Hot cross buns are the perfect breakfast treat for the whole family. Follow this simple recipe to show off your baking skills. Suitable for Gluten-free | Dairy-free Serves 12 Prep time  30 minutes (plus proving) Cook time 25 minutes

Method

Step 1 Place the almond milk and sunflower spread in a pan and heat gently until spread dissolves. Remove from the heat and leave to cool until hand hot (approx. 37ºC). Step 2 Sift the flour into a warmed mixing bowl with the mixed spice, then stir in the yeast, sugar and salt. Step 3 Whisk the egg into the cooled milk mixture then make a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and add the liquid. Step 4 Mix well to bring the mixture together and form a ball. Don’t knead. Lift into a clean, lightly oiled bowl, cover loosely with cling film and leave to rise in a warm place until doubled in size. Step 5 Tip the sultanas, mixed peel and orange zest on to the dough and work in to the mixture. Divide into 12 equal-sized balls and shape into buns using lightly floured hands. (As a guide they should weigh roughly 80g each.) Step 6 Set them well apart on to 2 non-stick baking trays, cover loosely with oiled cling film and leave to rise for another hour in a warm place. Step 7 Heat the oven to 220ºC/200ºC fan/gas 7. Mix the flour for the cross with enough water to form a paste, spoon into a disposable piping bag, snip off the end and pipe a cross on top of each bun. Step 8 Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and a crust has formed. Step 9 Remove from the oven, immediately brush with honey to glaze, and allow to cool on a wire rack. Shop our Food & Drink range.