Hot cross buns are a classic treat, perfect for holidays or any cozy morning.
Soft, spiced, and slightly sweet, these buns are a delightful addition to breakfast or brunch.
These 15 hot cross bun recipes will inspire you to make traditional and creative versions at home.
From classic cinnamon and fruit buns to chocolate, nut, and gluten-free variations, there’s a recipe for every taste.
Using fresh ingredients and warm spices ensures each bun is flavorful and aromatic.
Hot cross buns are ideal for family gatherings, gifting, or enjoying with tea or coffee.
Discover how easy it is to bake these delicious buns at home.
15 Delicious Hot Cross Bun Recipes for Every Occasion
Hot cross buns are versatile, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
These 15 recipes show that you can enjoy classic buns or try creative new variations.
From traditional spiced buns with raisins to chocolate, nut, or gluten-free versions, there’s something for everyone.
Using fresh ingredients and spices ensures every batch is soft, aromatic, and delicious.
These recipes make baking fun, easy, and satisfying.
Treat your family and friends to warm, homemade hot cross buns.
Make your mornings or holidays extra special with these easy hot cross bun recipes.
Classic Sweet Hot Cross Buns
These Classic Sweet Hot Cross Buns are soft, fluffy, and lightly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg.
Golden brown on the outside and pillowy on the inside, they are dotted with raisins and currants.
The traditional cross on top adds a festive, iconic look, perfect for Easter or holiday breakfasts.
The dough is enriched with butter, milk, and eggs for a tender, flavorful texture.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup raisins or currants
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Mix in eggs, melted butter, and yeast mixture to form a soft dough.
- Knead dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Fold in raisins or currants evenly.
- Cover and let dough rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
- Divide dough into 12 equal pieces and shape into buns.
- Place on a greased baking sheet and allow to rise 30–45 minutes.
- Mix 1/4 cup flour with water to make a paste and pipe crosses on top of buns.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
- Brush with warmed apricot jam for a shiny glaze.
These buns are soft, spiced, and full of fruity sweetness.
They’re perfect for festive breakfasts or afternoon tea.
The cross and glaze create a classic, beautiful presentation.
A traditional, aromatic, and indulgent hot cross bun recipe.
Orange Cranberry Hot Cross Buns
These Orange Cranberry Hot Cross Buns are fragrant, fruity, and lightly spiced.
Fresh orange zest and dried cranberries give a zesty, tangy flavor, perfect for festive occasions.
Soft and pillowy, they are enriched with butter and milk for a tender crumb.
A simple flour paste cross and apricot glaze finish the traditional look and sweet shine.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar.
- Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, orange zest, and cranberries.
- Mix in melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture to form soft dough.
- Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Divide into 12 portions, shape into buns, and place on a baking sheet.
- Allow buns to rise another 30–45 minutes.
- Make flour paste and pipe crosses on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush warm apricot jam over buns for glaze.
These buns are tangy, sweet, and aromatic.
They’re perfect for Easter or winter holiday mornings.
The orange and cranberries add a bright, festive twist.
A soft, spiced, and visually appealing holiday treat.
Chocolate Chip Hot Cross Buns
These Chocolate Chip Hot Cross Buns are a sweet, indulgent twist on the classic recipe.
Soft, fluffy dough is studded with sugar-free or regular chocolate chips for a rich, melty surprise.
Spiced lightly with cinnamon, they are perfect for chocolate lovers during holiday breakfasts.
The flour paste cross and shiny apricot glaze complete the traditional hot cross bun appearance.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar, let foam 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture to form a soft dough.
- Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Fold in chocolate chips evenly.
- Cover and let rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Divide dough into 12 portions, shape into buns, and place on baking sheet.
- Allow to rise 30–45 minutes.
- Mix flour and water to pipe crosses on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush apricot jam over warm buns for shine.
These buns are soft, chocolaty, and lightly spiced.
Perfect for indulgent holiday breakfasts or brunch.
The cross and glaze give them a festive, traditional look.
A sweet, comforting, and visually stunning hot cross bun recipe.
Apple Cinnamon Hot Cross Buns
These Apple Cinnamon Hot Cross Buns are fruity, spiced, and perfect for holiday mornings.
Small apple cubes add natural sweetness, while cinnamon and nutmeg create a warm aroma.
The dough is tender and fluffy, enriched with butter, eggs, and milk.
A simple flour paste cross and apricot glaze finish the traditional festive appearance.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup peeled, diced apple
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar, let sit 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and diced apple.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture; form soft dough.
- Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth.
- Cover and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Divide into 12 portions, shape into buns, and place on a baking sheet.
- Let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Make flour paste and pipe crosses.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush apricot jam for glaze.
These buns are fruity, soft, and aromatic.
