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Hot Cross Bun Sally Lunn

A delightful twist on the classic hot cross bun, enriched with spices and dried fruits, perfect for special occasions or cozy weekends.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: British
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 2 tsp active yeast This will help your dough rise to fluffy perfection.
  • 1 cup milk, warmed Creamy and comforting, warmed milk enriches the dough.
  • ½ cup brown sugar Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
  • 3 cups plain flour The foundation of your loaf.
  • 1 tsp cinnamon An aromatic spice.
  • 1 tsp mixed spice Enhances overall flavor.
  • 50 g butter, melted Adds richness and moisture.
  • 1 whole egg Gives the bun texture.
  • 1 cup dried fruit A mix of sultanas, raisins, apricots, and currants.
For the Icing
  • 30 g butter, softened For the luscious icing.
  • 1 cup icing sugar Perfect for a delightful glaze.
  • 2 tbsp milk Adds smoothness to your icing.
  • 2 tbsp desiccated coconut Enhances overall appearance and flavor.

Method
 

Preparing the Yeast Mixture
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the yeast, warm milk, and 1 tsp of brown sugar. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface.
Making the Dough
  1. In the bowl of a mixer, combine 2.5 cups of plain flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and mixed spice. Whisk together.
  2. Pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, and the egg. Mix on low speed with a dough hook, scraping down sides as needed.
  3. Gradually add the remaining ½ cup of flour while on medium speed. Mix for about 5 minutes until smooth.
Adding Fruit and First Rise
  1. Gently fold in the dried fruit on low speed until evenly distributed. Cover with a tea towel and let rise in a warm area for 1 hour, or until doubled.
Shaping and Second Rise
  1. Once risen, shape the dough into a loaf and place on a lined baking tray. Allow it to rise for an additional 20 minutes while preheating your oven to 180ºC.
Baking the Loaf
  1. Bake for approximately 35 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Icing
  1. Use the whisk attachment to beat together softened butter, icing sugar, and milk until smooth and thick.
Finishing Touches
  1. Once cooled, spread the icing over the top and sprinkle with desiccated coconut.
  2. Slice thickly and serve warm with butter.

Notes

For best results, ensure your milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast. Try using different dried fruits based on your preference. Kneading is vital for a smooth, elastic dough.