Name: Hot Cross Cinnamon Buns Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 55 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 150 ml (½ cup + 2 tbsp) whole milk, lukewarm; 25 g (2 tbsp) caster sugar; 1.5 tsp dried active yeast; 500 g (3 ½ cups + 1 tbsp) strong white bread flour; 0.5 tsp salt; 1 tsp cinnamon; 0.75 tsp nutmeg; 0.5 tsp cloves; 75 g (¼ cup + 1 tbsp) unsalted butter, cubed; 150 g (½ cup + 2 tbsp) thick yogurt (Greek); 1 orange, zest only; 150 g (1 cup + 1 tbsp) mixed dried fruit; 50 g (3 tbsp + 2 tsp) unsalted butter, softened; 75 g (¼ cup + 2 tbsp) dark brown sugar; 2 tsp cinnamon; 50 g (¼ cup + 2 tbsp) mixed dried fruit; 60 g (¼ cup) cream cheese; 3 tbsp icing (powdered) sugar

Print Recipe·4 from 12 reviews

If you’re on the lookout for a comforting, warmly spiced treat that combines the best of two classic baked goods, this Hot Cross Cinnamon Buns Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine the tender, fluffy swirl of a cinnamon bun packed with fruity bursts and finished with that iconic cross—a perfect blend of tradition and indulgence that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a cozy bake, this recipe is an absolute joy to make and devour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows nine small white bowls and one clear glass bowl arranged on a white marbled surface. The clear bowl holds white flour, taking up most space in the bottom right. To its left, there is a white jug filled with a white liquid, and next to it is a small white bowl with thick white cream or yogurt. Above the jug there is a bright orange fruit, and to the top right, a white bowl filled with dark raisins mixed with golden bits. On the top row, from left to right, there are white bowls containing beige yeast granules, white sugar, and yellow butter cubes. Below them on the left side is a white bowl with ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. In the middle is a bowl with brown sugar. The scene is well-lit with soft natural light, creating gentle shadows and a clean, fresh look, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential to crafting cinnamon buns that are soft, aromatic, and richly flavored. Each one plays a key role in layering tastes and achieving that perfect texture and inviting color that makes these buns irresistible.

Whole milk (150 ml): Lukewarm to activate the yeast gently without killing it, crucial for that fluffy rise.
Caster sugar (25 g): Just the right sweetness to feed the yeast and add a touch of gentle sweetness to the dough.
Dried active yeast (1.5 tsp): The magical ingredient that makes your dough rise and become beautifully airy.
Strong white bread flour (500 g): Provides the structure needed for soft but sturdy buns that hold their shape.
Salt (0.5 tsp): Enhances all the flavors while balancing the sweetness perfectly.
Cinnamon (1 tsp): The warm, spicy aroma that defines this recipe’s signature flavor profile.
Nutmeg (0.75 tsp): Adds a subtle nutty depth that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Cloves (0.5 tsp): A pinch for an extra hint of warmth and complexity.
Unsalted butter (75 g, cubed): Rubbing into the flour to create a tender, flaky crumb in the dough.
Thick yogurt (150 g): Adds moisture and a slight tang, making the buns rich and tender.
Orange zest (from 1 orange): Lifts the flavors with fresh citrus brightness that cuts through the spice.
Mixed dried fruit (150 g): Little pockets of chewy sweetness that contrast fabulously with the soft dough.
Softened unsalted butter (50 g): For spreading inside the rolled dough to melt and meld the filling.
Dark brown sugar (75 g): Gives a deep caramel note to the cinnamon sugar filling.
Cinnamon (2 tsp): More warmth sprinkled generously inside the rolls.
Mixed dried fruit (50 g): Added to the filling for bursts of fruity goodness in every bite.
Cream cheese (60 g): The creamy base for the luscious frosting that pipes the iconic crosses.
Icing sugar (3 tbsp): Sweetens and lightens the frosting to a perfect consistency for piping.

How to Make Hot Cross Cinnamon Buns Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by mixing the lukewarm milk, caster sugar, and dried yeast together in a jug. Set it aside in a cozy warm spot for about 20 minutes until it’s frothy on the surface—this shows the yeast is awake and ready to make your dough rise beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough Base

While your yeast is working its magic, whisk together the flour and salt in a large bowl. Rub in the cubed butter until the mixture looks like breadcrumbs with no big lumps. This crumbly texture is key to a tender bun crumb once baked.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients and Knead

Create a well in the dry ingredients, then pour in the yeast mixture and yogurt. Slowly bring everything together into a dough ball. Knead it with your hands or a stand mixer until the dough feels soft and smooth—this should take around 10 minutes by hand or slightly less with a mixer.

