As Easter approaches, the air is filled with anticipation and excitement! What better way to celebrate this joyous occasion than baking a batch of delicious hot cross buns with your little ones?
Join us on a culinary adventure as we share a scrumptious recipe that will delight kids and parents alike. Get ready to fill your home with the aroma of freshly baked goodies and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime!
Recipe: Hot Cross Buns
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup raisins or currants
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Zest of 1 orange
For the Crosses:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup water
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup apricot jam
Instructions:
- Combine flour, sugar, salt, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and orange zest in a large mixing bowl.
- Whisk together warm milk, melted butter, and egg in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes or until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and knead in the raisins or currants.
- Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Place them on a greased baking sheet, leaving some space between each bun.
- Mix the flour and water in a small bowl to form a paste. Transfer the paste to a piping bag and pipe crosses onto the buns.
- Cover the buns with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the buns for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the buns are still warm, heat the apricot jam in a small saucepan until melted. Brush the glaze over the buns.
- Allow the buns to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or toasted with a dollop of butter!
There you have it—your homemade hot cross buns, perfect for Easter celebrations with your loved ones! Prepare to create unforgettable memories in the kitchen as you bake a storm with your little chefs. From mixing and kneading to piping and glazing, every step is an opportunity for bonding and fun. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the Easter baking extravaganza begin! Happy Easter, from our kitchen to yours! ??? #SpringKidsEarlyLearningCentre
