Hot Cross Bun Recipe: Makes 12 buns
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup superfine sugar
- 1/2 cup lukewarm milk
- 1/2 cup lukewarm water
- 2 pkg dry active yeast
- 3 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- pinch of cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup currants
- 1/3 cup mixed candied fruit
- 2 tablespoons honey to glaze
- For the cross - 2 tablespoons flour and 2 to 2 1/2 tablespoons water
Method
Dissolve 1 teaspoon of sugar in the milk and water, then stir in the yeast and set aside. In a bowl sift the flour, salt, spices and remaining sugar. Pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter and lightly beaten egg. Mix with a wooden spoon then knead for 6-8 minutes. Place dough into a clean oiled bowl and cover. Allow the dough to double in size. Lightly grease 2 coolie sheets. After the dough has risen add the currants and candied fruit and knead till well mixed. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape into buns. Place the buns well apart on the 2 cookie sheets. Cover again and leave in a warm place for 30 -40 minutes. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. To make the cross, mix the flour and water together to form a smooth paste. Spoon into a small pastry bag . Pipe a cross on each bun. Bake for 25 - 30 minutes. Immediately brush with honey and then return to oven and bake for another 3 minutes. Cool completely.