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Heavy hot cross buns!

Asked on 25 Mar 2024 by Julia

Hot Cross Buns - These had a lovely flavour but were far too heavy. I followed the recipe exactly , left to prove and double in size -as far as I can tell - but they were stodgy . What did I wrong please?
I will try again as even mine had the potential to be really lovely hot cross buns.

Lindsey, Food Editor replied

Hello,

These no-knead buns are dense compared to anything you can buy but I wouldn’t describe them as stodgy.

It may be that they needed a bit more time to rise and / or more time in the oven.

This version of the recipe is aimed at encouraging reluctant bakers to have a go. They do taste great and should come out looking as they do on the video.

For a lighter dough you can make the dough in a beadmaker or before you leave the dough to rise transfer it to a clean surface and knead for about 6 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic, then leave it to rise in the bowl as per the recipe.

Best wishes

Lindsey

Julia replied

Thank you very much Lindsey, I will try again - but believe me mine were stodgy . Recipe is great it is the baker (me) at fault without a doubt.
Would it be ok to use a dough hook as I am unable to knead dough anymore sadly?

Lindsey, Food Editor replied

I don’t think it is your fault.

It is important that all the liquid goes in to as a softer dough rises much better.

A dough hook is a good idea.

I would add the fruit after it has had a few minutes.

Happy Easter!

Lindsey