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Cozy Gluten Free Hot Cross Buns Recipe Easy Homemade with Raisins and Citrus Zest

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These cozy gluten free hot cross buns with raisins and citrus zest offer a soft, tender texture and a perfect balance of warm spices and bright citrus flavors. Ideal for festive occasions or a comforting snack, they are easy to make and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (360 g) gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (e.g., Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Baking Flour)
  • 1 teaspoon xanthan gum (if your flour blend doesn’t contain it)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (110°F/43°C) or almond/oat milk for dairy-free
  • 4 tablespoons (56 g) unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (plus 1 tablespoon for yeast activation)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon
  • 3/4 cup (100 g) golden raisins (soaked in warm water or orange juice and drained)
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) gluten-free flour (for piping crosses)
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
  • 1–2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (for glaze)
  • Flour for dusting (rice flour recommended)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C) with 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups gluten-free flour, 1 teaspoon xanthan gum (if needed), 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and the zest of one orange and one lemon.
  3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk 2 eggs and 4 tablespoons softened butter until smooth. Add the yeast mixture once bubbly and mix well.
  4. Form the dough: Slowly add wet mixture to dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or stand mixer on low. Dough will be sticky; adjust with milk or flour if needed.
  5. Add raisins: Fold in drained golden raisins gently.
  6. First rise: Cover bowl and let dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until slightly puffed.
  7. Shape buns: Dust hands and surface with gluten-free flour. Divide dough into 10 equal portions (~3 oz each). Roll into balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
  8. Second rise: Cover and let buns rise for 30-40 minutes until springy to touch.
  9. Pipe crosses: Mix 1/2 cup gluten-free flour with enough water to make a thick paste. Pipe crosses over each bun using a piping bag or zip-top bag.
  10. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake buns for 18-20 minutes until golden and hollow sounding when tapped.
  11. Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with orange juice until smooth. Brush warm buns immediately after baking.
  12. Cool and enjoy: Let buns cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm with butter or honey.

Notes

Use warm milk at 110°F to activate yeast properly. Do not overmix dough to avoid toughness. Keep dough sticky for soft buns. Adjust dough consistency with milk or flour as needed. Prepare glaze during baking for convenience. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil and milk with plant-based milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: gluten free, hot cross buns, Easter, raisins, citrus zest, homemade, easy baking, dairy-free option

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/cozy-gluten-free-hot-cross-buns-recipe-easy-homemade-with-raisins-and-citrus-zest/