Name: Traditional Hot Cross Buns
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 cup raisins or currants; 1/4 cup chopped candied peel; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 2 eggs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 5 tablespoons water; 1/4 cup apricot jam; 1 tablespoon water

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Combine two cups of flour, along with sugar, salt, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, ginger, and either raisins or currants, as well as candied peel in a sizable mixing bowl.
Meanwhile, gently heat milk and butter in a small saucepan until the butter melts; allow the mixture to cool until it reaches a warm, but not hot, temperature.
Once cooled, incorporate the warm milk mixture and eggs into the dry ingredients, stirring thoroughly until fully integrated.
Gradually add the remaining two cups of flour, continuing to mix until a soft dough consistency is achieved.
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for approximately 8 to 10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Position the dough in a greased bowl, ensuring to turn it over once to coat the top with grease.
Proceed to cover the bowl with a fresh, clean kitchen towel, and allow it to undergo rising in a warm environment until it doubles in size, which typically takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 3: Shape the Buns

After deflating the dough by punching it down, proceed to partition it into 12 uniform segments.
Form each segment into a smooth ball shape and arrange them on a baking sheet that has been lightly greased, ensuring there is ample space between each bun.
Cover the buns with a kitchen towel and allow them to undergo a second rising phase for approximately 30 to 45 minutes, or until they double in size.

Step 4: Add the Cross and Bake

Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, combine flour and water in a small bowl, blending them until they form a dense paste.
Transfer this paste into a piping bag or a small plastic bag with a corner snipped off. Proceed to pipe a cross shape onto the top of each bun.
Place the buns into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 18 to 20 minutes, or until they achieve a golden brown hue.
Once baked to perfection, remove the buns from the oven and transfer them onto a wire rack to cool down.

Step 5: Glaze the Buns

Utilize a small saucepan to gently heat the apricot jam and water over a low flame until they meld into a smooth, liquefied consistency.
Once the glaze is warm and smooth, delicately brush it over the tops of the buns to impart a glossy finish.

Traditional Hot Cross Buns

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Equipment

Notes