Biscuit Hot Cross Buns for the win!
ingredients
BUNS:
1/2 cup dried apricots
1/4 cup orange liqueur
1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon water (divided)
1 egg (beaten)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dusting)
2 (10.2-ounce) cans biscuit dough
1/4 cup slivered almonds (toasted)
cooking spray
ICING:
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 tablespoon milk (plus extra as needed)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
CREAM CHEESE SPREAD:
4 ounces cream cheese
1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar
1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
directions
For the Hot Cross Buns: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add orange liqueur, and 1/4 cup water and bring to a simmer. Add apricots and simmer for 5-8 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer mixture to the carafe a food processor fitted with the blade attachment or a blender. Pulse mixture until completely smooth.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 325ºF. Spray a cast iron pan with cooking spray and set aside.
In a small bowl, add egg and remaining 1 tablespoon of water. Whisk to combine and set aside.
On a lightly floured workspace, place dough rounds and place a heaping tablespoon of apricot mixture into the center of each each dough round. Bring the edges towards the center and wrap up to form a ball.
In the prepared skillet, place the filled biscuits seam-side down, about 1/2-inch apart. Brush the tops with egg wash. Transfer to oven and bake until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Once buns have cooled, pipe a cross formation over each individual bun with prepared icing and garnish with almonds. Serve immediately with cream cheese spread.
For the Icing: In a medium bowl, add confectioners’ sugar and milk and stir to combine. Add vanilla extract and more milk as needed to make a thick paste-like frosting, stir to combine. Transfer mixture to a piping bag fitted with a 1/4-inch round tip.
For the Cream Cheese Spread: In a medium bowl, squeeze cream cheese through a potato ricer and add confectioners’ sugar and salt. Stir to combine and serve as a spread with the hot cross buns.
For the Toasted Almonds: In a medium skillet over medium heat, add almonds. Tossing occasionally, cook until golden brown and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
Tip: Use this method to make a quick-jam with your favorite dried fruit!
