Ultimate 9-Bun Soft Hot Cross Buns Recipe (So Fluffy & Spiced!)

Soft Hot Cross Buns – Pillowy Perfection with a Spiced Twist

There’s nothing quite like the comforting smell of soft hot cross buns baking in the oven—those sweet, spiced notes and the irresistible golden tops marked with their signature cross. This recipe delivers everything you want in a homemade hot cross bun: light and fluffy dough, just the right amount of sweetness, and juicy raisins tucked into every bite.

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Why You’ll Love These Soft Hot Cross Buns

These buns are all about texture and aroma. The dough is enriched with milk, sugar, and egg, giving it an ultra-soft, almost brioche-like quality. A gentle mix of cinnamon and allspice creates a warm, fragrant bite, and the raisins bring that juicy pop of sweetness.

🍞 Ultra fluffy and tender
🍞 Spiced to perfection with cinnamon and allspice
🍞 Naturally beautiful with a glossy finish and signature flour cross

They’re perfect for Easter, but honestly? They’re welcome at my table any time of year.

Ingredients Soft Hot Cross Buns

• 325g (2 ½ cups) all-purpose flour
• 150ml (½ cup + 2 tbsp) whole milk, warm
• 50g (¼ cup) granulated sugar
• 2 tsp instant yeast
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground allspice
• ¾ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 45g (3 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
• 100g (⅔ cup) raisins or currants

For the flour cross:

• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3–4 tbsp water (to make a paste)

For the glaze:

• 2 tbsp apricot jam or honey (optional)

Necessary Tools for Preparation

• Mixing bowls
• Stand mixer or spoon for mixing
• Kitchen scale or measuring cups
• Baking tray
• Piping bag (for crosses)
• Small saucepan (for glaze)
• Plastic wrap or clean towel

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: Warm the milk (not too hot!) and mix it with sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. Make the dough: Add flour, spices, salt, egg, and softened butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Knead by hand or mixer for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Add raisins: Gently fold in raisins or currants.
4. Let it rise: Cover and rest the dough in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the buns: Punch down the dough, divide into 9 equal pieces, and roll into smooth balls. Place on a lined baking tray in a 3×3 grid.
6. Second rise: Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
7. Make the cross: Mix flour and water into a paste. Pipe a cross on each bun using a piping bag.
8. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–22 minutes, until golden brown.
9. Glaze (optional): Warm jam or honey and brush over the buns while still warm for a shiny finish.

Tips for Perfecting the Recipe

• Use instant yeast to skip proofing steps—easy and reliable.
• Don’t over-knead once raisins are added, or they’ll break.
• Let dough rise in a warm, draft-free area (an off oven with the light on works great).
• The glaze adds a gorgeous shine but is totally optional.

What to Serve With It

Serve these warm with:

• A pat of salted butter
• Fresh fruit and tea for breakfast
• A drizzle of honey or clotted cream for a treat

Try pairing it with Cheese bread or Cheddar cheese quick bread for a full bakery-style spread!

Storage Instructions

• Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F or microwave for 10 seconds.

General Information About Soft Hot Cross Buns

These hot cross buns are made with enriched dough, so they stay softer longer. Great for Easter, brunch, or simply adding something special to your weekend.

FAQ

Can I make them the night before?
Yes! Shape the buns, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temp before baking.

Can I use a different dried fruit?
Definitely—dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or sultanas work beautifully.

No piping bag for the crosses?
No problem! Use a zip-top bag with a small snip in the corner.

Can I skip the glaze?
Absolutely. They’re just as delicious with a matte finish.

Conclusion

These soft hot cross buns are the perfect combination of tradition and comfort. Whether it’s Easter morning or a chilly Sunday, a warm bun with butter and tea feels like home. Give them a try and tag @poulefrecipe on Pinterest—I’d love to see your golden bakes!

More bakes you’ll love from Poulef.com:

• Easy butter cake
• Mom’s sour cream coffee cake
• Easy homemade white bread

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