Spiced Hot Cross Buns Loaf
A soft and fluffy hot cross buns loaf with warm spices, citrus, and dried fruit. It's an easy, sliceable twist on the classic Easter favorite.
Equipment
- 9x5 Loaf Pan
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook
- Bench Scraper
- Piping Bag (or Zip-Top Bag)
- Kitchen Thermometer (Optional but Great) Helps ensure your milk is at the perfect temperature (around 110°F) so your yeast activates properly.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3½ cups bread flour
- 2¼ teaspoon active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup raisins or currants
Cross Topping:
- ½ cup flour
- 6 tablespoon water
Glaze:
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoon milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.2. Make the Dough
Add brown sugar, honey, eggs, spices, orange zest, and salt. Mix in flour gradually, then knead in butter until smooth and slightly sticky.3. Add the Fruit
Fold in raisins or currants evenly.4. First Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1½ hours until doubled.5. Shape the Loaf
Roll dough into a large rectangleCut into strips or squaresStack or layer loosely into a greased loaf pan for a pull-apart effect6. Second Rise
Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.7. Add the Cross
Mix flour and water into a thick paste. Pipe lines across the top to form a cross pattern.8. Bake
Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes until golden brown.9. Glaze
Brush or drizzle glaze over warm loaf for shine and sweetness
Notes
🩵 Recipe Notes
- Letting the loaf cool slightly helps it set before slicing
- Brushing with simple syrup instead of glaze gives a bakery-style shine
- This makes amazing French toast the next day.