Perfect for holiday breakfasts or brunches.
Apples and cinnamon create a comforting, festive flavor.
A tender, spiced, and traditional hot cross bun treat.
Orange Poppy Seed Hot Cross Buns
These Orange Poppy Seed Hot Cross Buns are fragrant, soft, and lightly spiced.
Fresh orange zest and poppy seeds add texture and bright citrus flavor.
The dough is enriched with butter, milk, and eggs for a tender crumb.
A simple flour paste cross and apricot glaze provide a traditional, festive finish.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar, let foam 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, orange zest, and poppy seeds.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture; form soft dough.
- Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Divide into 12 portions, shape into buns, and place on a baking sheet.
- Let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Mix flour and water to pipe crosses on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush apricot jam over buns for shine.
These buns are soft, citrusy, and lightly spiced.
Perfect for holiday breakfasts or festive brunches.
The orange zest and poppy seeds create a bright, cheerful flavor.
A tender, aromatic, and visually appealing hot cross bun recipe
Chocolate Orange Hot Cross Buns
These Chocolate Orange Hot Cross Buns are a festive twist on the classic recipe.
Rich, soft dough is infused with orange zest and dotted with chocolate chunks for a delightful flavor combination.
Lightly spiced with cinnamon, they are perfect for holiday breakfasts or brunch.
A flour paste cross and apricot glaze finish the traditional look and add shine.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cup chocolate chunks
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar and let foam 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, orange zest, and chocolate chunks.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture; form a soft dough.
- Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Divide into 12 portions, shape into buns, and place on a baking sheet.
- Let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Mix flour and water to make a paste and pipe crosses on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
- Brush apricot jam over warm buns for a shiny glaze.
These buns are soft, chocolaty, and citrusy.
Perfect for indulgent holiday breakfasts or festive brunches.
The orange zest and chocolate create a rich, aromatic flavor.
A visually stunning, delicious, and festive hot cross bun treat.
Almond Joy Hot Cross Buns
These Almond Joy Hot Cross Buns are rich, nutty, and indulgent.
Fluffy buns are filled with chopped almonds and shredded unsweetened coconut for a holiday-inspired flavor.
Lightly spiced with cinnamon, they are perfect for special occasions.
A traditional cross and apricot glaze finish the buns for a festive presentation.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar and let foam 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add melted butter, eggs, almonds, coconut, and yeast mixture; form soft dough.
- Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Divide into 12 portions, shape into buns, and place on a baking sheet.
- Let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Make flour paste and pipe crosses on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush apricot jam over buns for shine.
These buns are nutty, coconutty, and soft.
Perfect for holiday breakfasts or festive treats.
The almonds and coconut create a delightful tropical flavor.
A rich, indulgent, and visually appealing hot cross bun recipe.
Lemon Poppy Seed Hot Cross Buns
These Lemon Poppy Seed Hot Cross Buns are bright, zesty, and festive.
Soft buns are infused with fresh lemon zest and poppy seeds for texture and flavor.
Lightly spiced, they are perfect for spring or holiday brunches.
A flour paste cross and apricot glaze complete the traditional appearance.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar and let foam 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, lemon zest, and poppy seeds.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture; form soft dough.
- Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Divide into 12 portions, shape into buns, and place on a baking sheet.
- Let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Mix flour and water to pipe crosses on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush apricot jam over buns for shine.
These buns are soft, citrusy, and lightly spiced.
Perfect for festive breakfasts or springtime celebrations.
The lemon zest and poppy seeds create a refreshing, bright flavor.
A tender, aromatic, and visually stunning hot cross bun recipe.
Maple Walnut Hot Cross Buns
These Maple Walnut Hot Cross Buns are rich, nutty, and subtly sweet.
Soft, fluffy dough is enriched with butter and milk, studded with toasted walnuts.
A hint of maple syrup adds warmth and festive flavor.
A traditional flour paste cross and apricot glaze finish the buns beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar and let foam 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add melted butter, eggs, walnuts, maple syrup, and yeast mixture; form soft dough.
- Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Divide into 12 portions, shape into buns, and place on a baking sheet.
- Let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Make flour paste and pipe crosses on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush apricot jam over buns for shine.
These buns are nutty, sweet, and aromatic.
Perfect for cozy holiday breakfasts or brunches.
The walnuts and maple create a warm, festive flavor.
A soft, indulgent, and visually appealing hot cross bun recipe.
Spiced Pear Hot Cross Buns
These Spiced Pear Hot Cross Buns are fruity, aromatic, and festive.
Diced ripe pears and warm spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg add natural sweetness and aroma.
Soft, tender buns are perfect for holiday breakfasts or tea time.
A flour paste cross and apricot glaze give a traditional, polished appearance.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup peeled, diced pear
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar and let foam 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and diced pear.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture; form soft dough.
- Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Divide into 12 portions, shape into buns, and place on a baking sheet.
- Let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Make flour paste and pipe crosses on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush apricot jam over buns for shine.
These buns are soft, sweet, and spiced.
Perfect for holiday breakfasts or tea time.
The pears and warm spices create a cozy, festive flavor.
A tender, aromatic, and visually delightful hot cross bun recipe
Honey Almond Hot Cross Buns
These Honey Almond Hot Cross Buns are soft, slightly sweet, and nutty.
Honey adds a natural sweetness while chopped almonds provide a delightful crunch.
Lightly spiced with cinnamon, these buns are perfect for holiday breakfasts or brunch.
A traditional flour paste cross and apricot glaze give a classic festive look.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar and let foam 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add melted butter, eggs, honey, and yeast mixture; form soft dough.
- Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Fold in chopped almonds evenly.
- Cover and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Divide into 12 portions, shape into buns, and place on a baking sheet.
- Let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Mix flour and water to pipe crosses on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush apricot jam over buns for shine.
These buns are soft, nutty, and lightly sweet.
Perfect for cozy holiday breakfasts or tea.
The honey and almonds create a warm, festive flavor.
A tender, aromatic, and visually appealing hot cross bun recipe.
Chocolate Cherry Hot Cross Buns
These Chocolate Cherry Hot Cross Buns are rich, fruity, and indulgent.
Dried cherries and chocolate chunks are folded into soft, spiced dough.
Cinnamon adds warmth and depth, making them perfect for festive brunches.
The traditional flour paste cross and apricot glaze give them a beautiful, classic appearance.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
- 1/2 cup chocolate chunks
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar; let foam 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add melted butter, eggs, cherries, chocolate, and yeast mixture; form soft dough.
- Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Divide into 12 portions, shape into buns, and place on a baking sheet.
- Let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Mix flour and water to pipe crosses on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush apricot jam over buns for shine.
These buns are fruity, chocolaty, and spiced.
Perfect for indulgent holiday breakfasts or dessert.
The cherries and chocolate create a rich, festive flavor.
A soft, aromatic, and visually stunning hot cross bun recipe.
Maple Pecan Hot Cross Buns
These Maple Pecan Hot Cross Buns are nutty, sweet, and aromatic.
Soft, fluffy dough is enriched with butter, milk, and eggs, studded with chopped pecans.
Maple syrup adds a warm, festive sweetness.
A flour paste cross and apricot glaze complete the classic hot cross bun presentation.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar; let foam 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add melted butter, eggs, pecans, maple syrup, and yeast mixture; form soft dough.
- Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Divide into 12 portions, shape into buns, and place on a baking sheet.
- Let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Mix flour and water to pipe crosses on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush apricot jam over buns for shine.
These buns are nutty, sweet, and soft.
Perfect for cozy holiday breakfasts or brunch.
Maple and pecans create a warm, festive flavor.
A tender, aromatic, and visually appealing hot cross bun recipe.
Coconut Lime Hot Cross Buns
These Coconut Lime Hot Cross Buns are tropical, fragrant, and soft.
Shredded coconut adds texture and sweetness, while lime zest provides a bright citrus flavor.
Lightly spiced with cinnamon, they are perfect for festive brunch or holiday mornings.
A flour paste cross and apricot glaze complete the classic presentation.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar; let foam 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, coconut, and lime zest.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture; form soft dough.
- Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Divide into 12 portions, shape into buns, and place on a baking sheet.
- Let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Make flour paste and pipe crosses on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush apricot jam over buns for shine.
These buns are soft, tropical, and lightly spiced.
Perfect for holiday breakfasts or festive brunches.
Coconut and lime create a bright, aromatic flavor.
A tender, visually stunning, and flavorful hot cross bun recipe.
Ginger Spice Hot Cross Buns
These Ginger Spice Hot Cross Buns are warm, aromatic, and lightly sweet.
Fresh grated ginger and a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create a cozy holiday flavor.
Soft, pillowy buns are perfect for holiday breakfasts or tea time.
A flour paste cross and apricot glaze finish the traditional festive look.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1-inch fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup flour + water for cross paste
- 1/4 cup apricot jam for glaze
Instructions:
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar; let foam 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and grated ginger.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture; form soft dough.
- Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let dough rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Divide into 12 portions, shape into buns, and place on a baking sheet.
- Let rise 30–45 minutes.
- Mix flour and water to pipe crosses on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush apricot jam over buns for shine.
These buns are warm, spiced, and soft.
Perfect for cozy holiday breakfasts or tea time.
Ginger and spices create a comforting, festive flavor.
A tender, aromatic, and visually delightful hot cross bun recipe.
