Cranberry & Orange Hot Cross Buns
image/svg+xml Recipes Cranberry & Orange Hot Cross Buns

Cranberry & Orange Hot Cross Buns

We are all aware of the dietary advantages of berries, and cranberries are extraordinary in their health benefits. But occasionally we overlook in how many different ways they may be used when cooking. This tiny red berry pairs well with our favorite sweets, fits neatly into many salads, and is a vital component in many sauces. You may read more about the benefits of cranberries and their unique qualities on our website . Here is a recipe for a magnificent pastry that will spice up your dinner or make a nice complement to a cozy tea gathering.

For 12 average-sized buns:

  • 500 grams or 2 cups plain flour (plus a bit extra for kneading)
  • 250 ml or 1 cup milk (you can also use plant-based milk)
  • 100 grams dried U.S. cranberries
  • 50 grams butter, diced
  • 1 egg
  • Zest of 2 medium oranges
  • Juice of 1 medium orange
  • 1 tbsp (about 7 grams) fast-action dried yeast
  • 2 tbsp (about 14-15 grams) of your favorite spice or spice mix (try adding cinnamon or cardamom)
  • 100 grams caster (ultrafine) sugar
  • Seed oil, for greasing
  • Butter, to serve
  • 1 tsp salt

For the crosses and glazing:

  • 75 grams plain flour
  • Juice of 1 medium orange
  • 5 tbsp (about 40 grams) apricot jam

Cooking steps

Step 1

Put orange zest into a bowl and set aside. Place the dried cranberries and 75 milliliters of boiling water in another bowl with the orange juice and allow to soak.

Step 2

Pour the milk into a pan, add the butter, and put over low heat, stirring regularly, just until the butter melts. Remove the pan from heat and add the egg by hand.

Step 3

In a large bowl, combine the plain flour, yeast, sugar, mixed spices, and salt. Create a well in the flour and fill it with the milk mixture.

Step 4

Drain the cranberries and add them to the bowl with the orange zest. Then mix the dough until it sufficiently comes together to be handled without becoming overly sticky. To make the dough smooth and elastic, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes. As you knead, keep working the cranberries into the mixture. Add the dough to a bowl that has been lightly greased with oil, then seal it with plastic wrap. Leave in a warm location for an hour to rise.

Step 5

Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface when it has doubled in size. Get rid of all the big air holes by knocking it back by kneading for approximately a minute; this will result in excellent, even buns.

Step 6

Put the dough on baking sheets with parchment paper after dividing it into 16 equal pieces, rolling each piece into a ball. Cover the baking sheets with a plastic bag and allow the dough to continue to proof for another hour.

Step 7

Set the oven to 220°C. While it warms up, combine the plain flour with 5 tbsp water in a bowl, and stir until the mixture is sticky. Each raised bun should have a cross on it. To do this, spoon the mixture into a piping bag with a tiny aperture or use a 2mm nozzle to pipe crosses on each bun. Bake the buns until the tops are browned, about 20 to 22 minutes.

Step 8

Make the glaze while the buns are baking. The orange juice should be added to a pot along with the jam. Keep an eye on it the entire time and whisk it to prevent sticking. Bring to a boil over low heat, then simmer for 3-5 minutes. As soon as the buns are through cooking, place them on a wire rack and glaze them right away. Eat with butter after they cool. With a cup of tea, these delightful buns will bring you joy. Cranberry's sharp flavor pairs delightfully with citrus and butter. We are sure that this pastry will become one of your favorite desserts. Enjoy!

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