Hot Cross Buns with Candied Fruit: 5 Simple Steps to Bliss

Name: Hot Cross Buns with Candied Fruit: 5 Simple Steps to Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 500g strong white flour; 75g sugar; 10g salt; 10g mixed spice powder; 10g instant yeast; 300ml milk; 50g butter; 1 large egg; 150g candied fruit; 50g currants; 1 egg (for egg wash)

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Oh, let me tell you about hot cross buns with candied fruit! These delightful little gems are not just a treat; they’re a tradition that warms my heart every Easter. There’s something so special about the aroma of spiced dough baking in the oven, filling the house with the scent of cinnamon and citrus. I remember the first time I baked them with my grandmother; it felt like magic as we shaped the dough and scored the crosses on top. The way they puff up in the oven and turn golden brown is simply irresistible. Trust me, once you take a bite of these soft, sweet buns, with the chewy bits of candied fruit bursting in your mouth, you’ll understand why they hold a special place in so many people’s hearts. They’re perfect for sharing, whether at a festive gathering or a cozy breakfast. Just make sure to serve them warm with some butter – pure bliss!

hot cross buns with candied fruit - detail 1

Ingredients for Hot Cross Buns with Candied Fruit

Ready to gather your ingredients? Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious hot cross buns:

500g strong white flour – This gives the buns that perfect structure and chewy texture.
75g sugar – Just the right amount of sweetness to balance the spices.
10g salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your buns.
10g mixed spice powder – A blend of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg that makes these buns feel festive.
10g instant yeast – This is what helps our dough rise beautifully!
300ml milk – Warmed, it helps activate the yeast and makes the dough soft.
50g butter – Melted for richness and flavor. Trust me, it makes a difference!
1 large egg – Adds richness and helps bind everything together.
150g candied fruit – These colorful bits add a lovely sweetness and chewy texture.
50g currants – A classic addition that pairs perfectly with the candied fruit.
1 egg (for egg wash) – This will give your buns that gorgeous, shiny finish.

Gather these ingredients, and let’s get ready to bake some magic!

How to Prepare Hot Cross Buns with Candied Fruit

Let’s dive into the joy of making these hot cross buns! Follow these steps, and you’ll have warm, spiced buns that are perfect for sharing. Trust me, the smell alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by warming the milk in a saucepan over low heat until it’s just lukewarm, about 37°C (98°F). Then, melt the butter right into the warm milk. This combo is key for a soft dough!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strong white flour, sugar, salt, and mixed spice powder. Give it a good stir to mix those lovely spices throughout.
Now, sprinkle the instant yeast over the flour mixture. Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients and pour in the warm milk mixture along with the egg.
Mix everything until it comes together into a sticky dough. Don’t be shy! Get in there with your hands and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back when poked.
Place your kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp tea towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release the air, then fold in the candied fruit and currants until evenly distributed.
Shape the dough into 12 equal-sized buns and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover again and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F). Just before baking, brush the tops of each bun with the egg wash and score a cross on top using a sharp knife.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool on a wire rack before serving!

And there you have it! The process is simple, and the results are absolutely delightful. Just wait until you take that first warm bite!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for these delicious hot cross buns with candied fruit. Remember, these values are approximate, but they give you a good idea of what you’re biting into!

Serving Size: 1 bun
Calories: 210
Total Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 36g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 5g

These buns are a delightful treat, and knowing the nutritional info can help you enjoy them even more guilt-free! Perfect for that special occasion or just a cozy afternoon snack.

Tips for Success

Making hot cross buns with candied fruit can be a breeze if you keep a few handy tips in mind. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a world of difference!

Use Fresh Yeast: If you can, opt for fresh yeast instead of instant. It can give your buns a lovely rise and fluffiness that’s hard to beat!
Don’t Rush the Rise: Patience is key! Letting the dough rise until it’s doubled in size is crucial. If it’s not rising well, check your yeast—old yeast can be a party pooper!
Warm Environment: Find a cozy spot for your dough to rise. A warm, draft-free area is perfect! If it’s chilly in your kitchen, try placing the bowl in the oven (turned off, of course) with just the light on.
Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can be sneaky! Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s at the right temperature before you bake. You want those buns to turn golden, not burnt!
Egg Wash for Shine: Don’t skip the egg wash! It gives your buns that beautiful, shiny finish. Just brush it on gently before baking, and you’ll be rewarded with a lovely crust.
Cool Before Serving: Let your buns cool on a wire rack. This helps them firm up a bit and prevents them from getting soggy on the bottom. Plus, the smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the most delicious, spiced hot cross buns ever. Happy baking!

