There’s something truly special about the smell of freshly baked bread, especially when it’s warm and spiced just right. I remember the first time I made hot cross buns with my family during the Easter season. The joy of kneading the dough together and the excitement of waiting for them to rise filled our home with warmth. This recipe for Sourdough Hot Cross Buns matters because it combines tradition with the unique flavor of sourdough, giving a delightful twist to a classic treat. The soft, fluffy buns are studded with dried fruits and crowned with a sweet glaze, making them a perfect addition to any gathering. What makes this recipe special is the use of sourdough starter, which adds a subtle tang that enhances the flavors beautifully.
why make this recipe
Making Sourdough Hot Cross Buns is not just about enjoying a delicious treat; it’s about creating memories and connecting with traditions. Sourdough adds a depth of flavor and a nice texture that lends itself well to this beloved recipe. These buns are perfect for sharing with family and friends during holidays or any special occasion. Plus, using a sourdough starter gives a great twist to the traditional buns, allowing you to enjoy them with a unique richness.
how to make Sourdough Hot Cross Buns
Ingredients
- 2 cups sourdough starter
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup mixed dried fruit (e.g., raisins, currants)
- 1/4 cup candied orange peel (optional)
- For the cross: 1/2 cup flour, water
- For the glaze: 1/2 cup apricot jam
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, sugar, melted butter, and eggs. Mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and spices. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Fold in the mixed dried fruits and candied orange peel if using.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator.
- The next day, remove the dough and let it come to room temperature. Shape the dough into buns and place them on a greased baking sheet.
- Prepare the cross mixture by mixing flour with enough water to form a paste. Pipe this paste over each bun to create a cross.
- Cover the buns and let them rise for about 2 hours until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- While the buns are baking, heat the apricot jam until melted and strain.
- Once the buns are out of the oven, brush the top with the warm apricot glaze. Enjoy your homemade sourdough hot cross buns!
how to serve Sourdough Hot Cross Buns
Sourdough Hot Cross Buns are delightful on their own, but they are also great with butter or cream cheese. Serve them warm for breakfast or as a snack. They’re always a hit when enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for brunch gatherings.
how to store Sourdough Hot Cross Buns
Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each bun in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for about three months in the freezer.
tips to make Sourdough Hot Cross Buns
- Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for the best results.
- Knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten, which gives the buns their structure.
- Allow the buns to rise in a warm place to help them double in size.
- If you prefer a sweeter bun, you can increase the sugar slightly.
variation
Feel free to add different spices to suit your taste, such as ginger or cloves. You can substitute the dried fruits with chocolate chips or nuts for a different flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought sourdough starter?
Yes, store-bought sourdough starter works well for this recipe. Just ensure it’s active before using it.
2. How can I make the buns even fluffier?
Make sure to knead the dough well and allow enough time for the buns to rise. This will help create a lighter, airier texture.
3. Can I make these buns ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge. Shape the buns in the morning, let them rise, and then bake. This makes morning baking a breeze!
Sourdough Hot Cross Buns
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups sourdough starter Ensure it's active and bubbly
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar Increase for sweeter buns if desired
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup mixed dried fruit (e.g., raisins, currants)
- 1/4 cup candied orange peel (optional)
For the cross
- 1/2 cup flour
- water to form a paste
For the glaze
- 1/2 cup apricot jam Heat until melted
Method
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, sugar, melted butter, and eggs. Mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and spices. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Fold in the mixed dried fruits and candied orange peel if using.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator.
Baking
- The next day, remove the dough and let it come to room temperature. Shape the dough into buns and place them on a greased baking sheet.
- Prepare the cross mixture by mixing flour with enough water to form a paste. Pipe this paste over each bun to create a cross.
- Cover the buns and let them rise for about 2 hours until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- While the buns are baking, heat the apricot jam until melted and strain.
- Once the buns are out of the oven, brush the top with the warm apricot glaze.