Description
These Lemon Hot Cross Buns with Dried Blueberries are a fresh twist on the classic Easter favorite! With vibrant lemon zest, dried blueberries, and a hint of cinnamon and ginger, these soft and fluffy buns are perfect for breakfast, Easter brunch, or a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients
For the buns:
1 cup (236 ml) milk, warmed to 100-115°F (38-46°C)
4 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons instant dried yeast
4 cups + 2 tablespoons (525 grams) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
1 cup (150 grams) dried blueberries
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs, beaten, at room temperature
2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
For the crosses:
⅓ cup (46 grams) all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Warm water
For the glaze:
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Warm water
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar, then whisk in the instant dried yeast. Let it sit for 3-5 minutes until it starts to bubble.
2. Prepare the Dough:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and dried blueberries. Mix well.
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture, then add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and lemon zest. Stir with a spatula until the dough begins to come together, then use your hands to knead it into a large ball. The dough will be sticky at first. Transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough is ready when it stretches without tearing, and springs back slowly when pressed.
3. First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Buns:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal balls and shape each into a bun. You can use a scale to ensure even sizes. Place the buns closely together on the baking sheet and cover loosely with a towel. Let them rise for another 30 minutes, until doubled in size and touching.
5. Make the Crosses:
Mix the flour, sugar, and lemon zest for the crosses. Add just enough warm water to make a thick paste. Place the paste in a zip-top bag or piping bag, remove the air, and seal it. Snip a small corner off the bag and pipe a cross over the top of each bun.
6. Bake:
Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them, as baking time may vary depending on your oven.
7. Glaze the Buns:
Once the buns are out of the oven, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with a little warm water to make a syrupy consistency. Brush the glaze over the warm buns to give them a shiny finish.
8. Cool and Serve:
Allow the buns to cool on a wire rack. Serve warm, or store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes, wrapped in foil.
Notes
Storage Tips and Variations:
Make-Ahead: You can refrigerate the dough after step 4, or refrigerate the shaped buns in step 7. Allow them to come to room temperature before baking. Add the crosses just before baking.
Freezing: You can freeze baked buns for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Toppings and Variations: Serve with a dollop of clotted cream, jam, or honey butter. Try adding other dried fruits or spices to personalize the flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve Lemon Hot Cross Buns with Dried Blueberries warm with butter or as a sweet breakfast treat. They are also perfect for Easter brunch, afternoon tea, or as a special snack for family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: British