Golden, spiced, and delicately sweet, these Traditional Hot Cross Buns are a beloved Easter treat. Made with warm cinnamon, allspice, and tender dried fruit, these soft and fluffy buns are marked with the signature cross and finished with a light, glossy glaze. Whether served fresh from the oven or toasted with butter, they are a timeless addition to any Easter table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Soft & Fluffy Texture – The enriched dough creates a light, pillowy bun with a perfect chew.
Warm Spices & Sweet Fruit – Cinnamon, allspice, and currants or raisins add depth of flavor.
Classic Easter Tradition – A staple for Good Friday and Easter celebrations.
Perfectly Balanced Sweetness – Just the right amount of sugar for a delightful treat.
Total Time & Servings
Prep Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including rise time)
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 12 buns
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup (236 ml) warm milk (100–110°F)
- 2 teaspoons instant dried yeast
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 cups + 2 tablespoons (525 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup (150 g) dried currants or raisins
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, beaten, at room temperature
For the Cross:
- ⅓ cup (46 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3–4 tablespoons water (adjust for a thick paste)
For the Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1–2 teaspoons hot water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, cinnamon, allspice, ginger, and dried fruit. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
Step 2: Knead & Rise
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Buns
Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal portions. Roll into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for another 30–40 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Cross & Bake
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix the flour, sugar, and water to form a thick paste. Transfer to a piping bag and pipe a cross over each bun. Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
Step 5: Glaze & Serve
Mix powdered sugar with hot water to create a light glaze. Brush over the warm buns for a glossy finish.
Expert Tips for the Best Hot Cross Buns
Use Fresh Yeast – Ensure your yeast is active for a good rise.
Don’t Overwork the Dough – Knead just until smooth to keep the buns soft.
Proper Rise Time – Let the dough double in size for the best texture.
Pair It With
Butter & Honey – Serve warm with butter and a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence.
Easter Brunch Spread – Pair with quiche, smoked salmon, or fresh fruit for a festive meal.
Herbal Tea – A cup of chamomile or English Breakfast tea complements the spiced flavors beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
Final Thoughts
These Traditional Hot Cross Buns bring warmth, spice, and sweetness to any Easter gathering. With their soft texture and lightly glazed finish, they are a true seasonal favorite. Whether enjoyed fresh, toasted, or alongside a spring brunch, they are the perfect way to celebrate the season.
