By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on May 23, 2023 | Last Updated on February 24, 2024
Guyana’s cross buns are a delightful treat that brings a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The flaky, buttery texture and wonderful aroma make these buns a must-have during Easter time or any other occasion.
Whether you’re looking for an easy snack or something to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to please!
In this article, we’ll be discussing the ingredients and step-by-step instructions you need to make these delicious treats.
We’ll also include some helpful tips & tricks as well as nutrition information so that can get the most out of your cross bun creation. So, let’s get started!
What is the Guyanese Cross Bun Recipe?
The Guyanese Cross Bun is a sweet, spiced bread roll popular during Easter or other holidays. Known as “hot crossings,” these traditional treats are with common ingredients like all-purpose flour, sugar, active dry yeast, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, butter, and warm milk to form a soft dough.
Raisins are often added for sweetness while an egg wash helps give the buns a nice sheen before baking.
What does it taste like?
The Guyanese Cross Bun has a soft, flaky texture and a light sweetness. The nutmeg, cinnamon, and raisins add warmth to the bun while the butter adds richness.
The egg wash gives them an inviting sheen before baking which helps bring out the flavor even more. Overall, these buns have a complex yet delightful flavor that will have your mouth watering!
How did I first get introduced to the Guyanese Cross Bun Recipe?
I first came across the Guyanese Cross Bun Recipe when I was visiting a friend in Guyana. She served us these delicious buns for breakfast and I knew right away that I had to make them myself!
After doing some research, I discovered that these delectable treats have been a part of the country’s culture for centuries and it was a great honor to be able to try them out.
Then, I’ve made the many times and they’re always a hit with my family and friends. They’re perfect for any occasion and are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face!
You can also check out the following recipe :
How to Make a Guyanese Cross Bun Recipe?
Making the Guyanese Cross Bun Recipe is a simple process that just takes a few steps. Here are the ingredients & step-by-step process for this recipe:
Ingredients
- All-purpose Flour: This is essential for the dough structure of your cross buns.
- Granulated Sugar: This adds a nice sweetness to the recipe and helps in giving the cross bun a golden brown color when baking.
- Whole Milk: Warmed-up buns a nice rise.
- Raisins (optional): This adds a nice sweetness and texture to your cross buns.
- Active Dry Yeast: This is essential for making the dough rise, as it helps in creating an airy texture.
- Salt: A pinch of salt helps enhance the flavors of all the ingredients used in the recipe.
- Unsalted Butter: This adds richness and flavor to the cross buns.
- Ground Nutmeg & Cinnamon: These two spices add a wonderful aroma and subtle sweetness to the recipe, enhancing the overall flavor of your cross buns.
- Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract gives your cross buns an inviting scent and flavor
- Egg & Water: This egg wash is used to give your cross buns a nice sheen before baking.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix together until everything is well combined.
Step 2
Add the unsalted butter and mix until it’s evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 3
Slowly pour in the warmed-up milk and knead for about 10 minutes until a soft, smooth dough forms.
Step 4
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for an additional 5 minutes, then transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour.
Step 5
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and place it on a floured surface. Knead for about 2 minutes and then roll out into an oval-shaped disc that’s about 1/4-inch thick.
Step 6
Sprinkle the raisins (if using) evenly over the disc, then fold them in half and pinch the edges together to keep them in place.
Step 7
Cut the dough into 12 equal and place on a greased sheet. Cover with a kitchen and let rise for 30 minutes.
Step 8
Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C).
Step 9
Brush the cross buns with the egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 10
Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips
-Use a kitchen scale to measure your ingredients for the most accurate results.
-If you don’t have active dry yeast, you can also use instant yeast.
-If using raisins in the recipe, make sure to add them after kneading and rolling out the dough so they won’t be overworked.
-Keep the dough covered while it rises so it won’t form a crust on top.
-Make sure your oven is preheated before baking the cross buns to ensure even heat distribution.
Guyanese Cross Buns Recipe
Equipment
- Large Bowl
- baking tray /cookie sheet
Ingredients
- 3.5 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1/2 cup brown sugar or white granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup buttermilk or whole milk warmed
- 2 tsp Bob's Red Mill Active Dry Yeast, Recommended
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (cinnamon powder)
- 1/4 cup Dark raisins
- 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tsp water for egg wash
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix together until everything is well combined.
- Add the unsalted butter and mix until it’s evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Slowly pour in the warmed-up milk and knead for about 10 minutes until a soft, smooth dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for an additional 5 minutes, then transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour.
- Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and place it on a floured surface. Knead for about 2 minutes and then roll out into an oval-shaped disc that’s about 1/4-inch thick.
- Sprinkle the raisins (if using) evenly over the disc, then fold them in half and pinch the edges together to keep them in place.
- Cut the dough into 10 equal and place on a greased sheet. Cover with a kitchen and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C).
- Brush the cross buns with the egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition Information
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Sodium: 112mg
Carbohydrates: 25.5g
Fiber: 1.3g
Sugar: 8.5g
Protein: 3.6g
What to serve with Guyanese Cross Bun?
The Guyanese cross bun is a delicious snack that can be served as an accompaniment to a variety of dishes. It pairs well with salads, soups and stews, grilled meats and vegetables, or even just on its own with butter or jam.
It can also be served as a dessert with fresh fruits or ice cream. Whatever you choose to serve with it, the Guyanese Cross Bun is sure to be a hit!
How to store leftover Guyanese Cross Bun?
Leftover Guyanese Cross Buns can be stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’d like to keep them longer, they can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
To store the buns, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and package them with wax paper between each bun. When you’re ready to enjoy them, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (176°C) for 5-10 or until they are warmed through.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Pregnant women can safely enjoy the Guyanese cross bun in moderation. Before consuming, make sure to check with your doctor or healthcare provider for any dietary restrictions that may apply during pregnancy.
The recipe does contain unsalted butter and eggs, so it is recommended that pregnant women opt for pasteurized dairy products and thoroughly cook their eggs before eating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use a different type of flour to make the Guyanese Cross Buns. You can substitute all-purpose flour for whole wheat or any other type of flour that you prefer.
Just make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly depending on the type of flour used.
Do I need to use active dry yeast?
No, you don’t need to use active dry yeast for this recipe. You can also use instant yeast, which does not require any activation or proofing before use.
Just make sure to adjust the amount of liquid and/or sugar accordingly when substituting with instant yeast.
Can I add spices to the recipe?
Yes, you can add to the Guyanese Cross Bun Recipe. Feel free to add your favorite seasonings like ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a more flavorful bun.
Additionally, you could also add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a crunchy twist.
Wrapping Up
The Guyanese Cross Bun is a classic recipe that is sure to delight both young and old alike. It’s simple, quick, and easy to make and can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or even just on its own.
With its sweet flavor and fluffy texture, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion! So why not give it a try? Follow the steps above and you’ll be sure to have delicious Guyanese Crossuns in no time!
We hope this article gave you an insight into the delicious Guyanese Cross Bun Recipe. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more