Most think of the religious connotation associated with the hot cross bun (the cross is said to symbolize the crucifixion of Jesus Christ), but there’s also some superstition surrounding the pastry. English lore says that sharing the bun is supposed to ensure friendship with that person throughout the year, and that the buns may also protect those at sea against a shipwreck. The fact that they’re delicious is just an added bonus.
Serves 6
Prep time: 15 minutes (plus 1 1/2 hours of resting time for dough)
Cook time: 15 minutes
How to Prepare Hot Cross Buns
In a small mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Stir in butter, egg, sugar and salt. In a separate bowl combine 3/4 cup of the flour, raisins, cinnamon and cardamom. Add to the yeast mixture and mix well. Slowly stir in the remaining flour until a soft dough forms. Knead dough for about 4 to 6 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl (turning once to grease the top), then cover and store in a warm place until the dough has doubled in size. This should take about 1 hour.
Once risen, punch dough down and form into six 2-inch balls. Place on a greased baking sheet and using a paring knife make an “x” in the top of each bun. Cover again and let dough rise for another 30 minutes. You can preheat the oven to 375 degrees during this time.
Wisk egg yolk and water together and brush over the top of each bun.
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire racks.
For icing: Whisk ingredients and drizzle over warm buns.
