Irresistibly Soft Hot Cross Buns

Irresistibly Soft Hot Cross Buns
ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup water, warmed
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed dried fruit (currants, raisins, sultanas)
- 1/2 cup candied citrus peel (optional)
- 1/4 cup icing sugar, for cross icing
- 1-2 tsp water, for cross icing
steps
- 1.
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- 2.
In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, water, melted butter, and eggs.
- 3.
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- 4.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- 5.
Incorporate the dried fruits and candied peel into the dough, kneading lightly.
- 6.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled.
- 7.
Once risen, punch down and divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, shaping each into a ball.
- 8.
Arrange the buns on a greased baking tray, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- 9.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 10.
Bake buns for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- 11.
In a small bowl, mix icing sugar with water to form a thick paste. Pipe crosses onto cooled buns.