Hot Cross Buns

MAKES: 2 dozen

PREP: 1 Hr 20 Min

COOK TIME: 12 Min

Whether you're serving up these delectable Hot Cross Buns at brunch or having them for a special occasion, chances are everyone is going to indulge in seconds! These buns are sticky, sweet, and always a hit! Plus, this recipe makes 2 dozen, so you're able to feed a large gathering!

What You'll Need

4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/4 cup plus 3 tablespoons milk. divided
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/3 cup granulated sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt
3 eggs
1/4 cup raisins
2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

What to Do

Coat a medium bowl and 2 baking sheets with cooking spray; set aside.
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, yeast, and cinnamon; mix well. In a small saucepan, heat 3/4 cup milk, oil, granulated sugar, and salt just until warm. Add milk mixture to flour mixture. Add eggs and beat with an electric beater on low speed 30 seconds, scraping down sides of bowl as necessary. Increase speed to high and beat an additional 3 minutes.
Stir in raisins and remaining 2 cups flour to form a soft dough. Shape into a ball and place in coated medium bowl, turning to coat dough on all sides. Cover and place in a warm place to rise 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Place on a lightly floured surface, punch down, and divide into 24 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a small ball and place 1-1/2 inches apart on coated baking sheets. Cover and allow to rise in a warm place 30 minutes or until doubled in size. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until golden. Allow to cool.
In a small bowl, combine confectioners' sugar, vanilla, and remaining 3 tablespoons milk; mix well. Spoon into a small resealable plastic storage bag. Cut a small corner off bag and make a cross with confectioners' sugar mixture on each bun. Serve, or cover until ready to serve.

Test Kitchen Tip

There's no "buns" about it! If you love our Hot Cross Buns, then you have to try our Chocolate Nut Cinnamon Buns or these classic Food Court Cinnamon Buns!
Need some amazing brunch ideas? Check out our Pomegranate Sunrise and our Disappearing Stuffed French Toast!
What do you think of this recipe? Let us know in the comments below!