No Knead Hot Cross Buns

Get ready folks, because today we’re diving deep into the world of No Knead Hot Cross Buns! These little delights are a traditional treat often enjoyed around Easter time, but they pack such a flavor punch that we reckon you’ll want to whip them up all year round. Sweet, spiced, and filled with juicy dried fruits – these buns are the epitome of comfort food. Imagine biting into a soft, warm bun with its deliciously sweet icing cross on top ��� it���s like a little package of joy right there! One bite and you’ll be hooked! Trust me. Making them knead-free just takes them to another level of awesome. Here’s why you’re going to love them.

This No Knead Hot Cross Bun recipe is pure magic, not only because they’re ridiculously tasty, but also because they’re super easy to make! No more muscle work to knead the dough as the secret lies in its slow rise. Now, who wouldn’t love that? Whether you���re serving them up for your Easter brunch, or just fancy a spot of weekend baking, these buns always hit the spot.

• Prep time: 1.5 hours (includes rising)
• Cook time: 20-25 minutes
• Total time: approx. 2 hours
• Servings: 12 buns
• Yield: 12 scrumptiously flavoured cross buns

Ok, enough chit chat, let’s get down to bun-ness!

Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tsp instant yeast
• 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup lukewarm milk
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup mixed dried fruit (currants, sultanas, etc.)
• For the Cross: 1/2 cup flour, 6 tbsp water
• For Glazing: 1/4 cup boiling water, 2 tbsp granulated sugar

You will also need some basics: a baking sheet, parchment paper, mixing bowls, a wire rack and piping bag.

The magic of these Hot Cross Buns lies in a beautiful combo of warming spices and dried fruits. The yeast is also vital, as it’s what provides those divine fluffy textures we all crave and love!

How To Make No Knead Hot Cross Buns

1. Mix together all dry ingredients including spices in a bowl. Now, make a well in the middle and pour in the lukewarm milk, melted butter, eggs, and dried fruit. Stir everything until combined and let it rest for an hour.
2. Preheat your oven and line the baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop out the dough into 12 equal parts and arrange them on the baking sheet. Leave them to rise for about half an hour.
3. While they’re rising, mix the flour and water for the cross to get a thick paste. Put this in a piping bag and pipe crosses on the rising buns.
4. Bake the buns until golden brown. While they’re baking, you can prepare the glaze by dissolving sugar in boiling water.
5. Brush the hot buns with the sugar glaze straight out of the oven and then cool them on a wire rack.

Tips For The Best Results

• Always use warm – not hot – liquid for the yeast. Overheating can kill it!
• Ensure the dried fruit is fresh and not overly dry, which can make your buns dry too.

Storage Tips

• Baked buns stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for about two days. They can be refrigerated for a week or frozen for up to a month.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry instant yeast?

A: Yes, you can. But remember to adjust the quantity as per guides available.

Q: Can I use other dried fruits?

A: Absolutely! Dried cranberries, apricots, or even candied orange peel work great.

Q: How do I know when the buns are done?

A: The buns will be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Q: What’s the ideal serving for these buns?

A: Hot cross buns taste perfect when slightly warmed and slathered with butter!

Q: Can I make these buns gluten-free?

A: You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. But note, the texture might slightly vary.

Nutritional Facts of No Knead Hot Cross Buns

No Knead Hot Cross Buns have about 250 calories per serving, with 5g of fat, 45g of carbohydrates, 3g fiber, 12g sugar, and 6g protein.

Give it up for No Knead Hot Cross Buns, a treat that’s guaranteed to make any day feel like a special occasion. They’re wonderfully tasty, insanely easy and utterly comforting. Need I say more? So why wait until Easter? Grab your mixers and let’s get baking! Trust me, you won’t regret it. Best enjoyed warm with a generous pat of butter. Happy Baking, folks!