These hot cross buns are a perfect treat for Easter, combining the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with sweet raisins. The soft and fluffy texture makes them irresistible for breakfast or as a snack with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup confectioners' sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour, sugar, salt, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Heat the milk and butter in a saucepan until warm (120-130 degrees F). Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and beat well.
- Add eggs and beat well. Stir in the raisins and enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
- Turn onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Punch the dough down and shape into 12 balls. Place in a greased 13x9 inch baking pan.
- Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes.
- Bake at 375 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- For the crosses, combine the water, confectioners' sugar, and vanilla extract. Pipe crosses onto the buns after they have cooled.
- Enjoy these delicious hot cross buns warm or at room temperature!
