Sweet & salty hot cross buns

Hot cross buns are a springtime staple, and whether you're looking to make them around Easter or for a picnic on a lovely day out, we've got the recipe for you. Sweet, savoury, and full of flavour, these tasty treats are ready to be devoured. Plus, they can be made for vegetarians or meat eaters, depending on how you top them!

Servings

6 buns

Ingredients

Equipment

Baking tray
Cling film or tea towel
Large mixing bowl
Measuring jug
Spatula or spoon

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Prep time is 30 minutes and proofing time is 1.5 hours

Method

Step 1

Place the warm water, instant yeast and 1 tsp of sugar in the measuring jug and stir to dissolve. Set to one side.

Step 2

In the large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, mixed herbs, caster sugar and salt.

Step 3

Make a well in the centre, pour in the activated yeast, milk, melted butter and beaten eggs.

Step 4

Bring together with a spatula or spoon to form a loose, sticky dough ensuring everything has been mixed in thoroughly. Cover with cling film or a damp tea towel and leave in a warm place to rise for at least an hour.

Step 5

Once the dough has proofed (doubled in size), knock it back and tip it out onto a lightly floured surface. Bring it together with your hands, and use more flour if needed to form into a smooth ball.

Step 6

Divide the dough into 6 equal portions, shape each portion into a ball and place on the baking tray, leaving about an inch between each one to allow for expansion.

Step 7

Cover with cling film or a damp tea towel and leave to proof for a further 30 minutes at room temperature.

Step 8

At around the 20-25 minute mark, preheat your oven to 170°c (fan). This is the point at which you top the buns, if using bacon, lay two rashers of streaky bacon in a cross fashion on top of each bun. If using halloumi, cut strips and use two per bun to form the crosses.

Step 9

Bake for 25-30 minutes until risen, golden and sound hollow when tapped.

Step 10

Brush with maple syrup while hot then allow to cool slightly before serving with softened butter.