Definition & Meaning of "hot cross bun"

What is "hot cross bun"?

A hot cross bun is a type of sweet bread roll that is traditionally eaten on Good Friday in many parts of the world. It is made from a yeast dough that is enriched with sugar, butter, and sometimes milk or eggs, which gives it a soft and fluffy texture. The buns are then studded with raisins or other dried fruit and flavored with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. The most distinctive feature of a hot cross bun is the cross that is cut into the top of the bun before it is baked. This cross is usually made from a mixture of flour and water, or sometimes from icing. Hot cross buns are often enjoyed as a breakfast food or a snack, and are commonly served toasted with butter or jam. They are a symbol of Easter and are a popular food in many countries around the world.