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Pão Doce de Páscoa: Hot Cross Bun

Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 12 pieces
Calories 250
Enjoy these traditional sweet Easter buns with a spicy cinnamon flavor and a shiny glaze, perfect for celebrating the holiday.

Ingredients

Dough

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
  • 1/3 cup sugar (cristal sugar)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant dry yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/3 cup crystallized fruit (or raisins)
  • 1 tablespoon orange peel (crystallized, chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon peel (crystallized, chopped)
  • 1 medium apple (cubed)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cross Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3-4 tablespoons water (to make paste)

Glaze

  • 1/4 cup apricot jam (diluted with water)

Instructions 

  • Mix flour, yeast, sugar, salt, butter, and egg. Add warm milk gradually, knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
  • Add remaining ingredients, mix until homogeneous. Let dough rise covered for 1 hour or until doubled.
  • Divide dough into 6-8 pieces, shape into balls, place on baking sheet, and let rise for another hour.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Mix flour and water to make cross paste, pipe crosses on buns.
  • Bake for 30 minutes until golden. Warm apricot jam and brush over buns for shine.

Notes

Ensure dough is not too dry or sticky for best results.
Calories: 250kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Portuguese
Keyword: Easter, sweet bread