Step 1: Make the Dough
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice.
Add Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the warm milk, melted butter, and beaten egg. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Add Fruits: Fold in the currants (or raisins) and mixed peel (if using).
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Knead: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Buns
Punch Down: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and turn it out onto a floured surface.
Form Buns: Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bun.
Second Rise: Cover the buns with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another hour, or until they have puffed up.
Step 4: Add the Cross
Prepare Cross Mixture: Mix 1/2 cup flour with about 5 tablespoons water to make a thick paste. Adjust the water as needed.
Pipe the Cross: Transfer the paste to a piping bag or a plastic bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe a cross on top of each bun.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake: Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Step 6: Glaze the Buns
Make Glaze: While the buns are baking, combine 1/4 cup sugar and 1/4 cup water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and simmer until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Apply Glaze: As soon as the buns come out of the oven, brush them with the glaze.
TIPS FOR PERFECT HOT CROSS BUNS:
Warm Ingredients: Ensure your milk and egg are at room temperature to help the yeast work effectively.
Rising Time: The rising time can vary depending on the warmth of your kitchen. A warm, draft-free spot accelerates the rising process.
Baking in Batches: If your oven has hot spots, rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for even browning.
Enjoy your homemade hot cross buns warm, with a bit of butter, for a delicious treat that’s sure to become a favorite.
