Hot Cross Buns Citrus Glaze (Printable)

Soft spiced buns studded with dried fruit and topped with a zesty citrus glaze, ideal for spring gatherings.

# What You Need:

→ Dough

01 - 4 cups bread flour
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
04 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
09 - 1/2 cup water, lukewarm
10 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
11 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
12 - 3/4 cup mixed dried fruit (currants, raisins, chopped candied orange peel)
13 - Zest of 1 orange
14 - Zest of 1 lemon

→ Cross Paste

15 - 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
16 - 3 to 4 tablespoons water

→ Citrus Glaze

17 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
18 - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
19 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice

# How To Make It:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, ground cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute yeast and spices evenly.
02 - In a separate bowl, whisk together lukewarm milk, water, melted butter, and room temperature eggs until well combined.
03 - Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms, ensuring no dry flour remains.
04 - Add the mixed dried fruit, orange zest, and lemon zest to the dough. Knead by hand or with a stand mixer for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
05 - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour until doubled in volume.
06 - Turn the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Divide into 12 equal pieces and shape each into a smooth ball. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking tray with slight spacing between each bun.
07 - Cover the shaped buns loosely and allow to rise for 30 minutes until puffy. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375°F.
08 - Mix all-purpose flour with water to create a thick, pipeable paste. Transfer to a piping bag and pipe a cross pattern over each bun.
09 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the buns achieve a golden brown color and produce a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom.
10 - While buns are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, freshly squeezed orange juice, and lemon juice to create a smooth glaze.
11 - Brush the hot baked buns generously with citrus glaze immediately after removal from oven. Transfer to a wire rack to cool before serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Soft, tender buns with warm spices that evoke cozy feelings.
  • The mix of currants, raisins, and candied orange peel adds texture and bursts of flavor.
  • The citrus glaze adds a fresh zing that complements the sweetness perfectly.
  • Perfect for springtime gatherings and traditional celebrations.
02 -
  • Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for easier kneading and consistent results.
  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to help yeast activate properly.
  • Pipe the crosses with confident, steady pressure to achieve neat lines.
  • Brush the glaze while buns are hot for best absorption and shine.
  • Check the buns by tapping the bottom—it should sound hollow when perfectly baked.
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