Hot crossed buns are usually made at Easter-time, but they are a really nice treat anytime.

Hot cross buns

Yield: 6 buns

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup AP flour
  • 1 package yeast
  • 1 teaspoon mixed spices (allspice, nutmeg)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 cup raisins or dried currents
  • 1/4 cup candied citron
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/3-1/2 cup warm water
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • few drops vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons non-dairy milk

Hot cross buns
Directions:

  1. Place the flour, salt and spices in a bowl.
  2. Add the 1 tablespoon sugar, raisins or currents and citron.
  3. Mix well.
  4. Place the yeast, 1 teaspoon of sugar and warm water in a small bowl and allow to bubble for a few minutes.
  5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix (I used a fork).
  6. Place plastic wrap or a wet towel over the top of the bowl and place the bowl in a warm spot for the dough to raise.
  7. When the dough has doubled in size, preheat the oven to 425 F / 218 C, and form 6 buns.
  8. Place the buns on a rimmed baking sheet with baking parchment.
  9. Place in the oven to bake for 10-15 minutes.
  10. While the buns are baking, make the frosting for the crosses.
  11. Mix the powdered sugar, vanilla and non-dairy creamer into a thick mixture.
  12. Place the mixture in a pastry bag or decorating tube.
  13. When the buns are done remove from the oven and allow to cool on a rack.
  14. Once, cooled, decorate the buns with a cross.
  15. We enjoyed the buns with a fresh cup of coffee.