Eggless Hot Cross Buns
Hot Cross Buns are a delightful treats have been warming hearts and satisfying taste buds for centuries. But what if you’re looking for an eggless version? In this blog post, we’ll dive into how to make eggless Hot Cross Buns, exploring their history, sharing some handy tips and tricks, and even offering up some easy and tasty variations to try.
History of Hot Cross Buns:
Before we delve into the eggless hot cross bun version, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane to explore the origins of hot cross buns. These spiced sweet buns, adorned with a cross on top, are traditionally associated with Good Friday and Easter. The cross symbolizes the crucifixion of Jesus, however, hot cross buns have a history that predates Christianity, with ancient civilizations offering similar sweetened breads to their gods during spring festivals.
It can be found in many countries across the globe. In Guyana, it is made on Good Friday and enjoyed with a thick slice of cheese. Traditionally it’s made with raisins or currants and lots of warm spices. It can be made with or without eggs. Making eggless hot cross buns doesn’t mean compromising on flavor!
Why make it eggless?
Dietary Restrictions: Many people have dietary restrictions or choose to follow a vegetarian lifestyle that excludes eggs. By making eggless hot cross buns, you’re ensuring that everyone can enjoy this beloved treat, regardless of their dietary preferences or needs.
Allergies: Eggs are a common allergen, and for those with egg allergies, traditional hot cross buns can be off-limits. By omitting eggs from the recipe, you’re creating a safer option for individuals with allergies to enjoy without worry.
Cultural or Religious Reasons: In some cultures or religious traditions, eggs are avoided during certain times of the year or during specific holidays. By making eggless hot cross buns, you’re honoring these traditions and ensuring that everyone can partake in the festivities without compromising their beliefs.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Eggless Hot Cross Buns:
Now, let’s talk about how to make the perfect batch of eggless hot cross buns. Follow these tips and tricks, and you’ll be well on your way to baking success:
- Don’t skimp on the spices: The spices are what give hot cross buns their signature flavor, so be generous with them! Cinnamon and cloves are essential, but feel free to add other spices like cardamom, nutmeg or allspice.
- Knead, knead, knead: Proper kneading is key to developing the gluten in your dough and giving your buns that soft, fluffy texture. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Using a stand-up mixer with the hook makes this step easier.
- Let them rise twice: To ensure your buns are light and airy, let the dough rise twice: once after mixing and again after shaping. This allows the yeast to rise and create those lovely air pockets. Enriched doughs take longer to rise, so give it enough time to do so.
- Make a piping cross: Traditionally, the cross on top of hot cross buns is made with a simple flour and water paste. Pipe it onto the buns just before baking to give them that iconic look. You can also add a icing cross after the buns are baked and have cooled completely.
Variations to Try:
- Chocolate Chip Hot Cross Buns: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the dough for a decadent twist on the classic recipe.
- Orange and Cranberry Hot Cross Buns: Fold in some dried cranberries and orange zest for a burst of fruity flavor.
- Cherry and Cardamom: Add cardamom and substitute currants for dried cherries for a creative twist.
- Traditional Hot Cross Buns with an icing cross: Mix 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar with 2 tbsp milk until smooth. Pipe the cross onto the tops of the cooled hot cross buns. These are best eaten the same day.
Eggless hot cross buns are a delightful twist on a classic Easter treat. With a bit of creativity and know-how, you can whip up a batch that’s just as delicious as the original.
Get the Recipe Eggless Hot Cross Buns
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 tsp rapid rise yeast
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup milk
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/2 cup currants
Flour Paste
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 cup water
Glaze
- 1/3 cup water
- 2 tbsp sugar
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, cinnamon, and cloves. Set aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the milk for about 1 minute until warm but not hot (approximately 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit). Melt the butter and allow it to cool slightly.
- Add the warm milk, melted butter, salt and orange zest to the dry ingredients. Using a mixer with a dough hook attachment, beat on low speed for 10 minutes until the dough is smooth. The dough will be slightly sticky.
- Grease your hands or sprinkle a teaspoon of flour onto a clean surface to prevent the dough from sticking. Knead the dough into a ball and let it rise in a greased bowl for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces and shape them into balls. Place the balls in a greased baking pan, cover with a towel, and let them rise for 45 minutes or until almost doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
To make the cross:
- In a small bowl, combine the water and flour to form a paste. Transfer the paste into a piping bag and pipe crosses onto the buns.
- Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown. While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze.
To make the glaze:
- In a small pot, combine the water and sugar. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Once the buns are done baking, remove them from the oven and brush the tops with the prepared glaze while still hot.
- Serve warm.