Spring is in the air, and what better way to celebrate than with a twist on the classic hot cross buns? Picture this: warm, fluffy buns filled with the rich essence of cocoa and a zesty kick of orange. These Chocolate Orange Hot Cross Buns are not just a treat; they’re an experience that will make your kitchen smell like a bakery and your heart sing with joy!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Buns:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk (warmed)
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp orange extract
- 1 cup mixed dried fruit (like raisins and currants)
- For the Crosses:
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup flour
- Water (to mix)
- For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp orange extract
Directions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This is your yeast coming to life!
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This is where the magic begins—imagine the rich chocolatey aroma filling your kitchen.
- Combine: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the melted butter, eggs, orange extract, and the frothy yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This is a great workout, and trust me, your buns will thank you later!
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Add the Fruit: Once risen, gently knead in the dried fruit. This adds a delightful burst of sweetness and texture.
- Shape the Buns: Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape them into buns. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are close but not touching.
- Second Rise: Cover the buns with a cloth and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Make the Crosses: Mix the cocoa powder and flour for the crosses with enough water to create a thick paste. Pipe or spread this mixture over the buns in the shape of crosses.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes until they are puffed and firm to the touch.
- Glaze: While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze by boiling sugar and water until dissolved, then stir in orange extract. Brush this glaze over the buns as soon as they come out of the oven for a shiny finish.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the buns cool slightly before digging in. Trust me, the combination of chocolate and orange is simply divine!
Share Your Creation!
Now that you’ve baked these delightful Chocolate Orange Hot Cross Buns, I can’t wait to hear how they turned out! Snap a photo and share it with friends or in the comments below. Let’s spread the joy of baking together!
Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and delicious aromas!
Also See: Hot Cross Buns Recipe
