The Ultimate Soft & Fluffy Hot Cross Buns Recipe

sweetened condensed milk

🥗Healthier: coconut milk

💰Cheaper: evaporated milk + sugar

Coconut milk provides a dairy-free option while maintaining sweetness.

all-purpose flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: bread flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is a healthier fat alternative.

currants

🥗Healthier: dried cranberries

💰Cheaper: raisins

Dried cranberries offer a tart flavor and are often more affordable.

In a large bowl, add bread flour (or all-purpose flour) for a softer bun.

Add allspice and salt to the flour and mix well.

Rub in cold cubed butter with hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add sugar and lemon zest to the flour mixture and mix again.

Add instant yeast directly into the dry ingredients.

Heat milk until lukewarm (blood temperature) and add an egg, then mix.

Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, holding back a little flour if needed.

Knead the dough by hand until it comes together and is clean from the bowl.

Scatter raisins over the dough and knead them in until evenly distributed.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with cling wrap, and let it proof for 1.5 to 2 hours until puffy.

Turn the dough out onto the countertop and divide it into 12 equal pieces (around 3.5 ounces each).

Roll each piece into a ball, tucking scraggly bits underneath to form a smooth surface.

Place the rolled dough balls into a greased 9x13 inch baking tray in a 4 by 3 arrangement.

Cover the tray and let the buns rise in a warm spot for 60 to 90 minutes until puffed up.

Before baking, egg wash the tops of the buns for a golden finish.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens