A mascarpone cheese frosting makes this recipe for hot cross buns stand out from the bakery competition.
Eating hot cross buns is anEaster traditionthat’s filled with symbolism.
Find out why we eat hot cross buns at Easter including the meaning behind the recipe and its ingredients.
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We’re sharing our best hot cross bun recipe including our Test Kitchen’s secret ingredient for extra-creamy icing.
What Are Hot Cross Buns?
Each hot cross bun is scored with a crisscross or decorated with a cross made of icing.
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Why Do We Eat Hot Cross Buns at Easter?
The recipe is rooted in symbolism and superstition.
They are believed to bring good luck in the coming year.
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Some even hang hot cross buns in their kitchen for more luck and to help keep the space safe.
You’ll need to follow just a few simple steps to make your own.
Cover and let stand while making dough.
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In a large mixing bowl combine 2 cups of the flour, the yeast, cardamom, and cloves.
Add milk mixture to flour mixture along with eggs.
Beat with an electric mixer on low to medium speed for 30 seconds, scraping bowl constantly.
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Beat on high speed for 3 minutes.
Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
Knead in enough remaining flour to make a moderately soft dough (3 to 5 minutes total).
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Dough will be sticky.
Shape into a ball.
Place in a lightly greased bowl, turning once.
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Cover; let rise in a warm place until double (about 1 hour).
Chill dough 6 hours.
(Or omit rising time; chill dough 12 to 24 hours.)
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Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
Cover; let rest 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, lightly grease two baking sheets; set aside.
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Divide dough into 24 portions.
Gently shape each portion into a ball, tucking edges under to make smooth tops.
Place balls almost touching on prepared baking sheets.
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Cover; let rise until nearly double (1 to 1 1/2 hours).
In a small bowl combine beaten egg white and water; brush over rolls.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.
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Immediately remove buns from baking sheets.
Cool slightly on wire racks.
Drizzle a cross over each bun with icing.
Pass additional icing for dipping.
2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
