1 Hay Penny 2 Hay Penny - Hot Cross Buns

An Ostara necessity, symbolizing the 4 quarters of the moon. Granted, I am a little late for Ostara, but these have also become a staple for Good Friday, being marked with a cross symbolizing the crucifixion, as well. The term "Hot Cross Buns" does not appear in print until 1733. However, this spiced, fruited, rich, yeasted sweet bun can be dated back, not only to the pre-Christian Saxons of Britain, but as far back as the ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian religious celebrations. Bread seems to be a common theme running through the ages.

As a side note, it is good luck to share your bun with a friend, following the old adage "Half for you and half for me, Between us two shall goodwill be".

Cross Buns

Though not necessarily "hot", unless eaten directly from the oven

3 1/2 - 4 1/2 cups AP flour; divided
2 pkgs Active Dry Yeast
1 tsp Cinnamon
3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
3 eggs
2/3 cup currants

Wash:
1 egg white, slightly beaten

Icing:
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
dash salt

Milk (will vary)

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour with the yeast and cinnamon.

Heat milk, vegetable oil, sugar and salt in a saucepan until warm; stir constantly.

Remove from heat and beat for 3 minutes at high speed with an electric mixer.

Add all at once to the flour mixture along with the eggs.

Beat at low speed with an electric mixer for 1 minute, scraping sides of bowl constantly.
Beat 3 more minutes at high speed.

Stir in currants,

and as much of the remaining flour as possible. (about 2 more cups)

Turn dough out onto a floured surface (It's still gonna be REALLY sticky) and knead in another 1/2 cup of the remaining flour to make a moderately soft dough that is smooth and elastic. (the grand total of flour this time was only 4 cups)

Shape into a ball and place in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat the surface.

Cover and place in a warm spot to let it rise until double, about 1 1/2 hours.
Punch dough down and turn out onto lightly floured surface.

Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
Divide dough into 16 pieces and form each into a smooth ball.

Place on a greased or parchment lined baking sheet 1 1/2 inches apart.

Cover; let rise until nearly double (30 to 45 minutes).
With a sharp knife, cut a cross in each; brush tops of each bun with some of the slightly beaten egg white (reserve the remainder).

Bake at 375 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden.

Cool slightly.
Meanwhile, combine powdered sugar, vanilla, dash of salt and the reserved egg white.

Add more milk as necessary to give it a thick pouring consistency.
Squeeze crosses over buns, following the cuts.
I have to use a squeeze bottle,

because I am too much of a spazz to be able to pour from the pitcher. They end up looking like this...

Instead of this...

Let the icing dry and then chow down!

Mangia!
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