Step 4: First Proof

Place the dough ball in a lightly floured bowl and cover it loosely with cling film. Leaving it somewhere warm lets it rise and double in size, which usually takes between 40 minutes to a couple of hours depending on your kitchen temperature.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

While your dough is rising, soften the butter for spreading and mix the brown sugar with cinnamon in a small bowl for the filling sugar blend—this sweet-spiced mixture will make the rolls shine with flavor.

Step 6: Roll and Fill the Dough

Once your dough has risen, gently punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about 1.5 cm thick. Evenly spread the softened butter, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mix, and scatter the dried fruit all over. Every bite will be like a little explosion of spice and chewy sweetness!

Step 7: Shape the Buns

Roll the dough tightly from one long side to form a log. Lay the log seam-side down, press the ends toward the center, then slice into twelve evenly sized spirals using dental floss or a sharp knife to keep those beautiful swirls intact.

Step 8: Second Proof

Place each spiral into an oven-safe dish, cover with a tea towel, and leave them to rise again until doubled in size. This step ensures your buns will bake up light and fluffy with that perfect oven spring.

Step 9: Bake and Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). You can brush the tops with a little beaten egg for a shiny, golden crust before baking. Bake the buns for 20 to 25 minutes until they’re a gorgeous golden brown and filling your kitchen with that incredible cinnamon aroma.

Piping the Signature Cross

While the buns are cooling, whip up the cream cheese frosting by mixing cream cheese and icing sugar until silky smooth. Fill a piping bag and create the classic hot cross bun crosses—this charming detail makes them instantly inviting and perfectly festive.

How to Serve Hot Cross Cinnamon Buns Recipe

A close-up top view shows a layer of light dough spread flat on a white marbled surface. Over the dough, there is a thick, even layer of brown crumbly sugar mixed with a generous amount of dark raisins and small pieces of yellow dried fruit, scattered evenly across the surface. At the bottom right, a woman's hand is gently touching the edge of the dough, adding a sense of interaction with the food. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of extra icing sugar or a drizzle of honey can elevate these buns. Fresh orange zest sprinkled on top adds a bright pop of color and citrus zing that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon-spiced sweetness.

Side Dishes

Serve these buns warm alongside a mug of spiced chai, coffee, or creamy hot chocolate. Fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt complements the richness and balances the spices beautifully, creating a well-rounded moment of bliss.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving each bun with a smear of softened butter or cream cheese. For a special twist, add a side of clotted cream or a cinnamon-infused whipped cream to really treat your guests to an unforgettable experience of warmth and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Hot Cross Cinnamon Buns Recipe leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keep them covered to retain moisture so they stay soft and inviting.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cooled buns individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months, so you can enjoy that fresh-baked feeling anytime you want.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or warm in the oven at low heat for about 5-10 minutes. Add a little butter before warming to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven softness and melt-in-your-mouth indulgence.

FAQs

Can I use dried fruit other than the mixed variety?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Hot Cross Cinnamon Buns Recipe by using raisins, currants, chopped dates, or even dried cherries—just ensure the fruit isn’t too large so it mixes well within each spiral.

What can I substitute for yogurt in the dough?

If you don’t have yogurt on hand, sour cream or buttermilk are great alternatives that maintain the dough’s moist and tender texture with a similar tangy depth.

Do I need to brush the buns with egg before baking?

The egg wash is optional but recommended if you like a glossy, golden-brown top that’s visually stunning. If you prefer, you can simply bake without it and still get delicious results.

How do I make sure my buns rise properly?

Keep the dough in a warm, draft-free space for proofing. Yeast loves warmth, so places like a proofing drawer, inside an oven with just the light on, or near a radiator work wonders for encouraging a good rise.

Can I make this Hot Cross Cinnamon Buns Recipe vegan?

With a few swaps like plant-based yogurt, vegan butter, and a flaxseed egg substitute for the egg wash, you can certainly make a vegan-friendly version that still delivers on taste and tenderness.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about homemade cinnamon buns, and this Hot Cross Cinnamon Buns Recipe brings a heartwarming twist that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. These spiced, fruity, and beautifully cross-topped buns are a lovely way to celebrate any moment or simply treat yourself to a cozy, sweet comfort. I can’t wait for you to try making these buns and enjoy every fragrant, soft, and delightful bite.