Hot cross buns have been on the request list from the kids for quite a while. We made these last weekend and the aroma of freshly baked hot cross buns filled the house. Even the musical solo on the recorder added a bit of spirit to the kitchen. Needless to say, they didn’t last long in our house. The warm, spiced bread filled with plump raisins and topped with sweet vanilla icing was simply irresistible.
Hot Cross Buns, a Symbol of Christianity
Hot cross buns, with their rich history, have served as a symbol of Christianity for over nine centuries. Traditionally baked on Good Friday, there was a time when their creation was confined to that day, as well as Easter, Christmas, and funerals, highlighting their special significance. The dough, a simple white bread laced with warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, is dotted with sweet raisins. Each bun is delicately decorated with a cross made of sweet icing. Each element of the bun carries profound symbolic meaning that resonates deeply with the Easter story.
– The Cross: The icing cross elegantly represents Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.
– The Spices: The fragrant spices reflect those used in the embalming of Jesus’ body, reminding us of the somber moments of his journey.
– The Raisins: These sweet morsels symbolize Jesus’ body resting in the tomb.
– The Sweetness: The delightful sweetness of the bread, the creamy icing, and the yeast’s lightness all embody Jesus’ resurrection.
In the Christian tradition, Good Friday has long been a day characterized by complete fasting. Today, it’s common to break that fast at three in the afternoon, the very hour when Christ died, by feasting on these special buns. If you’re eager to explore the fascinating history and cultural significance of hot cross buns, I recommend checking out The story of hot cross buns, Redlands Daily Facts.
Even after all these centuries, hot cross buns remain a cherished Easter tradition. They bring joy and a reminder of the significance of Easter to many.
Preparation, Servings, and Storage
Preparing these delectable buns involves a preparation time of around four hours; however, don’t be intimidated, as three of those hours are simply for the dough to rise, with an additional 30 minutes dedicated to cooling. The entire process of baking these heavenly treats is undoubtedly worth the effort, resulting in twelve exquisite hot cross buns that practically melt in your mouth. To keep them fresh, store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, refrigerate them for a week, or freeze them for a delightful indulgence up to three months later.
If you’re on the hunt for more scrumptious sweet bread recipes to explore, look no further!
Hot Cross Buns
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Instructions
- In a small bowl, warm the butter and milk in the microwave. The melted butter and milk temperature should be between 100-110℉.
- Pour the melted butter and milk mixture into a stand mixer bowl.
- Add the instant yeast, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and eggs.
- Using the dough hook, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes or until all of the flour is absorbed into the dough and a dough ball has formed.
- Add the raisins and knead the dough to incorporate the raisins into the dough.
- Lightly grease the bowl, cover and allow to rise for 2 hours.
- Punch down the dough and divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough pieces into little dough balls. Set the dough balls into a greased 13x9 baking dish. Cover and allow to rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375℉.
- Cut crosses about 1/4 inch deep in each bun
- Whisk the egg and water to make the egg wash and brush each bun with the egg wash.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the buns internal temperature is 190℉.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before icing the buns.
- To prepare the icing, mix the powdered sugar, cream, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth.
- Scoop the icing into a small sandwich bag, cut the tip of the bag, and squeeze the icing into the crosses on each bun. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
