Low Sodium Hot Cross Buns

Warm, fragrant, and delightfully wholesome, these Low Sodium Hot Cross Buns are a healthier twist on a beloved classic. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, these buns pack flavor without relying on extra salt. A generous handful of sweet raisins and a hint of orange zest add bursts of natural sweetness and citrusy brightness to every bite. The signature piped cross and glossy apricot glaze elevate these homemade buns, making them as beautiful as they are delicious. Ideal for Easter celebrations or anytime you crave a comforting treat, this recipe offers a heart-friendly option without compromising the rich flavors and tender texture you love. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or gently warmed, these buns are perfect for breakfast, snack time, or as a special addition to your holiday table.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:40 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 500 g All-purpose flour
• 50 g Unsalted butter
• 75 g Granulated sugar
• 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 tsp Ground nutmeg
• 0.5 tsp Ground allspice
• 7 g Instant yeast
• 250 ml Milk (warm)
• 1 large Egg
• 100 g Raisins
• 1 tbsp Orange zest
• 75 g Plain flour (for cross)
• 5 tbsp Water (for cross)
• 3 tbsp Apricot jam
• 1 tbsp Water (for glaze)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, and instant yeast.

Step 2

Heat the milk until it is warm (but not hot), and pour it into the flour mixture. Add the unsalted butter and the large egg.

Step 3

Mix the ingredients together until they form a soft dough.

Step 4

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 5

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6

Once the dough has risen, add the raisins and orange zest, kneading them into the dough until evenly distributed.

Step 7

Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape each piece into a round bun.

Step 8

Place the buns on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, cover them, and let them rise for another 30 minutes until they are puffy.

Step 9

Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F).

Step 10

To make the cross, mix the plain flour with the water until you have a smooth, thick paste. Transfer the paste to a piping bag and pipe a cross onto each bun.

Step 11

Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.

Step 12

While the buns are baking, prepare the glaze by heating the apricot jam with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Once the buns are out of the oven, brush the tops with the warm glaze.

Step 13

Allow the buns to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1290.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3466.2

Total Fat 62.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 31.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.0g
Cholesterol 351.4mg	0%
Sodium 258.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 654.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 25.6g	0%
Total Sugars 193.9g
Protein 81.5g	0%

Vitamin D 184.8IU	0%
Calcium 546.2mg	0%
Iron 27.9mg	0%
Potassium 1965.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 16.1%

Protein: 9.3%

Carbs: 74.6%