Indulge in the timeless tradition of Easter baking with our delightful Hot Cross Buns recipe. These soft, spiced buns adorned with their signature cross are a symbol of the season, inviting warmth and comfort into your home. Infused with fragrant spices, plump dried fruit, and a hint of citrus zest, each bite is a celebration of the holiday's spirit. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or shared among loved ones at the Easter table, these homemade buns are sure to bring joy and a sense of tradition to your festivities.

Join us in embracing the essence of Easter with this irresistible recipe.

Ingredients:

Cross:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 4-5 tablespoons water

Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

• 1 1/4 cups warm milk

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 large egg

• 1/2 cup dried currants or raisins

• Zest of 1 orange

Method:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and yeast.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and egg.

3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

6. Punch down the risen dough and knead in the dried currants or raisins and orange zest.

7. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball. Place the balls on a greased baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

8. Cover the baking sheet with a kitchen towel and let the buns rise for another 30-45 minutes.

9. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

10. In a small bowl, mix together the flour and water to form a thick paste for the crosses. Transfer the paste into a piping bag or a plastic bag with a corner snipped off.

11. Pipe crosses onto the risen buns.

12. Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.

13. While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze by heating the water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved. Brush the glaze over the warm buns as soon as they come out of the oven.

14. Let the buns cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade Hot Cross Buns as a delicious Easter treat!

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding additional spices, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips to make it your own. Happy Easter baking!

*Recipe written with assistance from ChatGPT