Hot Cross Buns are a beloved classic, steeped in tradition and flavor. This recipe, rooted in family tradition and innovation with mashed potatoes, promises a texture and taste that’s both unique and delightful. Let’s dive into the details to uncover the secrets behind these delightful treats.
Hot Cross Buns Recipe Details
Recipe Overview:
- Name: Hot Cross Buns
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Recipe Category: Yeast Breads
- Keywords: Breads, Grains, Healthy, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours
- Yield: 32 buns
Ingredients:
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Liquid Mixture:
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup milk
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Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mashed potatoes
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 1/4 cups raisins
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Flour:
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Nutritional Information (per bun):
- Calories: 151.8
- Total Fat: 3.8g
- Saturated Fat: 2.1g
- Cholesterol: 27.4mg
- Sodium: 134.5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27.1g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 11g
- Protein: 2.9g
Instructions:
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Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine yeast, warm water, and milk. Stir well and let it sit until foamy.
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Prepare the Dough: To the yeast mixture, add mashed potatoes, sugar, salt, butter, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and raisins. Mix until well combined.
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Incorporate Flour: Gradually add flour to the mixture, kneading the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1 1/2 hours or until doubled in size.
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Shape the Buns: Punch down the dough and divide it into 32 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on greased baking sheets, leaving space between each bun.
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Cross Marking: Using a sharp knife or scissors, snip a cross onto the top of each bun.
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Second Rise: Cover the buns again and let them rise for another 40 minutes.
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Egg Wash: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, whisk together an egg yolk and water. Brush this mixture gently over the risen buns.
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Bake: Bake the buns for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and let them cool on wire racks.
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Prepare the Icing: While the buns are cooling, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the icing.
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Finish and Serve: Once the buns are completely cool, drizzle the icing over the cross markings on each bun.
Tips for Success:
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Potato Magic: Using mashed potatoes in the dough adds moisture and a subtle richness to the buns, enhancing their texture and keeping them soft.
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Customization: If you prefer a different dried fruit or additional spices, feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences.
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Storage: Store leftover Hot Cross Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
Hot Cross Buns are not just a treat for Easter—they’re perfect for any occasion where you want to savor a bit of culinary history and homemade goodness. Enjoy these buns fresh out of the oven with a cup of tea or coffee, and share the joy of baking with family and friends.
