The Good Friday Bun

All i knew about hot cross buns was that they would appear when Easter is nearing. But i’ve always been curious about them, so i finally took the liberty of looking up the history of these spiced buns.

The part that interest me most was the superstitions or virtues of these buns. From warding off evil by hanging them on kitchen ceilings to medicinal purposes. And my favorite, that friendship would be ensured when these buns are shared. With a saying that goes:  “Half for you and half for me, Between us two shall goodwill be“

The cross was originally said to be scored on with a knife. Which then proceeded to using short-crust pastry. It was only later that a paste of flour and water or icing was used. I would prefer the icing as it adds a little sweetness to them.

Hot cross buns

200g bread flour

3g salt

20g sugar

23g melted butter

7g yeast

17g milk powder

133g water

2g cinnamon

1g nutmeg

40g sultanas

20g citrus peel

*note: you’re free to add any other spices or dried fruits as you wish.

Icing

65g icing sugar

pinch of cinnmon (or other spices)

10g milk

• Using a dough hook attachment, mix the dry ingredients together then add the melted butter and water and mix on low for 2mins.
• Increase to medium speed and mix for 6mins.
• Add the sultanas and citrus peel and mix for another 2mins until combined.
• Place the dough on a lightly floured surface and portion to 30g pieces.(Again, it depends on how big you like them to be.
• Round them into tight balls and place them half the size of each bun between in a lightly greased pan with high sides.
• Cover with a cloth and allow to proof in a warm area.
• Preheat oven to 200C.
• When double in size, egg wash the buns and place in the oven, reducing the temperature to 180C. Bake for 15-20mins, or until a golden brown crust is formed.
• Remove from pan and allow to cool.
• Prepare the icing. Mix all the ingredients together and pipe onto the cooled buns.

This was my first time making these buns and i really enjoyed it. I love it when the air was filled with the smell of spices during baking. So comforting. It was also a great joy sharing these with my friends, maybe they do have magical properties afterall;) Catholic Cuisine has a very neat post on the history of these buns if you’re interested.

Have a blessed Good Friday!