In a mixing bowl add the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, mixed spice, salt and optional sugar (should you prefer a sweeter hot cross bun). Mix together until well combined.
Add the buttermilk and chocolate chips and mix with a wooden spoon until dough starts to come together. Tip out onto a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes.
Divide the dough into 6 or 8 pieces. Roll each piece of dough into a smooth ball and place in a greased baking dish.
Cross detail:
To make the cross detail, combine the flour and water in a small bowl and mix until smooth. Adjust the flour and water ratio accordingly to reach a consistency suitable for piping.
Pipe the flour mixture over the buns, forming a cross over each one. Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Glaze:
Melt apricot jam and add some water if necessary. Brush the glaze over the hot cross buns while they are still hot.
