Choc Chip Hot Cross Buns Best Easter Baking Recipe

Instructions:

1. Combine lukewarm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let stand until foamy (about 5-10 minutes).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and spices.
3. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead by hand or with a stand mixer until smooth and elastic (about 8-10 minutes).
5. Gently knead in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
6. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
7. Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball.
8. Arrange the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise until puffy (about 30 minutes).
9. Whisk flour and water together until smooth. Transfer to a pastry bag or ziplock bag. Snip a small corner.
10. Pipe crosses onto each bun.
11. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
12. While the buns are baking, heat milk and sugar in a small saucepan until sugar dissolves.
13. Brush the warm buns with the glaze immediately after removing them from the oven.
14. Let cool on a wire rack before serving.