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Cozy Hot Cross Buns Recipe with Easy Vanilla Glaze for Perfect Comfort

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Soft, flavorful hot cross buns with a subtle vanilla glaze that adds a cozy sweetness. Perfect for cozy mornings, holidays, or anytime you want a comforting treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp or 7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup (120g) raisins or currants, soaked in warm water for 10 minutes
  • For the crosses:
  • 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) water (adjust as needed)
  • For the vanilla glaze:
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) whole milk
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast by combining warm milk (110°F/43°C), a pinch of sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl or stand mixer, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or knead with a stand mixer on medium speed for 6-7 minutes.
  5. Drain soaked raisins and knead them evenly into the dough.
  6. Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until doubled in size.
  7. Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces (about 2.5 oz or 70g each). Shape into smooth balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
  8. Cover buns loosely and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  9. Mix flour and water to form a thick but pipeable paste for the crosses. Transfer to a piping bag or zip-top bag with a small corner cut off.
  10. Pipe a vertical and horizontal line over each bun to form crosses.
  11. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake buns for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
  12. While baking, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze.
  13. Remove buns from oven and immediately brush or drizzle vanilla glaze over warm tops.
  14. Let buns cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Milk temperature is crucial for yeast activation; aim for about 110°F (43°C). Slightly tacky dough is better than dry. Soak raisins for plumpness. For extra shine, brush buns with melted butter after glazing. Resting times are key for soft texture. Piping crosses can be done with a spoon if no piping bag is available.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot cross buns, vanilla glaze, cozy buns, Easter buns, sweet rolls, homemade buns, cinnamon buns, easy baking

Find it online: https://evabake.com/cozy-hot-cross-buns-recipe-with-easy-vanilla-glaze-for-perfect-comfort/