Help! Hot Cross "Rock" Buns

[O4aTimtam]

My first batch of Hot Cross Buns from the EDC made last Sunday afternoon were wonderful.  I tried to make some more last night and unfortunately I have little rock cakes  .  This is only my second attempt at breadmaking, so I am looking for some help please. 

Firstly, I think it may not have been warm enough?  I left it to rise on the kitchen table, and it was about 7.30pm,  If baking in the evening, should I be putting the dough in the oven on about 50 deg? 

Secondly, I added the currants and sultanas at the beginning as I found they didn't seem to blend when I added them following the EDC Hot Cross Bun instructions.  They seemed a bit chopped up through the mixture.

Any pointers would be welcomed, as I am hoping to make some more over Easter, and hope I haven't lost my touch already!   Thank you in advance, and Easter Greetings to all.

[achookwoman]

Bread and buns ,  need 20 to 25 degrees to rise in a convenient time  Buns 1.  to 1  1/2 hours.   You could look at my blog for a modified EDC recipe.  Adapted from suggestions from the Forum.  I can't go into details now as I have to go out.

[O4aTimtam]

Thanks very much for your quick reply.  Have found your blog, and will study this evening  . 

[Meagan]

It is also more about the dough doubling in size rather than sitting for a set time if you know what I mean

[O4aTimtam]

Okay, so had another go - and success  .  I did have a look at Elizabeth's blog, but printer wasn't working so followed the EDC again.  This time I put in a low oven to rise and was really thrilled with how they worked out!     

[judydawn]

You have now joined the perfect Hot Cross Bun club O4aTimtam - aren't they so different to the bought, stodgy ones

[O4aTimtam]

Thanks Judydawn!  Yes, they are delicious.  My trick is to slice them into 3 and pop them in the toaster.  So much quicker than warming up the grill.

[achookwoman]

O4aTimtam,  this is what I do.   What has surprised me is how long the homemade ones keep 'fresh'.   Although I must admit I am almost HCB'ed out.   Might just try a sweet plait with apple and walnuts,  and a little icing.

[faffa_70]

ROFL that is what we do as well. I thought my Mum had lost the plot the first time she did it when I was a kid!

[O4aTimtam]

Yep, its official, I'm HCB'ed out too.  Just froze (after slicing) the remants.  I am sure it a day or two they will be just what I am after ...

[Thermomixer]

Me too - have 2 batches that were made for the family - but too many and they forgot to take home doggy bags so freezing some for B&B puds etc.

[achookwoman]

B&B Puds sound great.  Thermomixer.

[Thermomixer]

Lots of mini B&B puds for MrsT from HCBs over the last few years - they work a treat.

[cathy79]

I've got mainly chocolate ones left so B&B pudding sounds great.  Now to find a recipe...

[O4aTimtam]

How about this one? "Chocolate hot cross bun and butter pudding"  http://www.taste.com.au/recipes/3729/chocolate+hot+cross+bun+and+butter+pudding 

One to try before the post Easter health kick starts ...