutes). Replace milk with almond or oat milk, and use a vegan butter alternative. This tasty swap allows everyone to enjoy these delightful buns.
Fruit & Nut Hot Cross Buns: Add chopped dried apricots and walnuts for a unique twist. This variation adds a delightful crunch and fruity fragrance that brightens the bun profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Hot Cross Buns turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:
Not Proofing the Yeast: If your yeast doesn’t activate, your buns won’t rise. Always check if your yeast is fresh and ensure the milk isn’t too hot, as that can kill the yeast.
Over-Kneading or Under-Kneading the Dough: Kneading is essential for proper texture. Over-kneading can lead to tough buns, while under-kneading can cause the dough to be too dense. Aim for a smooth and elastic dough.
Skipping the Glaze: The orange glaze adds flavor and a shiny finish. Skipping this step will lead to less flavorful buns. Brushing while warm helps the glaze soak into the buns.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Store leftover Hot Cross Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresher for longer, they can also be refrigerated, but this may alter the texture slightly. For extended storage, these buns freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a zip-lock freezer bag for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and warm them in the oven or microwave. For best results, wrap in foil and warm them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their fluffy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of dried fruit? Absolutely! While raisins are traditional, feel free to replace them with currants, dried cranberries, or chopped dates. Each fruit will lend its unique sweetness and texture, enhancing the overall flavor of the buns.
How can I make these buns spicier? For those who enjoy an extra kick, consider adding a dash of ground ginger or allspice to the dough. Both spices complement the other flavors beautifully, providing a more robust profile.
Is it necessary to use fresh yeast for these buns? While active dry yeast works best for this recipe, you can use instant yeast if that’s what you have on hand. The process remains similar, but you may not need to activate instant yeast beforehand; simply mix it with the dry ingredients.
Can I prepare the dough the night before? Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember that it may take longer to rise in the morning due to the cooler temperature. Allow it to warm up for about 20 minutes before proceeding.
Why are my buns dense? If your buns turned out dense, it could be due to a few factors, such as not kneading the dough enough or not allowing it to rise sufficiently. Ensure you follow the steps carefully, paying attention to texture cues.
Conclusion: Spring Baking: Hot Cross Buns with Orange Glaze in 40 Minutes is not only quick and easy but also provides an irresistible treat that brings warmth and joy to the kitchen. Whether for a family breakfast or a get-together with friends, these delightful buns are sure to be a hit. Let’s celebrate spring together, one delicious bite at a time!
