Hot Cross Buns – Sweet, Spiced, and Perfect for Easter Traditions

Soft, lightly spiced, and studded with sweet fruits — these homemade Hot Cross Buns are a warm and comforting tradition loved around the world. There’s something so timeless and welcoming about baking a batch, filling your kitchen with the cozy scents of cinnamon and nutmeg.

With their tender crumb, signature cross on top, and delicate blend of spices, they bring the cozy flavor of springtime festivals and family gatherings right into your kitchen. If you love classic, nostalgic bakes, you might also enjoy our Gingerbread Men, another treat rich with tradition and charm.

Perfect fresh from the oven or gently toasted the next morning, these Hot Cross Buns are simple to make and unforgettable to share. And if you’re planning a festive table, our Easter Cookies make a delightful, colorful companion to these spiced buns.

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Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (including rising)
Servings: 12 buns
Difficulty: Moderate

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3½ cups all-purpose flour (440g)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (50g)
• 1 packet active dry yeast (7g)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¾ cup warm milk (180ml)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (57g)
• 1 large egg
• ⅔ cup raisins or currants (100g)
• 1 teaspoon grated orange zest (optional)

For the Crosses:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour (60g)
• 6 tablespoons water (90ml)

For the Glaze:

• ¼ cup sugar (50g)
• ¼ cup water (60ml)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar.
   Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add melted butter, egg, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and 2 cups of flour.
   Mix well.
   Gradually add the remaining flour to form a soft dough.
3. Knead for about 5–7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
   Mix in the raisins and orange zest if using.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces.
   Shape into balls and place them into a greased 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking pan.
6. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes until puffy.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Mix flour and water to make a thick paste.
   Pipe a cross over each bun using a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped.
8. Bake buns for 18–20 minutes until golden brown.
9. While baking, prepare the glaze by simmering sugar and water until slightly thickened.
10. Brush the warm buns generously with glaze after baking.

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Notes

Don’t skip the second rise — it makes the buns extra fluffy.
Use fresh yeast for the best rise and texture.
Brushing with glaze gives them a shiny, tempting finish.

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Variations & Add-ons

Add chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or sultanas instead of raisins.
Use cardamom for a slightly different spice profile.
Swap the sugar glaze for a simple apricot jam glaze for a richer shine.

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Nutrition Information (Per Bun)

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 14g

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Background Story

Hot Cross Buns have deep historical roots tracing back to medieval England, where spiced sweet breads marked religious occasions.

The cross atop each bun symbolized the crucifixion, while the spices inside represented the exotic flavors brought from ancient trade routes.

Traditionally baked on Good Friday to mark the end of Lent, Hot Cross Buns eventually became a year-round favorite thanks to their rich, comforting flavor.

From England to Australia to the Americas, these little buns have become a cherished sign of spring and renewal, celebrated across cultures and continents.

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Serving Suggestions

Enjoy Hot Cross Buns warm from the oven, split open with a little butter melting into the crumb.

They are wonderful served with tea or coffee, or lightly toasted for an even cozier texture.

Leftovers can be turned into a luxurious bread pudding if you’re feeling creative!

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FAQs About Hot Cross Buns

Can I make Hot Cross Buns ahead of time?
Yes!
Shape the buns, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh in the morning.

What’s the best way to store leftover buns?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Can I skip the glaze?
You can, but the glaze adds shine and an extra hint of sweetness that’s really worth it.

What can I use if I don’t have raisins?
Swap in chopped dried cranberries, apricots, or even chocolate chips for a twist!

Can I make a smaller batch?
Absolutely — simply halve the recipe for 6 buns instead of 12.

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Final Thoughts

Sweet, soft, and lightly spiced, these homemade Hot Cross Buns are a timeless celebration of flavor, tradition, and simple joy.

Baking them at home brings a little extra magic to any table.