Ultimate Hot Cross Buns Recipe: Soft, Spiced & Irresistible!

In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Make sure everything is mixed well to create a uniform base for your dough.

In another bowl, mix together the melted butter, warm milk, and eggs. Whisk until it’s well combined, and you have a smooth mixture.

Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms. It might be a little messy, but that’s okay!

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If it’s sticking too much, sprinkle a bit more flour on the surface.

Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. This is the dough’s time to shine!

Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Knead in the dried fruit and candied orange peel (if using). Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a bun and place them in a greased baking dish, making sure they are close together. This will help them rise better.

Cover the dish with a damp cloth and let the buns rise again for about 30-45 minutes until they’re puffy and nearly touching each other.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown on top and smell heavenly!

While the buns are baking, make the icing by mixing confectioners’ sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. Adjust the milk until you reach your desired icing consistency.

Once baked, remove the buns from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle or pipe the icing over the buns in a cross shape—this is the classic look for Hot Cross Buns!

These buns are best served warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious homemade Hot Cross Buns with family and friends!