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Soft Hot Cross Buns with Zesty Orange Glaze

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Soft, fluffy hot cross buns infused with orange zest and warm spices, topped with a tangy orange glaze. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these buns are easy to make and delightfully flavorful.

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 (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) warm whole milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • Zest of 1 large orange
  • 3/4 cup (110g) mixed dried fruit (currants, raisins, or chopped dried apricots)
  • For the crosses:
  • 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) water
  • For the zesty orange glaze:
  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice (from 1 medium orange)
  • 1 tsp orange zest

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast by combining warm milk (110°F / 43°C) with sugar and yeast in a small bowl. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, orange zest, and dried fruit.
  3. Make a well in the flour mixture and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and beaten egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or knead with a stand mixer dough hook for 6-7 minutes.
  5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  6. Deflate dough and divide into 12 equal pieces (about 2.5 oz each). Shape into smooth balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
  7. Cover buns loosely and let rise for 30-40 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.
  8. Mix 1/2 cup flour with 1/3 cup water to form a thick paste for the crosses. Transfer to a pastry bag and pipe crosses over each bun.
  9. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake buns for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
  10. While baking, whisk powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest to make the glaze.
  11. Brush the warm buns generously with the orange glaze immediately after baking.
  12. Transfer buns to a cooling rack and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Use fresh orange zest for best flavor. Dough should be slightly sticky but manageable; avoid adding too much flour. Apply glaze immediately after baking for best absorption and shine. Store buns in airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to keep soft.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot cross buns, orange glaze, soft buns, breakfast, brunch, homemade, cinnamon, dried fruit, easy baking

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/soft-hot-cross-buns-with-zesty-orange-glaze-easy-homemade-recipe/