Hot Cross Buns

 Hot Cross Buns

This has been my tried and true recipe for Hot Cross Buns for many years.  I am certain you will agree it is worth the time and effort.

Ingredients:

1 pkg yeast

1/4 cup water

pinch of sugar

1 cup scalded milk, cooled to lukewarm

1/4 cup shortening

1/4 cup sugar 

1 teaspoon salt

1 well beaten egg

3 1/2 cups all purpose flour

2/3 cup currants

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions:

Place yeast in measuring cup with water and pinch of sugar and stir to mix well.  When bubbly it is proofed.

In a bowl add lukewarm milk, shortening,  sugar, salt, and stir to mix well.    Add milk and egg which have been mixed well.

Gradually add currents, cinnamon, and flour to form a soft dough.  Beat vigorously, cover and let rise in warm place till double in bulk.  (about 2 hours)   Turn out on lightly floured board

Form into buns and flatten slightly.  Brush top with beaten egg-white or milk.  Allow to rise till very light.  

Using a scissors, snip tops of buns to form a cross.

Bake in moderate oven 375*F,  25 to 30 minutes.

While hot, frost lightly with confectioners sugar icing.  Cool then make cross with more icing.  Makes 18 buns