HOT CROSS BUNS

Today I thought it might be nice to try something new, so I decided to whip up some hot cross buns.  I am usually not very good at working with yeast but I somehow managed to accrue 9 packages of it !  Better get crackin!!

2 Pkgs 1/4 oz each active dry yeast (Yes got rid of 2 packages!)
2 cups warm whole milk
2 eggs
1/3 cup butter softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground allspice
6-7 cups flour
1/2 cup raisins I used golden
1/2 cups currants

In a small  bowl dissolve yeast in warm milk.  In a large bowl combine eggs, butter, sugar, salt, spices, yeast mixture and 3 cups flour.  Beat on medium speed until smooth.  Stir in currants and raisins and enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.  I used the remaining 3 cups and  changed the mixer from paddle to hook. Dough will be sticky.

On floured surface knead until smooth and elastic.  I just turned on the timer for 6 minutes and quit kneading after that.Place in a greased bowl, turn once and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place till double about 1 hour.

Just before I put them in the oven I used by kitchen scissors and just took a snip at the top one way and then another snip the other way to form a cross.  I am sure you don't need to do this but it looks good and gives you a spot to put in the frosting.

Bake at 375 for about 17 minutes. Now I am going to freeze these for Easter.  They are not very sweet. So the frosting you use to make the cross needs to be good and sweet and also quite thick. This recipe makes about 2 1/2 dozen.