Steamed Easter Hot Cross Buns

1.In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

2.Add melted butter, egg, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and half of the flour. Mix well.

3.Gradually add the remaining flour and knead until a soft dough forms. Add dried fruits and continue kneading for 5-7 minutes.

4.Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.

5.Divide the dough into 12 equal portions and shape them into buns. Place them on parchment paper in a steamer basket.

6.Steam the buns over boiling water for 20 minutes until cooked through.

7.While the buns are steaming, prepare the cross icing by mixing flour, water, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and thick.

8.Once the buns are done, remove them from the steamer and let them cool slightly. Pipe the cross icing on top of each bun in a cross pattern.

9.Serve the steamed Easter hot cross buns warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the fluffy buns with a cup of tea or coffee!