Hot Cross Buns

Pour scalded milk over butter and sugar, stirring to dissolve. Cool to lukewarm.

Add the yeast mixture and eggs.

Mix well. Gradually add the flour and salt, reserving a small amount of flour to dust raisins.

Add spices and floured raisins to the dough and knead in thoroughly.

Place in a buttered bowl; cover and let rise until doubled.

Punch the dough down and turn it out onto a floured board.

Shape dough into 30 buns and place on buttered cookie sheets.

Cover and let rise for 30 minutes, then very carefully press the shape of a cross into each bun, using a spatula or the back of a knife.

Bake in a 375° oven for 10 minutes.

Reduce heat to 350° and continue baking until buns are browned, about 10 to 15 minutes longer.

Frost either the entire bun or just the shape of the cross.