Hot Cross Bun Recipe Bread Maker

Alright, listen up, bread lovers! We're about to dive into a fun-filled, bun-baking extravaganza. You know those delicious, spiced, fruit-studded treats that pop up around Easter? Yep, we're talking about Hot Cross Buns! And guess what? We're going to make them in a bread maker. Yes, you heard it right. It's like having a tiny, magical baker in your kitchen.

First things first, what's the deal with Hot Cross Buns?

These buns aren't just any old baked goods. They're packed with history and folklore. Did you know they were first marked with a cross in the 14th century? And get this, it was believed that if you ate them on Good Friday, they would stay fresh for a whole year. Talk about a long-lasting treat!

Now, let's address the elephant in the room. Why are they called 'Hot' Cross Buns? Well, my friend, it's because they're best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven. The 'Cross' part? That's the mark on top, symbolizing the cross on which Jesus was crucified. It's a sweet treat with a meaningful story.

But why a bread maker, you ask?

Great question! Using a bread maker for Hot Cross Buns is like having a secret weapon. It does all the hard work for you - kneading, rising, baking. All you need to do is add the ingredients and press a few buttons. It's like having a tiny, kneading elf in your kitchen!

And here's a fun fact for you. Did you know that bread makers were first introduced in the 1980s? That's right, they've been around for over four decades, making bread baking accessible to everyone. No more kneading-induced hand cramps!

Now, let's get to the nitty-gritty. What do we need?

Here's a simple, no-fuss recipe for you. You'll need:

• 300ml warm milk
• 40g unsalted butter, melted
• 450g strong white bread flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 75g caster sugar
• 7g fast-action dried yeast
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp mixed spice
• 100g sultanas
• 50g mixed peel
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 apple, grated

For the cross, you'll need:

Bread Maker Hot Cross Bun Recipe - YouTube

• 75g plain flour
• 100ml water

And for the glaze:

• 3 tbsp apricot jam
• 1 tbsp water

Ready, set, bake!

Alright, let's get this bread-making party started! First, pop the milk, melted butter, flour, salt, sugar, yeast, egg, mixed spice, sultanas, mixed peel, orange zest, and grated apple into your bread maker. Select the 'Dough' setting and let the magic happen.

Once the dough cycle is complete, tip it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape them into balls. Place them on a lined baking tray, leaving space for them to rise. Cover with a damp tea towel and leave to rise for another hour.

While you're waiting, you can prepare the cross mixture. Mix the flour and water until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag or a plastic bag with a corner snipped off. Once the buns have risen, pipe a cross on each one.

Hot Cross Buns Recipe for the Bread Machine

Now, it's time to bake! Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or Gas Mark 6. Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.

While they're baking, prepare the glaze. Heat the jam and water in a small pan until melted. Brush the glaze over the buns as soon as they come out of the oven. This gives them a lovely shine and adds a touch of sweetness.

And there you have it!

Your very own, homemade Hot Cross Buns, fresh out of the oven. They're perfect for Easter, or any day you fancy a taste of history. So, go on, give it a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

And remember, bread making is a fun, hands-on activity. It's not just about the end result - it's about the journey, the kneading, the rising, the baking. It's about creating something delicious with your own two hands. So, get stuck in, and happy baking!