Traditional Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Cover Easy Easter Hot Cross Buns Recipe (1200x1800)

Table of Contents

1. What are Hot Cross Buns?
2. History of Hot Cross Buns
3. Ingredients for Hot Cross Buns
4. Making Hot Cross Buns
5. Serving Hot Cross Buns

What are Hot Cross Buns?

Hot Cross Buns are a type of sweet bread that is typically eaten on Good Friday. They are made with a spiced dough that is studded with dried fruit, such as raisins and currants, and marked with a cross on the top. Traditionally, the cross is made from a mixture of flour and water, although some recipes use icing or a pastry topping.

Why are they called Hot Cross Buns?

The name "Hot Cross Buns" comes from the cross that is marked on the top of the bun. This cross is said to represent the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and the buns are traditionally eaten on Good Friday to commemorate his death.

What is the significance of eating Hot Cross Buns?

Hot Cross Buns have a long history of religious significance. They were originally made by monks in the Middle Ages, who would distribute them to the poor on Good Friday. The buns were said to have healing properties, and were believed to protect against illness and bad luck.

History of Hot Cross Buns

The history of Hot Cross Buns can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when they were first made by monks in England. The buns were originally made with a simple dough of flour, water, and yeast, and were flavored with spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. Over time, the recipe evolved to include dried fruit, such as currants and raisins. In the 16th century, Queen Elizabeth I passed a law restricting the sale of Hot Cross Buns to certain holidays, such as Good Friday, Christmas, and burials. This law was intended to protect bakers from competition, but it only served to increase the popularity of the buns. In the 18th century, the first printed recipe for Hot Cross Buns appeared in a cookbook by Hannah Glasse. This recipe included the traditional cross on top of the buns, and marked the beginning of the modern version of the recipe. Today, Hot Cross Buns are enjoyed around the world as a traditional Easter treat.

Ingredients for Hot Cross Buns

To make Hot Cross Buns, you will need:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup milk, warmed
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup currants
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup water

Making Hot Cross Buns

To make Hot Cross Buns, follow these steps:

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, butter, milk, yeast, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Stir until a dough forms.
2. Add raisins and currants to the dough and knead until they are evenly distributed throughout.
3. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
5. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Place the balls on a greased baking sheet and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, flour, and water to make a paste. Spoon the paste into a piping bag and pipe crosses onto the top of each bun.
7. Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

Serving Hot Cross Buns

Hot Cross Buns are best served warm, straight out of the oven. They can be enjoyed plain, or with a dollop of butter or jam. Some people also like to serve them toasted with a drizzle of honey. Hot Cross Buns are traditionally eaten on Good Friday, but they can be enjoyed any time during the Easter season. They also make a great addition to a brunch or afternoon tea.

Conclusion

Hot Cross Buns have a rich history and religious significance that has made them a beloved Easter tradition around the world. Making your own batch of these delicious treats is a fun and rewarding way to celebrate the season. Whether you enjoy them plain or toasted with butter and jam, Hot Cross Buns are sure to bring joy and comfort to your Easter celebrations.