Description
Easter is a time for celebration, and what better way to enjoy the season than with a fresh batch of Easter Hot Cross Buns? These classic buns are soft, spiced, and filled with fruity goodness, making them the perfect treat to serve during your Easter festivities. With the added twist of a zesty citrus glaze, these buns not only taste amazing but also look visually stunning. The warm, fragrant aroma from the oven will surely fill your home with a sense of holiday joy.
Ingredients
For the Dough
¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
¼ cup granulated sugar
3¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground allspice
½ tsp salt
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg, room temperature
½ cup mixed dried fruit (such as raisins, currants, or chopped apricots)
1 tbsp orange zest (optional but lovely for Easter!)
For the Crosses
¼ cup flour
3 tbsp water (enough to form a thick paste)
For the Citrus Glaze
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tbsp fresh orange juice
½ tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp orange zest (optional for extra zing)
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tsp of the sugar.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
In a large bowl (or stand mixer), mix flour, spices, salt, and remaining sugar.
Add softened butter, egg, and yeast mixture.
Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 8–10 minutes (or 5 minutes in a mixer) until smooth and elastic.
Add dried fruit and orange zest; knead until evenly distributed.
Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Punch down dough to release air.
Divide into 12 equal pieces, shape into smooth balls, and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a 9×13″ pan, slightly touching each other.
Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
Mix flour and water into a thick paste.
Transfer to a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off, and pipe a cross over each bun.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown.
Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
Brush over warm buns right after baking for a shiny, citrusy finish.
Notes
These Easter Hot Cross Buns with Citrus Glaze bring a zesty twist to the classic holiday favorite! Soft, spiced, and perfectly sweet, they’re ideal for brunch or afternoon tea. The light citrus glaze adds a refreshing shine and flavor that makes every bite irresistible.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Bread, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: "Hot Cross Buns recipe," "Easter buns with citrus glaze," "classic hot cross buns," "Easter baking recipe"