Variations of Hot Cross Buns

Now, let’s have some fun with variations! Hot cross buns are so versatile, and you can easily switch things up to suit your tastes or the seasons. Here are some delightful ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Different Spices: Instead of mixed spice powder, try using cinnamon and ginger for a bolder flavor, or even add a pinch of cardamom for a unique twist!
Chocolate Chips: For a sweet surprise, fold in some chocolate chips along with the candied fruit. The melty chocolate will be a heavenly addition!
Different Fruits: Swap out the candied fruit for dried apricots, cranberries, or even raisins for a different flavor profile. Each fruit brings its own sweetness and texture!
Nuts: Add some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. They add a lovely texture and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the spiced dough.
Glaze Variations: Instead of the traditional icing, try a maple syrup glaze or a simple lemon glaze for a fresh, zesty finish after baking.
Savory Buns: Feeling adventurous? Make a savory version by omitting the sugar and spices, and instead, add herbs like rosemary or thyme, along with some cheese. Perfect for a brunch spread!

These variations can keep your hot cross bun game fresh and exciting! I love experimenting with different combinations, and you might just find a new favorite along the way. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions

Alright, so you’ve baked these scrumptious hot cross buns with candied fruit, and now it’s time to think about how to serve them. Trust me, the right accompaniments can elevate your buns to a whole new level of deliciousness!

First off, a generous spread of butter is a must! I love slathering on a thick layer of creamy, salted butter while the buns are still warm. The way it melts into the soft bread is pure heaven! If you’re feeling a bit fancy, you could also try flavored butters, like honey or cinnamon butter, which adds a delightful twist.

Next up, jams or preserves make a fabulous pairing! A dollop of strawberry, apricot, or even an orange marmalade complements the sweet spiced flavor of the buns beautifully. You might just find yourself diving back for seconds!

And let’s not forget about beverages! These buns are fantastic with a steaming cup of tea or coffee. I personally love a nice chai latte, which pairs wonderfully with the spices in the buns. For something a bit more festive, you could serve them with a glass of mulled wine or spiced apple cider, especially around Easter or during the colder months.

So, whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful afternoon snack, these serving suggestions will surely make your hot cross buns unforgettable! Enjoy every bite!

FAQ About Hot Cross Buns with Candied Fruit

Got questions about making these delightful hot cross buns? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up, along with my trusty answers:

How should I store my hot cross buns?

To keep your buns fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, you can freeze them! Just wrap each bun tightly in plastic wrap and pop them in the freezer, where they’ll last for about 2 months.

How can I tell when my buns are done baking?

Your buns are perfectly baked when they turn a gorgeous golden brown and sound hollow when you tap the bottom. If you have a kitchen thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 90°C (194°F) for that lovely, soft texture!

Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just make sure to cover it tightly! When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping into buns and proceeding with the second rise.

What if I can’t find candied fruit?

No worries! If candied fruit is hard to come by, you can substitute it with chopped dried fruit like apricots, cherries, or even raisins. They’ll give a lovely sweetness and work beautifully in the recipe!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of strong white flour?

You can, but keep in mind that whole wheat flour will make the buns denser. If you want to use it, I recommend mixing half whole wheat flour with half strong white flour for a lighter texture while still getting that nutty flavor!

With these answers in hand, you’re all set to bake the best hot cross buns with candied fruit ever! Happy baking, and enjoy every bite!

You might also like it

Spanish Tortilla Inspired Quiche with Hashbrown Crust Bliss

Easy Sausage Muffins: 5 Savory Delights for Breakfast

Easy Bundt Cake Breakfast Recipe That Will Delight You

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.