Baked Goods > Bread > Sweet Breads > Hot Cross Buns

Maple and Walnut Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, for brushing

Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugars.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted butter, buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in the walnuts.
6. Scoop the dough into 12 equal portions and shape into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: 12 buns

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 200
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 4g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Granulated sugar: honey, agave nectar, or coconut sugar
- Light brown sugar: dark brown sugar
- Maple syrup: honey, agave nectar, or molasses
- Butter: coconut oil or vegan butter
- Buttermilk: almond milk or oat milk

Variations:
- Add dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries
- Add spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice
- Add orange or lemon zest

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing will result in tough buns.
- For a sweeter bun, brush with a mixture of melted butter and maple syrup before baking.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve warm with butter, honey, or jam.

Garnishes:
- Chopped walnuts
- Dried fruit
- Powdered sugar

Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Hot chocolate

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Yogurt
- Oatmeal

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the buns are too dry, add a tablespoon of buttermilk at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- If the buns are too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the buns is at least 190°F before serving.

Food History:
Hot cross buns are a traditional Easter treat that originated in the United Kingdom. They are usually served on Good Friday and are said to bring good luck.

Flavor Profiles:
These buns have a sweet and nutty flavor with hints of maple and vanilla.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve with butter, honey, or jam.

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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Maple, Buttery, Maple-Flavored