Hot Cross Buns – Updated Version

May 08, 2023May 8, 20230 15
Hot Cross Buns with Dried Fruit and Spices
in Bread

Prep

25 min

Cook

25 min

Ready In

3 hours

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

4 1/2 teaspoons yeast
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup milk
3/4 cup mashed potatoes ( can also use 3/4 cup boiling water with 1/4 cup dehydrated riced potatoes )
1/2 cup sugar
5 cups all-purpose flour , divided
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1/2 cup butter
2 eggs
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon clove
1/2 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon dried orange peel
1 vanilla beans , seeds scraped and pod discarded or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup dried apricot , cut into a fine dice ( or other light dried fruit such as citron )
3/4 cup dried cranberries , cut into a fine dice ( or other dark dried fruit such as cherries or raisins )
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon water
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
16-18
Calories
289
Sugar
35g
Fat
6g
Hot cross buns have been around for centuries and have become a traditional Easter Sunday food item in many parts of the world. The appearance of the cross on the buns has religious significance to mark the beginning of Easter holidays. With origins stemming back to ancient pagan times, buns adorned with a cross have long been an important part of spring festivals. This recipe, however, has an updated modern twist by adding dried fruits and extra spices to the traditional plain buns. They are a flavorful and delicious option that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Instructions

1.In a small bowl, combine yeast, water, and 1 tsp of sugar. Let it sit until foamy for about 5 minutes.
2.In a separate large bowl, mix together boiled mashed potatoes, milk, sugar, salt, and 3 cups of flour. Add the yeast mixture to the large bowl and stir until well combined.
3.In a mixer, cream the butter, rest of the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, clove, coriander, orange peel, and vanilla until smooth. Add the eggs and continue mixing until combined.
4.Stir the butter mixture into the potato mixture, continuously adding additional flour until the dough comes together in a ball.
5.Turn the dough on a lightly floured surface and add the dried cranberries and apricots, knead until the fruit is evenly distributed. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2.5 hours.
6.Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Make 16-18 equal-sized dough balls, place them on the baking sheet and cover with a damp towel. Allow to rise for about 1 hour.
7.In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and water till it's smooth. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the egg mixture over the tops of each of the buns.
8.Bake for around 20 - 25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and lightly firm.
9.In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Place the mix in a piping bag or a small plastic bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe a cross over each roll after they've cooled down.

PROS

Hot Cross buns are flavorful yeast rolls traditionally eaten in many parts of the world such as Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.
With a moist, fluffy texture, and a sweet addition of dried fruits and spice, these buns are perfect for breakfast and brunch.
They have a good and moderate length of time to prepare, bake and rise.

CONS

Hot Cross buns are unfortunately high in calories and sugar, and should be enjoyed in moderation.
Since this recipe requires a longer time of preparation, rising, and then baking, it may be a challenge to make if time is limited.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Fruits like dried cranberries and apricots added to these buns are sources of antioxidants and fiber, which supports good digestive health. Cinnamon in the buns is known to help regulate blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity. That said, it’s important to consume in moderation to avoid high calorie and sugar values.

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