Hot Cross Buns
I baked this plate of buns on a whim, before I decided on talking about buns in the blog, and I couldn't resist sharing with you.
So, in order to be fair, I'll share a recipe, too.
Makes 13 (a baker's dozen)
Put 1lb/450g of strong flour in a bowl - I'd recommend 2/3 white + 1/3 wholemeal, add a couple of tablespoons of sugar, some salt, about 6 oz of dried fruit (I use 2/3 sultanas 1/3 currants) and spice. I used about 2 tsp mixed spice and 1/2 each of allspice and cloves. Dissolve about a teaspoon of dried yeast (or use the fast yeast) in a cup of warm milk and add to the mix. Melt about 3 oz/75g of butter (make sure it is cool) beat in a large egg. Add to the mix and knead until doughlike and sticky (add a little water if necessary). leave to prove. Knock back and make up into buns. Leave to rise. Mix 1 tbsp oil with 2 of flour and some water, pipe into crosses. Bake in a hot oven for 5 minutes (220C or thereabouts) then reduce to 180 for 15. Take out of oven and glaze with honey with enough boiling water to make it brushable (2:1 Honey:water) Job done.
Even if you are not used to baking, can I urge you to give this a try? You will love it. I'm happy to answer any questions you may have. Read this and thought "I must thing about baking a bit more"? Checkout Breadchick
posted by Ham @ 12:18 am
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