Soft, spiced, and irresistibly fragrant, these homemade Hot Cross Buns (No ABM) are the perfect Easter treat or an anytime indulgence! Made without a bread machine, this traditional recipe combines warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of orange zest, creating a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen. Tender dough is studded with sweet raisins or currants, hand-shaped into buns, and beautifully adorned with classic flour paste crosses. A light glaze of powdered sugar and milk adds a glossy finish for a bakery-worthy presentation. Whether served warm with a pat of butter or enjoyed as a festive snack, these buns are an essential bake for any celebration. Perfectly fluffy and full of flavor, they’re a reminder that the best things in life are homemade.
In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy to activate the yeast.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
Add the softened butter, beaten eggs, orange zest, and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until soft and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
Knead in the raisins or currants until evenly distributed.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball.
Place the buns on a greased or lined baking tray, leaving enough space for them to rise. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30-40 minutes, or until puffy.
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
For the crosses, mix 60g of all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of water to create a thick paste. Transfer the paste to a piping bag and pipe a cross shape over each bun.
Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
While the buns bake, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of milk until smooth.
As soon as the buns come out of the oven, brush them with the glaze for a glossy finish.
Let the buns cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Serving size | 1241.8 grams (1241.8g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 3445 |
Total Fat 62.80g | 81% |
Saturated Fat 33.00g | 165% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g | |
Cholesterol 503mg | 168% |
Sodium 2654mg | 115% |
Total Carbohydrate 641.30g | 233% |
Dietary Fiber 23.40g | 84% |
Total Sugars 182.70g | |
Protein 85.60g | 171% |
Vitamin D 190IU | 948% |
Calcium 594mg | 46% |
Iron 30mg | 168% |
Potassium 2066mg | 44% |
Source of Calories