Easter is a time for celebration and delicious treats, and hot cross buns are a classic favorite during this festive season. These soft, sweet, and spiced buns, adorned with a distinctive cross on top, are a symbol of Easter and have been enjoyed for centuries. The use of buttermilk in this recipe adds a rich, tangy flavor that complements the warm spices and currants. Making hot cross buns from scratch might seem like a challenge, but with this detailed recipe, you’ll have the perfect batch of buns ready for your Easter brunch or any special occasion. Let’s dive into making these delightful treats that are sure to bring joy to your celebrations.
Ingredients for Perfect Easter Buttermilk Hot Cross Buns
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup currants (or raisins)
- 1/4 cup candied orange peel, chopped (optional)
- For the cross:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup water
- For the glaze:
- 1/4 cup apricot jam (or honey)
How to Make Perfect Easter Buttermilk Hot Cross Buns
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a small saucepan, warm the buttermilk over low heat until it reaches about 110°F (43°C). Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until dissolved.
- Sprinkle the yeast over the warm buttermilk mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and will help the buns rise.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. These spices give the buns their warm, comforting flavor.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and eggs. Mix until a dough forms. The butter adds richness, while the eggs contribute to the texture and structure of the buns.
4. Knead the Dough
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
5. Add the Currants and Candied Orange Peel
- Gently fold in the currants and candied orange peel (if using). These add a burst of sweetness and a hint of citrus flavor to the buns.
6. First Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
7. Shape the Buns
- Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange the buns close together for soft, pull-apart rolls.
8. Prepare the Cross Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix together the 1/2 cup flour and 1/4 cup water to form a thick paste. Transfer this paste to a piping bag or a plastic bag with the tip cut off. Pipe a cross shape on top of each bun.
9. Second Rise
- Cover the shaped buns with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until they have puffed up and are touching each other.
10. Bake the Buns
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Glaze the Buns
- While the buns are baking, heat the apricot jam in a small saucepan over low heat until it becomes liquid. Brush the warm jam over the buns as soon as they come out of the oven to give them a shiny, sweet finish.
12. Cool and Serve
- Allow the buns to cool on a wire rack before serving. They are best enjoyed warm but can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.
About the Main Ingredients
Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps to tenderize the dough. Its acidity reacts with the baking soda to create a light and fluffy texture.
Granulated Sugar and Butter: These provide sweetness and richness to the buns. The butter adds moisture and flavor, while the sugar helps to activate the yeast.
Yeast: Active dry yeast is essential for leavening the dough. It ferments the sugars in the dough, producing carbon dioxide and causing the dough to rise.
Flour: All-purpose flour provides structure to the buns. The gluten in the flour helps trap the gases produced by the yeast, giving the buns their soft and airy texture.
Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves are traditional spices used in hot cross buns, giving them their characteristic warm and aromatic flavor.
Currants and Candied Orange Peel: Currants add a sweet and chewy texture, while candied orange peel provides a hint of citrus. Both ingredients enhance the flavor and visual appeal of the buns.
Apricot Jam: Used as a glaze, apricot jam gives the buns a glossy finish and a touch of sweetness.
Hot cross buns are a timeless treat that can be enjoyed throughout the year, not just at Easter. Their soft texture and spiced flavor make them a comforting and indulgent treat for any occasion. Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious buns with family and friends!
