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The Ultimate One-Pan Easter Hot Cross Buns Recipe: A Festive and Flavorful Treat for Your Brunch Table


  • Author: David Andersson
  • Total Time: 45 mins
  • Yield: 8 buns 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Hot Cross Buns are a beloved, traditional treat enjoyed during Easter. With their soft, lightly spiced texture and iconic cross on top, they bring the perfect balance of flavors to your table. This One-Pan Easter Hot Cross Buns Recipe will guide you through creating these delicious buns in just one pan for easy cleanup. Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch or a festive gathering, this recipe will surely impress your guests. Let’s get started with this warm, aromatic recipe that will fill your kitchen with delightful smells and your heart with joy.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough

  • ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)

  • 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg

  • ¼ tsp ground allspice (optional but lovely for flavor)

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 large egg, room temperature

  • ¾ cup raisins or currants

  • Zest of 1 orange (optional but adds brightness)


For the Cross

  • ¼ cup flour

  • 3 tbsp water (to make a pipeable paste)


For the Glaze

  • 2 tbsp apricot jam or honey (for a glossy finish)


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven:

    • Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a cast-iron skillet.

  2. Mix dry ingredients:

    • In a large bowl, whisk together flours, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

    • Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  3. Add raisins:

    • Stir in raisins (and caraway seeds, if using).

  4. Add wet ingredients:

    • In a small bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg together.

    • Pour into the dry mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms.

  5. Shape the loaf:

    • Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently 6–8 times, just until it comes together.

    • Shape into a round loaf and place on prepared baking sheet.

    • Cut a deep “X” on top (helps it bake evenly).

  6. Bake:

    • Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

    • Cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

These One-Pan Easter Hot Cross Buns are soft, fragrant, and perfect for celebrating the season! For extra indulgence, brush with a sweet glaze, sprinkle with extra cinnamon, or add chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture.

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Category: Bread, Dessert
  • Method: British
  • Cuisine: Baking

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bun
  • Calories: 220

Keywords: One-Pan Easter Hot Cross Buns Recipe