Hot Cross Bun Loaf

Loaf

500g strong white bread flour

1 sachet (7g) instant yeast

1 tsp mixed spice

1 tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp ground nutmeg

60g brown sugar

zest of 1 orange

½ tsp salt

60g softened butter

200ml warm milk

1 egg

120g mixed dried fruit

50g mixed peel (optional)

Cross paste

3 tbs plain flour

3 – 4 tbs water

Glaze

2 tbs apricot jam, warmed and strained

Method

Add the flour, yeast, spices, sugar, zest and salt into a mixing bowl. Add the butter, milk and egg. Knead with a dough hook on medium speed for 8 to 10 minutes.

Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled.

Punch down the dough. Add the dried fruit and peel. Knead to combine. Shape into a loaf and place in a greased tin. Let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Make a paste with the flour and water. Pipe a cross over the risen loaf.

Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until golden. Brush the warm loaf with apricot jam to glaze. Cool before slicing.

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