Frequently Asked Questions
What are Deliciously Spiced Hot Cross Buns?
They are traditional spiced buns filled with raisins or candied fruit, marked with a cross and topped with a sweet glaze, typically served during Easter.
How many buns does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields between 18 to 24 equal-sized buns.
What is the calorie count for one bun?
Each bun contains approximately 110 calories.
What spices are used in this hot cross bun recipe?
The aromatic spices used include cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves.
Can I make these in a bread machine?
Yes, this recipe is specifically designed to be made effortlessly using a bread machine's dough setting.
What setting should I use on my bread machine?
You should select the 'Dough' setting to prepare the bun mixture.
At what temperature should the buns be baked?
The buns should be baked in a preheated oven at 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
How long do the hot cross buns need to bake?
The baking time is approximately 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
What kind of flour is required?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of all-purpose flour.
When should I add the raisins or candied fruit?
Incorporate them when the bread machine signals the appropriate time to add extra ingredients during the dough cycle.
How do I make the icing glaze?
Mix icing sugar, milk, and lemon juice until the consistency is smooth but slightly thick.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1/3 cup of melted butter.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 4g of fat.
How many grams of carbohydrates are in each bun?
There are 16.5g of carbohydrates per bun.
How much protein is in a single bun?
Each bun provides 1.5g of protein.
Does the recipe use whole eggs or just yolks?
The recipe uses one whole egg and one additional egg yolk, both beaten.
What size baking pan should I use?
A lightly greased 9x13 inch baking pan is recommended.
How long should the dough rise after shaping?
The dough balls should rise in a warm environment for about 1 hour, or until they have doubled in size.
How do I create the cross on the buns?
Use a sharp knife to carefully cut a cross shape into the top of each bun after the final rise.
Should the milk be cold when added to the bread machine?
No, the recipe specifies using 3/4 cup of warm milk.
What type of yeast is best for this recipe?
You can use 1 tablespoon of either instant or active dry yeast.
In what order should I add ingredients to the bread machine?
Add them in the specific order recommended by your bread machine's manufacturer.
What is the purpose of the lemon rind?
1 1/2 teaspoons of grated lemon rind are added to provide a bright, citrusy aroma to the dough.
Can I use fresh lemon juice in the glaze?
Yes, the glaze calls for 1/2 teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
How much sugar is in the dough?
The dough contains 6 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
What should I do after the dough cycle is complete?
Remove the dough from the machine and punch it down to release excess air before shaping.
How much space should be left between dough balls in the pan?
Leave about 1/2 inch of space between each dough ball to allow for rising.
Is it necessary to cover the buns while they rise?
Yes, cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel while they rise in a warm environment.
When should the icing be applied?
Drizzle the icing over the buns once they have been removed from the oven and allowed to cool slightly.
What is the best way to serve these buns?
They are best served warm, optionally with butter, and enjoyed with family and friends.