Hot Cross Bun Bread Recipe

hot cross bun bread recipe

Craving the sweet and spicy flavors of hot cross buns but looking for a simpler alternative? Look no further than this hot cross bun bread recipe. This delicious twist on a classic Easter treat combines all the flavors you love in a convenient loaf form. Whether enjoyed toasted with butter for breakfast or as a snack, this hot cross bun bread is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

If you’re a fan of hot cross buns, you’ll love this hot cross bun bread recipe. The combination of warm spices, tangy dried fruit, and soft, fluffy bread is irresistible. Plus, this recipe is much easier to make than traditional hot cross buns, with no need for kneading or shaping individual buns. Simply mix, bake, and enjoy!

Ingredients:

– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup raisins or currants
– Zest of 1 orange

Instructions Step by Step:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk.
3. Add the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture and whisk to combine.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, then place it in a greased bowl and cover with a clean towel.
6. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
7. Punch down the dough and knead in the raisins or currants and orange zest.
8. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
9. Cover the pan with a clean towel and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes.
10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
11. Bake the hot cross bun bread for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
12. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
13. Optional: pipe a cross on top of the bread using a mixture of powdered sugar and water.
14. Slice and serve the hot cross bun bread warm or toasted with butter.

Tips:

Looking to add a twist to this recipe? Try swapping the raisins for chopped dried apricots or cranberries for a different flavor profile. You can also add a teaspoon of mixed spice for extra warmth.
Store any leftover hot cross bun bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the bread for up to 3 months and thaw as needed.
For a decadent treat, serve slices of hot cross bun bread with a dollop of clotted cream or cream cheese.

In conclusion, this hot cross bun bread recipe is a delightful and easy way to enjoy the flavors of traditional hot cross buns in a more convenient form. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy a slice of this delicious bread with your morning coffee or afternoon tea.