Hot Cross Buns Recipe Bread Machine

Hey there, bakers! Ready to add a touch of Easter magic to your kitchen? Today, we're going to tackle a classic with a modern twist - Hot Cross Buns, but with the help of our trusty bread machine. No more kneading, no more waiting, just delicious, spiced buns ready to fill your home with warmth and joy. Let's dive in!

Gather Your Ingredients

First things first, let's round up what we need. You'll need:

• 300ml milk
• 450g strong white bread flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 75g caster sugar
• 7g fast-action dried yeast
• 50g unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg
• 75g mixed dried fruit (raisins, sultanas, cranberries - whatever tickles your fancy)
• 1 tsp mixed spice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Zest of 1 orange (optional, but it adds a lovely citrus kick)

Mix and Match

Now, pop your bread machine pan into the machine and add the milk, flour, salt, sugar, yeast, butter, egg, dried fruit, mixed spice, cinnamon, and orange zest (if using). Give it a quick mix with a spoon to combine.

Select the 'Dough' setting on your bread machine and let the magic happen. While the machine does its thing, you can sit back, relax, and maybe even put your feet up. You've earned it!

Time for the Cross

Once the dough cycle is complete, tip the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into 16 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Place the balls onto a lined baking tray, leaving a little space between each bun. Cover with a clean tea towel and leave to rise for about 45 minutes, or until they've doubled in size.

While you're waiting, let's make the crosses. Mix 75g plain flour with 5-6 tbsp water until you have a smooth paste. Spoon the paste into a piping bag (or a plastic food bag with a corner snipped off) and pipe crosses onto the risen buns.

Hot Cross Buns Recipe for the Bread Machine

Bake and Glaze

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or Gas Mark 6. Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. While they're baking, mix 2 tbsp apricot jam with 1 tbsp water to make a glaze. Brush the glaze over the warm buns as soon as they come out of the oven.

And there you have it! Your very own Hot Cross Buns, made with minimal effort and maximum fun. They're perfect for breakfast, elevenses, or even as a sneaky afternoon snack. So go on, give it a try. Your taste buds (and your kitchen) will thank you!

Remember, baking is all about having fun and expressing yourself. Don't be afraid to experiment with different fruits, spices, or even add a drizzle of icing on top. The sky's the limit! So, grab your apron, turn on that bread machine, and let's get baking!