Julia's Hot Cross Buns Recipe

This recipe for hot cross buns by Julia is a classic and delightful treat perfect for Easter or any time of the year. These buns are soft, sweet, and spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and topped with a cross made from a simple icing. Enjoy them warm with butter for a tasty snack or breakfast.

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup chopped candied peel
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. Dissolve yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, mix sugar, flour, salt, raisins, candied peel, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add melted butter, yeast mixture, and beaten egg to the dry ingredients and mix to form a dough.
4. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces, shaping each into a ball.
7. Place the balls on a baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Bake buns for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
10. Prepare icing by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
11. Pipe crosses on top of the buns with the icing once they have cooled slightly.
12. Serve warm and enjoy!

Interesting Facts