Dark Sugar Spice Hot Cross Buns
Experience the comforting embrace of these soft, aromatic hot cross buns made with rich dark sugar. Enhanced with warm spices and filled with dried fruits, they offer a tender crumb and a glossy finish, ideal for festive gatherings or cozy breakfasts. The elegant cross detailing and robust flavor will elevate any occasion.
ingredients
- 368 g all-purpose flour
- 119 g bread flour
- 99 g dark sugar
- 7 g active dry yeast
- 6 g salt
- 4 g ground cinnamon
- 1 g ground nutmeg
- 1 g allspice
- 365 ml milk, warmed
- 60 g unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 150 g mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas)
- 75 g mixed peel (candied citrus peel)
- 60 ml water (for the glaze)
- 60 g apricot jam (for the glaze)
- 30 g icing sugar (for the cross)
- 15-30 ml milk (for the cross)
steps
- 1.
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, dark sugar, and yeast. Let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- 2.
Add melted butter, eggs, salt, spices, and half of the mixed flours to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
- 3.
Gradually stir in the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
- 4.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 5.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- 6.
Punch down the dough and fold in the dried fruit and mixed peel.
- 7.
Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, shape into buns, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- 8.
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- 9.
For the cross, mix icing sugar with milk to form a paste. Pipe crosses onto the risen buns.
- 10.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- 11.
For the glaze, heat apricot jam and water in a small saucepan, then brush over warm buns.