## Irresistible Hot Cross Bun Recipe Australia: A Delicious Guide to Making Perfect Buns

When it comes to traditional Australian Easter treats, nothing quite compares to the delightful aroma of freshly baked hot cross buns wafting through the ki……

When it comes to traditional Australian Easter treats, nothing quite compares to the delightful aroma of freshly baked hot cross buns wafting through the kitchen. This hot cross bun recipe Australia is not only easy to follow but also guarantees a batch of soft, spiced buns that are perfect for sharing with family and friends.

### The Allure of Hot Cross Buns

Hot cross buns are more than just a seasonal treat; they hold a special place in Australian culture. These sweet, spiced buns, adorned with a signature cross, symbolize the end of Lent and are often enjoyed with a generous spread of butter. The combination of currants, sultanas, and warming spices makes each bite a delightful experience.

### Ingredients You’ll Need

To create the perfect hot cross buns, gather the following ingredients:

- 4 cups of plain flour

- 1/4 cup of caster sugar

- 2 teaspoons of mixed spice powder

- 1 teaspoon of salt

- 2 teaspoons of instant yeast

- 1 1/2 cups of milk (warm)

- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter (melted)

- 1 large egg

- 1 cup of mixed dried fruit (currants and sultanas)

- For the cross: 1/2 cup of plain flour and water

- For the glaze: 1/4 cup of apricot jam

### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prepare the Dough**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the hot cross bun recipe Australia ingredients: flour, sugar, mixed spice powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

2. **Knead**: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Add the dried fruit during the last few minutes of kneading.

3. **First Rise**: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

4. **Shape the Buns**: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a lined baking tray, leaving a little space between each bun.

5. **Second Rise**: Cover the tray with a cloth and let the buns rise for another 30-40 minutes until they puff up.

6. **Create the Cross**: Mix the plain flour with a little water to form a thick paste. Transfer this mixture to a piping bag and pipe a cross over each bun.

7. **Bake**: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the buns for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

8. **Glaze**: While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze by gently heating the apricot jam until it’s liquid. Once the buns are out of the oven, brush them with the warm glaze to give them a beautiful shine.

### Enjoying Your Hot Cross Buns

Let the buns cool for a few minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm with butter, but you can also toast them for an extra crunch. This hot cross bun recipe Australia is perfect for Easter brunch, family gatherings, or simply as a delightful snack any time of the year.

### Conclusion

Baking hot cross buns is a wonderful way to embrace the festive spirit of Easter while enjoying the process of creating something delicious from scratch. With this hot cross bun recipe Australia, you’ll impress your loved ones and create lasting memories around the table. So roll up your sleeves and let the baking begin!