Bread Maker Hot Cross Bun Recipe

Alright, gather 'round, my fellow bread enthusiasts! Today, we're going to tackle a classic that's been warming hearts and tickling taste buds for centuries - the humble Hot Cross Bun. Now, I know what you're thinking, "Hot Cross Buns? Isn't that just a fancy name for a regular bun?" Well, let me tell you, these aren't your average, everyday buns. They're like the rockstars of the bread world, and they're about to make your Easter (or any day, really) a whole lot brighter.

Why Hot Cross Buns, You Ask?

Well, picture this: it's a lazy Sunday morning, the sun's peeking through the curtains, and you're craving something warm, comforting, and just a tad bit special. You could go for your usual toast, but where's the fun in that? That's where our Hot Cross Buns come in. They're like the perfect blend of a cinnamon roll and a brioche, all wrapped up in a cute little package with a sweet, sticky glaze. It's like a party in your mouth, and everyone's invited!

But these aren't just any old buns. They've got a history that's as rich as their flavor. Legend has it that Queen Elizabeth I was so enamored with these buns that she declared they could be eaten all year round, not just at Easter. Now, I don't know about you, but if the queen's on board, I'm sold!

So, What Makes a Hot Cross Bun a Hot Cross Bun?

Great question! The secret lies in the spices - cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice give these buns their signature warm, comforting flavor. Then there's the cross on top, which is traditionally made from a simple dough or pastry. It's not just for looks, though - it represents the cross of Christ, making these buns a symbol of Easter. But don't worry, you can still enjoy them even if you're not celebrating Easter. After all, who needs an excuse to eat delicious bread?

But Wait, There's More!

You might be thinking, "This all sounds great, but I don't have the time or patience to make these from scratch." Well, hold onto your hats, because I've got a secret weapon for you - the bread maker! That's right, with a bread maker, you can whip up a batch of Hot Cross Buns in no time at all. It's like having a little baker elf tucked away in your kitchen, doing all the hard work for you.

Now, I know what you're thinking - "But I don't have a bread maker!" Well, let me tell you, they're not just for the rich and famous. They're affordable, easy to use, and they'll revolutionize your baking game. Plus, think of all the time you'll save not having to knead dough by hand. Your arms will thank you!

Bread Machine Hot Cross Buns Recipe for Easter or Lent

Alright, Let's Get Baking!

So, you're convinced, and you're ready to give these Hot Cross Buns a try. Great! Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 300ml milk
• 50g butter
• 500g strong white bread flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 75g caster sugar
• 7g fast-action dried yeast
• 1 egg
• 100g mixed dried fruit
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice

For the crosses:

• 75g plain flour
• Water

For the glaze:

• 3 tbsp apricot jam
• 1 tbsp water

First, pop your milk and butter into your bread maker and set it to the 'dough' setting. While that's heating up, grab a bowl and mix together your flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Once the milk and butter are warm, add your egg and give it a good mix. Then, tip in your dry ingredients and set your bread maker to start kneading.

While the dough is doing its thing, mix together your dried fruit and spices in a separate bowl. Once the dough has been kneading for about 10 minutes, add your fruit and spice mix and let it continue to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Hot Cross Buns Recipe for the Bread Machine

Once the dough is ready, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a lined baking tray, leaving a little space between each one. Cover the tray with a clean tea towel and leave the buns to rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until they've doubled in size.

While the buns are rising, make your crosses. Mix together your flour and enough water to make a thick, pipe-able paste. Once the buns have risen, use a piping bag or a plastic bag with one corner snipped off to pipe crosses onto each bun.

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) and bake your buns for 20-25 minutes, or until they're golden brown. While they're baking, mix together your jam and water for the glaze. Once the buns are out of the oven, brush the glaze over the top and leave them to cool.

And there you have it - fresh, homemade Hot Cross Buns that are guaranteed to make your day a whole lot brighter. So, what are you waiting for? Get baking, and remember - sharing is caring!