Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup chopped dates
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Small bowl
- Whisk
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, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and brown sugar. Mix until combined.
3. Add the pecans and dates and mix until evenly distributed.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, honey, and egg.
5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until just combined.
7. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape into balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet.
8. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup of flour and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix until a paste forms.
9. Using a pastry brush, brush the paste onto the tops of the buns.
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: 12 buns
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 200
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with whole wheat flour.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with coconut sugar.
- Pecans can be substituted with walnuts.
- Dates can be substituted with raisins.
- Butter can be substituted with coconut oil.
- Milk can be substituted with almond milk.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries for a tart flavor.
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped apples for a sweet flavor.
- Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder for a chocolate flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to not overmix the dough, as this will result in tough buns.
- For a crispier bun, brush the tops with melted butter before baking.
- For a sweeter bun, brush the tops with a mixture of honey and melted butter 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 5-10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the buns warm with butter and honey.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pecans and dates.
Pairings:
Pair with a cup of coffee or tea.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of scrambled eggs or a fruit salad.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the buns are too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to the dough.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store the buns in an airtight container and consume within 3 days.
Food History:
Hot cross buns are a traditional Easter treat that date back to the 12th century.
Flavor Profiles:
Sweet and nutty with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a snack or as part of a brunch spread.
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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Spiced, Caramelized, Aromatic