# Creating Homemade Hot Cross Buns: An Achievement Simpler Than You Imagine!
Hot cross buns are a delightful delicacy that many link to Easter festivities. These sweet, spiced buns, traditionally adorned with a cross, boast a rich history going back to the 12th century. While they are frequently bought from bakeries, crafting them at home can be a satisfying endeavor that fills your kitchen with the warm and welcoming scent of freshly baked bread. This article will walk you through the steps of making your own homemade hot cross buns, featuring a tasty twist with dried cherries and creamy white chocolate.
## Quick and Simple
The catchy nursery rhyme “Hot cross buns, hot cross buns, one a penny, two a penny, hot cross buns!” is a well-known jingle during the Easter season. Many individuals cherish memories of savoring hot cross buns from local bakeries, particularly those that offer samples. Although purchasing these goodies is convenient, baking your own can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. The aroma of cinnamon and yeasty dough drifting through your home serves as a comforting reminder of the pleasures of baking.
This year, why not give making hot cross buns from scratch a chance? By utilizing a favorite soft and fluffy dinner roll recipe as a foundation, you can whip up a batch that’s not only delightful but also distinctly yours.
## What Are Hot Cross Buns?
Hot cross buns are sweet, yeasted rolls that are generally enjoyed during Easter. Traditionally, they are prepared with dried fruits such as raisins or currants and are marked with a cross on top, symbolizing the crucifixion of Jesus. Initially, these buns were consumed on Good Friday, signifying the conclusion of Lent. Nowadays, they can be enjoyed throughout the year, yet they maintain a special significance in Easter traditions.
## How to Prepare Hot Cross Buns
Crafting hot cross buns is more straightforward than you may think! If you’ve ever prepared dinner rolls, you’re just minutes away from making these delightful treats. Here’s a simple recipe to follow:
### Ingredients
– 120g warm water (~1/2 cup)
– 1 tsp active dry yeast
– 250g bread flour (~1 3/4 cups)
– 30g sugar (~2 tbsp)
– 5g cinnamon (~2 tsp)
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 large egg (lightly beaten)
– 25g butter (at room temperature, ~2 tbsp)
– 1/2 cup dried cherries
– 1/2 cup white chocolate (chopped, plus extra for crosses)
– 1 tbsp apricot jam
### Instructions
1. **Activate the Yeast**: Sprinkle the yeast into the warm water and allow it to become foamy.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a bowl, blend the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. **Combine Ingredients**: Add the yeast mixture and the beaten egg to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
4. **Knead the Dough**: Incorporate the butter and knead the dough until it is smooth.
5. **Incorporate Add-ins**: Gently fold in the dried cherries and white chocolate. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and let it rise for about an hour.
6. **Shape the Buns**: Once the dough has doubled in size, transfer it onto a floured surface, divide it into 9 equal pieces, shape them into balls, and arrange them in a greased 8×8 pan. Allow them to rise again until doubled.
7. **Bake**: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for around 15 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with apricot jam and drizzle melted white chocolate crosses on top.
## Hot Cross Buns Ingredients Clarified
– **Bread Flour**: The secret to achieving soft, airy buns. It has a higher protein content compared to all-purpose flour, contributing to a chewy texture.
– **Yeast**: This recipe uses active dry yeast, but you can substitute it with instant yeast if necessary.
– **Dried Cherries and White Chocolate**: These ingredients provide a sweet and tart flavor that beautifully complements the cinnamon.
## What’s the Flavor of Hot Cross Buns?
Traditionally, hot cross buns are soft, sweet, and spiced, often containing dried fruits. The inclusion of cherries and white chocolate in this recipe offers a unique flavor experience that is both comforting and indulgent. The buns are brushed with apricot jam for a glossy finish and adorned with a white chocolate cross, making them as visually appealing as they are tasty.
## Variations
Feel free to personalize your hot cross buns with various ingredients! Here are some suggestions:
– **Classic**: Use sultanas, raisins, or currants.
– **Orange Cranberry**: Integrate dried cranberries and orange zest.
– **Blueberry Dark Chocolate**: Add dried blueberries and dark chocolate.