Shortcut Hot Cross Bun Loaf

If preparing bread dough scares you or you’re short on time, this recipe is for you. Store-bought frozen bread dough saves the day – just add the rest of ingredients that make a hot cross bun. I love it in loaf form but make individual buns if you prefer. Serve hot with good, salted butter.

• 1 pound of frozen white bread dough, thawed.

• 1 cup raisins – soak in warm water for 10 minutes if you have the time.

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 3/4 teaspoon all spice

• 2 teaspoons grated orange rind

• 1 whisked egg for the egg wash

• For the cross:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/3 cup water

Glaze:

• 1/4 cup maple syrup

• 2 tablespoons orange juice

• Boil for 5 minutes until thick

For the loaf:

• On a floured surface , sprinkle the spices over the dough and knead well.

• Add the raisins and orange rind and knead until well combined. You may need to push the raisins into the dough with your finger.

• Divide the dough in 8 pieces and form into balls. Place balls of dough into a parchment-lined loaf pan.

• Cover with a kitchen towel and leave in a warm sunny place to rise for 30 minutes.

• Meanwhile prepare the dough for the cross, the glaze and preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

• When loaf has doubled in size, brush with the egg wash.

• Place the cross dough in a small ziplock bag and snip off the corner of the bag. Pipe the dough along the length and width of the loaf.

• Bake for about 22 minutes until a deep golden brown and loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

• Remove from the oven and brush the loaf with the glaze. Serve warm with good, salted butter.