✝️ Fluffy Hot Cross Buns with Raisins (Soft & Easy Homemade Recipe)
These fluffy hot cross buns with raisins are soft, lightly spiced, and perfectly sweet with a shiny glaze. Traditionally enjoyed during Easter, these homemade buns are easy to make and fill your kitchen with a warm, bakery-style aroma.
🧾 Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (50g) sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
- ¼ cup (60g) butter (melted)
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup raisins or currants
For the Cross:
- ½ cup flour
- 5–6 tbsp water (to form a thick paste)
For the Glaze:
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp water
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, mix warm milk, 1 tablespoon sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the Dough
In a large bowl:
- Combine flour, remaining sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla
- Mix until a soft dough forms
3. Knead the Dough
Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Gently fold in raisins until evenly distributed.
4. First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Buns
- Divide dough into 12 equal pieces
- Roll into smooth balls
- Place on a lined baking tray close together
- Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes
6. Add the Signature Cross
Mix flour and water into a thick paste. Pipe a cross over each bun.
7. Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
8. Glaze for Shine
Boil sugar and water for 2 minutes, then brush over hot buns for a glossy finish.
🔥 Tips for Perfect Hot Cross Buns
- Use warm (not hot) milk to properly activate yeast
- Don’t skip the second rise—it’s key for soft, fluffy buns
- Add orange zest for extra flavor
- Swap raisins with chocolate chips or dried cranberries if desired
