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Hot Cross Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

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4.4 from 3 reviews

These Hot Cross Cinnamon Rolls combine the traditional flavors of hot cross buns with the soft, fluffy texture of cinnamon rolls. Infused with warming spices, orange zest, raisins, and dried cranberries, these rolls are perfect for an Easter brunch or any special occasion. Topped with a sweet orange glaze and a delicate vanilla cross, they are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

  • 4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 package)
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon allspice
  • 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup milk
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries (currants or more raisins)

Filling Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup butter (softened)
  • 2/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon

Icing Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (divided)
  • 1/4 cup orange juice (more as needed)
  • 3/4 teaspoon vanilla (divided)

Instructions

  1. Make the Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, allspice, and nutmeg until well combined. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, warm the milk and melt the butter until the mixture reaches 110°-115°F. Pour the warm milk mixture into the flour mixture along with the eggs. Fit the mixer with the paddle attachment and mix until incorporated and no lumps remain. Switch to the dough hook and mix on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky. Alternatively, knead by hand on a floured surface for about 10 minutes.
  2. Add Flavorings: Add the orange zest, raisins, and dried cranberries to the dough. Knead until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  3. First Proof: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 30-45 minutes or until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare Filling: While the dough is proofing, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon together until a smooth paste forms. Set aside.
  5. Roll Out Dough: Generously flour your work surface and roll out the dough into a 20×14-inch rectangle using a rolling pin.
  6. Spread Filling: Using an offset spatula, evenly spread the cinnamon sugar butter all over the dough, reaching all edges.
  7. Shape Rolls: Starting at the long edge nearest you, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Using a serrated knife, gently cut the log into 12 equal rolls.
  8. Second Proof: Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish and line the bottom with parchment paper. Arrange the rolls about 2 inches apart in the dish, slightly offset. Cover with plastic wrap and let them proof in a warm spot for 20-30 minutes, until puffy.
  9. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22-28 minutes until golden brown on top. Start checking at 20 minutes to avoid overbaking. The rolls are done when a toothpick comes out clean except for some cinnamon.
  10. Prepare Glaze and Ice: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/4 cup orange juice, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla until smooth. Spread the glaze evenly over warm rolls and allow to cool completely.
  11. Add Crosses: In the same bowl, whisk the remaining 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons orange juice, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla until smooth. Transfer to a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with a small corner cut off. Pipe cross shapes on top of the fully cooled rolls to finish.

Notes

  • Ensure milk and butter mixture is warm (110°-115°F) to activate yeast without killing it.
  • You can substitute dried currants for cranberries if desired.
  • Make sure the dough is slightly sticky, not dry, for best texture.
  • Proofing times may vary depending on room temperature; dough should double in size.
  • Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best citrus flavor.
  • Check rolls early during baking to prevent overbaking and drying out.
  • The icing can be adjusted for consistency by adding more or less orange juice.

Find it online: http://bitezly.com/hot-cross-cinnamon-rolls-recipe/