Hot cross buns are a timeless Easter treat, but they’re so delicious that they deserve a spot on your table all year round! Soft, spiced, and filled with juicy raisins or currants, these buns are topped with a signature cross and finished with a glossy KORE Manuka Honey glaze.
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make bakery-quality hot cross buns from scratch. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, follow these steps for the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and fluffy texture.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 650g bread flour (11.5% protein)
- 8g instant dried yeast
- 70g white granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 30g brown sugar
- 6g ground cinnamon
- 6g allspice
- 375ml lukewarm milk
- 1 large beaten egg
- 50g melted butter (not hot)
- 150g to 200g raisins/currants
For the Crossing Paste:
- 75g bread flour (add more if needed)
- 100ml water
For the Glaze:
- KORE Manuka Honey
- 150ml warm water
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, yeast, white sugar, salt, brown sugar, cinnamon, and allspice.
- Add the lukewarm milk, beaten egg, and melted butter to the dry ingredients.
- Mix for about 30 seconds, then add the raisins or currants.
- Continue mixing until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic (this takes about 10 minutes).
Step 2: First Proofing
- Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 3: Shape the Buns
- Once the dough has risen, gently press it down to release air.
- Roll it into a log and cut it into 12 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them close together on a greased baking tray.
- Cover the tray and let the dough rest again for 40 minutes until puffy.
Step 4: Make the Cross & Bake
- Prepare the crossing paste by mixing the bread flour with water until smooth.
- Pipe the paste in a cross shape over each bun.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (convection setting) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Step 5: Glaze with KORE Manuka Honey
- While the buns are still warm, mix KORE Manuka Honey with 150ml warm water to create a glaze.
- Brush the glaze generously over the buns for a shiny, sweet finish.
Serving & Storage Tips
・Reheat in the oven or microwave for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
・Enjoy your hot cross buns warm with butter or extra honey drizzled on top.
・Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
These homemade hot cross buns are soft, spiced, and made even better with the natural sweetness of KORE Manuka Honey. Whether for Easter or a cozy afternoon tea, they’re a treat that’s worth the effort. Happy baking!
For more tips and DIY recipes, visit our blog and discover the benefits of KORE Manuka honey.