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Cozy Hot Cross Buns Recipe with Easy Vanilla Glaze for Perfect Treats

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A classic hot cross buns recipe featuring warm spices and a soft, tender crumb, finished with a sweet vanilla glaze. Perfect for cozy breakfasts, Easter brunch, or any special morning treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp or 7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 1/2 cup (75g) raisins or currants (soaked in warm water for 10 minutes, drained)
  • For the Crosses:
  • 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) water
  • For the Vanilla Glaze:
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) whole milk
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast by combining warmed milk (110°F/43°C), sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let sit 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
  3. Add yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to dry ingredients. Stir until dough starts to come together.
  4. Knead dough by hand for 10-12 minutes or with mixer dough hook for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Fold in soaked and drained raisins or currants.
  6. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until doubled.
  7. Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces (about 2.5 oz each). Roll into balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
  8. Cover buns loosely and let rise for 30-40 minutes until puffy but not doubled.
  9. Mix 1/2 cup flour with 1/3 cup water to form thick paste for crosses. Transfer to piping bag or ziplock bag.
  10. Pipe crosses over each bun.
  11. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake buns for 18-22 minutes until golden and hollow sounding when tapped.
  12. While baking, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make glaze.
  13. Brush vanilla glaze over hot buns immediately after baking.
  14. Cool buns slightly on wire rack before serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Warm milk to about 110°F to activate yeast without killing it. Knead dough thoroughly for soft, chewy buns. Pipe crosses with thick paste for best shape. Brush glaze immediately after baking for best absorption. Variations include adding orange zest, cranberries, or chocolate chips. Vegan and gluten-free versions possible with substitutions.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot cross buns, vanilla glaze, Easter brunch, cozy breakfast, spiced buns, homemade buns, easy baking

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/cozy-hot-cross-buns-recipe-with-easy-vanilla-glaze-for-perfect-treats/