There’s something special about Easter baking. The scent of warm spices, the anticipation of that first bite and the comfort of a tradition passed down through generations. Few treats capture that feeling quite like freshly baked hot cross buns.
This Easter, we’re celebrating the joy of baking at home, and why a gas oven makes it even better.
Sourced: iStock
Why bake with gas?
Gas cooking offers precise temperature control and consistent heat, which is exactly what you want when working with enriched doughs like hot cross buns. The gentle, even heat helps the buns rise beautifully and bake to a soft, fluffy centre with a perfectly golden top.
Gas is reliable, responsive and ideal for baking something that deserves a little extra care.
Sourced: iStock
Classic Hot Cross Buns Recipe
Ingredients
For the buns:
- 3 ½ cups high-grade flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tsp mixed spice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 sachet) instant yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 50g butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, peel)
For the crosses:
- ½ cup flour
- 5–6 tbsp water
For the glaze:
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp water
Method
1. Make the dough
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, spices, salt and yeast. Add warm milk, melted butter and egg, then mix into a soft dough. Fold in the dried fruit.
2. Knead and rise
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and leave to rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
3. Shape the buns
Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal portions. Shape into balls and place snugly into a lined baking tray. Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.
4. Add the crosses
Mix flour and water into a thick paste. Pipe crosses over the buns.
5. Bake
Preheat your gas oven to 180°C. Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown. Gas ovens provide steady, even heat, helping the buns bake through without drying out.
6. Glaze
Heat sugar and water until dissolved, then brush over the warm buns for a glossy finish.
Serve and enjoy
Source: iStock
These buns are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, with a generous spread of butter. Whether shared over a family brunch or enjoyed with a quiet cup of tea, they’re a simple way to bring a little extra warmth to your Easter.
A tradition worth keeping
Baking hot cross buns is more than just following a recipe, it’s about creating moments. With the responsiveness and reliability of gas cooking, you can focus less on the process and more on the experience.
From our homes to yours, we wish you a warm and delicious Easter.
