STEP 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and caster sugar. Add the instant yeast and mix well. Add the softened butter and rub it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Warm the milk until it is lukewarm and beat in the egg. Pour the milk and egg mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and leave it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
STEP 2
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the light brown sugar and ground cinnamon (or mixed spice). Stir until well combined. Set aside the currants or raisins and mixed peel (if using).
STEP 3
Once the dough has doubled in size, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly to knock out the air. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 1 cm (1/2 inch) thick. Spread the spiced butter mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the currants or raisins and mixed peel over the top. Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a bun.
STEP 4
Place the buns in the air fryer basket lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each bun for rising. Cover with a clean cloth and leave to rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until the buns have doubled in size.
STEP 5
Preheat the air fryer to 160°C (320°F). Brush the tops of the buns with milk. Place the buns in the air fryer and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
STEP 6
While the buns are cooking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, gently heat the apricot jam with the water until melted and smooth. Brush the hot cross buns with the apricot glaze as soon as they come out of the air fryer.
STEP 7
Transfer the glazed buns to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your Chelsea Buns: The ORIGINAL Cinnamon Roll!