Apple Cider Hot Cross Buns
Traditional British Recipes

Apple Cider Hot Cross Buns

Baking
serves 12

These apple cider hot cross buns are soft, fragrant and gently spiced, with tender apple pieces folded through an enriched yeasted dough.

They bake with glossy tops and classic flour crosses, making them ideal for Easter baking and brilliant the next day split and toasted.

SnackEaster
30 mins prep20 mins cook2 hrs 50 mins total

  1. Mix the bread flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, mixed spice and yeast in a large bowl.

  2. Rub in the softened butter, then add the beaten egg, lukewarm cider and lukewarm milk.

  3. Mix to a shaggy dough, then knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

  4. Fold in the diced apple, sultanas and orange zest until evenly distributed.

  5. Cover and prove in a warm place for about 60–75 minutes, or until doubled in size.

  6. Knock the dough back and divide into 12 equal pieces, shaping each into a smooth bun.

  7. Arrange on a lined baking tray, cover loosely and prove again for 35–45 minutes until puffy.

  8. Heat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Mix the plain flour and water into a smooth paste and pipe crosses over each bun.

  9. Bake for 18–22 minutes until deeply golden and cooked through.

  10. Brush with warmed apricot jam while hot, then cool on a wire rack before serving.

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