Low-fat Hot Cross Buns

Ingredients

 * 14 g / 0.5 oz dried yeast or 30 g / 1 oz compressed yeast
 * ½ cup castor sugar
 * 1 teaspoon cinnamon
 * 1½ cups skim milk, warmed
 * 4 cups plain flour
 * 1 teaspoon salt
 * 1 teaspoon allspice
 * 60 g / 2.1 oz Praised reduced-fat margarine
 * 1 egg beaten
 * 1 cup sultanas

Paste for crosses

 * ¼ cup plain flour
 * ¼ cup water

Glaze

 * 2 tablespoon hot water
 * 2 tablespoon castor sugar
 * 1 teaspoon powdered gelatine
 * ½ teaspoon mixed spice

Directions

 * 1) In a bowl, combine yeast with 1 tablespoon of the sugar, and the warmed skim milk.
 * 2) Stir until the yeast and sugar are totally dissolved.
 * 3) Cover and stand in a warm place for 10 minutes, until bubbly.
 * 4) In another bowl, combine remaining sugar with flour, salt and spices.
 * 5) Massage in margarine, then include the yeast and milk mixture, egg and sultanas.
 * 6) Mix well, cover the bowl, and let mixture rise for 30 minutes in a warm place.
 * 7) Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead until smooth.
 * 8) Divide the dough into 16 pieces and knead pieces into round shapes.
 * 9) Place buns into a well-greased, 25 cm / 10 inch - square cake tin.
 * 10) Let rise in a warm place for 10 minutes.

Paste for crosses

 * 1) Mix the flour and water.
 * 2) Transfer into a piping bag with a small plain hole.
 * 3) Paint on crosses and bake in the oven for 15 – 20 minutes at 210°C/410°F.

Glaze

 * 1) Mix all the ingredients in a small pan.
 * 2) Cook over a low heat until dissolved, or place in the microwave for 30 secs on high.
 * 3) Stir well, until the sugar has dissolved.
 * 4) While buns are still hot, brush with glaze.