※ Hot Cross Buns

INGREDIENTS 

• 2 tsp dried instant yeast
• 500 g plain four
• 90 g sugar
• 300 ml milk
• 1tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground all spice
• ¼ tsp fresh grated nutmeg
• 60 g butter
• 1 large egg
• 140 g sultanas (or a mix of currants, sultanas and raisins)
• 30 g mixed peel (optional)

Crosses

• 2 tbsp self raising flour
• 2 tbsp cold water

Glaze

• 4 tbsp sugar
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• 150 ml boiling water
• View conversion table
• Preparation
• Sift together flour, spices, salt and yeast to evenly distribute.

METHOD

In a small saucepan gently heat the milk over a low temperature and melt the butter into it.

In a separate bowl beat the egg.

Add the milk and butter mixture to the flour and mix thoroughly. Add the egg and mix well to form a dough.

Work in the dried fruit and peel.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until it feels smooth and is no longer sticky (approx 10 mins).

Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap and place in a warm spot to prove.
Leave for an hour or until doubled in size.

Punch the dough down and then separate it into 12 equal portions.

Place the buns close together on a lightly greased baking tray.

Cover and allow to rise until doubled in size and very light (approx another hour).

For the crosses: Mix the flour and water thoroughly to form a thick paste. Spoon into a zip-lock bag, cut a little hole out of the corner of the bag and use it to pipe the mixture in crosses on top of the buns.

Bake the topped buns at 220°C for 15–20mins.

For the glaze: Mix together all ingredients, dissolving the sugar in the boiling water. Brush over the buns lightly while still hot.