Homemade Hot Cross Buns

Spring is in the air, and with it comes the sweet aroma of spices and fresh bread baking in the kitchen. Hot cross buns are a timeless treat that brings a little warmth and cheer to any Easter celebration. Soft, slightly sweet, and speckled with currants or raisins, these buns are perfect for sharing with family or enjoying with a cup of tea while the world starts to bloom outside.

Making your own hot cross buns might seem intimidating, but the truth is, it’s easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create bakery-quality buns right at home. The smell alone as they bake will fill your kitchen with the comforting scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and freshly baked dough. It’s a sensory experience that feels both indulgent and homey.

What makes these buns special is the little cross on top, a classic symbol that’s traditionally associated with Easter. It’s a charming touch that turns simple bread into something celebratory and meaningful. And while they’re perfect for Easter morning, these buns are just as delightful as a snack or dessert any time of year.

For anyone new to baking, this recipe is ideal because it’s structured to be an easy hot cross buns recipe. You don’t need fancy equipment or rare ingredients — just some basic pantry staples and a little time. The result is soft, fluffy buns with a lightly spiced flavor, perfectly balanced sweetness, and that iconic cross that makes them instantly recognizable. Homemade hot cross buns bring both tradition and deliciousness to your table.

Ingredient List

For the Dough:

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup (120g) raisins or currants

For the Cross:

• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup (80ml) water

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water

Ingredient Notes

• I always use full-fat milk for the dough—it makes the buns extra soft and rich.
• Don’t skip the spices! Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice give that classic Easter flavor that makes homemade hot cross buns irresistible.
• For raisins or currants, I like soaking them in warm water for 10 minutes—it keeps them plump and juicy inside the buns.
• I recommend unsalted butter so you can control the sweetness and balance the flavors perfectly.
• The cross paste is just flour and water, but it’s the signature detail that makes them look like Easter magic.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl – For combining all your dough ingredients. I love using a sturdy glass one so you can see everything come together.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements make a huge difference in baking. My favorite set has both metric and standard.
• Whisk – For mixing the yeast and wet ingredients smoothly.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Perfect for stirring the dough before kneading. I always reach for my silicone spatula—it’s gentle but strong.
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional) – Makes kneading easier if you don’t want to work the dough by hand.
• Baking sheet or tray – To hold the buns while they bake. I line mine with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Piping bag or small plastic bag – For creating the cross on top of the buns. A small tip or just snipping the corner works fine.
• Small saucepan – To make the sugar glaze that gives the buns a shiny, irresistible finish.
• Cooling rack – Helps the buns cool evenly and keeps the bottoms from getting soggy.

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

• Warm the milk until it’s just lukewarm (around 100–110°F / 37–43°C). Too hot and it can kill the yeast.
• In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast.
• Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.

Pro Tip: If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old—start over with fresh yeast for the best rise.

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2. Make the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
• Add the melted butter, egg, and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients.
• Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms.

Pro Tip: Use your hands to gently bring the dough together if it’s too sticky to stir—this gives you better control.

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3. Knead the Dough

• Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
• Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
• Add a little flour if the dough is too sticky, but don’t overdo it—you want soft buns.

Pro Tip: Press with the heel of your hand, fold, and rotate the dough as you knead—it helps build strength for a fluffier bun.

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4. First Rise

• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
• Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1–1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Pro Tip: Preheat your oven to 100°F for a few minutes, turn it off, and use it as a cozy spot for the dough to rise faster.

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5. Shape the Buns

• Punch down the dough to release air.
• Divide it into 12–16 equal pieces, rolling each into a smooth ball.
• Place the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them to expand.

Pro Tip: Keep the surface lightly floured while rolling to prevent sticking but avoid adding too much flour, which can dry the dough.

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6. Second Rise

• Cover the shaped buns with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
• They should look soft and slightly enlarged.

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7. Make the Cross

• Mix the flour and water until it forms a thick, pipeable paste.
• Transfer the paste to a piping bag or small plastic bag with the tip cut off.
• Pipe a cross over the top of each bun.

Pro Tip: Don’t worry about perfect lines—rustic is charming, and the cross will stay in place during baking.

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8. Bake the Buns

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake the buns for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
• Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.

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9. Glaze for Shine

• In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat until sugar dissolves completely.
• Brush the warm glaze over the tops of the buns while they’re still slightly warm.

Pro Tip: The glaze gives a beautiful shine and keeps the buns soft longer—don’t skip it!

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Measure carefully – Baking is precise, so weighing your flour and liquids can make a big difference in texture.
• Don’t rush the rises – Allowing the dough to double in size ensures soft, fluffy buns every time.
• Keep buns covered – During the second rise, a towel prevents a dry crust from forming.
• Check oven temperature – An oven thermometer helps prevent overbaking or underbaking.
• Use room-temperature ingredients – Eggs, milk, and butter at room temp mix more evenly and give better rise.
• Cool slightly before glazing – Brushing glaze while buns are warm helps it absorb and shine without making a mess.
• Experiment with spices – A pinch of cloves or cardamom can add a unique twist without overpowering the classic flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Milk – Swap for almond, oat, or soy milk to make dairy-free buns.
• Butter – Use coconut oil or plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly version.
• Sugar – Brown sugar or honey works for a richer, deeper sweetness.
• Dried fruit – Swap raisins for sultanas, dried cranberries, or chopped apricots.
• Spices – Adjust cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to suit your taste; some like more cinnamon, others prefer more nutmeg.
• Chocolate twist – Add mini chocolate chips instead of dried fruit for a sweet variation kids will love.
• Glaze – Maple syrup or apricot jam can replace the sugar glaze for a slightly different flavor and shine.

Serving Suggestions

• I love serving these homemade hot cross buns warm with a pat of butter—it melts right in and makes them irresistible.
• Toasted and spread with cream cheese or your favorite jam is my go-to afternoon treat with tea.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or chai for a cozy Easter morning breakfast.
• Slice them in half and make mini sandwiches with ham and cheese for a fun, savory twist.
• For a dessert option, top with a drizzle of chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream—it’s indulgent but not over the top.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Room temperature – Keep buns in an airtight container for up to 2 days; they stay soft and fresh.
• Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days; bring to room temp before serving.
• Freezer – Wrap buns individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating – Warm buns in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds for a soft, fresh-baked taste.
• Glaze tip – Brush a little extra glaze after reheating to restore that fresh-baked shine and sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these buns ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise slowly in the fridge, and bake them fresh the next morning. It’s a great way to save time on Easter morning.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! Use the same amount, but skip the activation step with warm milk. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

Why didn’t my buns rise properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and the liquid isn’t too hot or cold. Also, give the dough enough time to double in size—it makes all the difference.

Can I make them vegan?

Definitely. Swap butter for plant-based alternatives, milk for almond or oat milk, and use a flax or chia egg instead of a regular egg. You’ll still get soft, fluffy buns.

How do I keep the buns soft for longer?

Store them in an airtight container and avoid refrigerating if you plan to eat them within a couple of days. You can also reheat and brush with a little glaze to restore softness.

Can I add other flavors?

Yes! Try adding orange zest, a pinch of cloves, or even mini chocolate chips for a twist on the traditional recipe.

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Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how your homemade hot cross buns turned out! I’d love to hear your tips, tweaks, or any delicious variations you tried.