Creating Hot Cross Buns can be straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the warm milk, butter, and eggs until well combined.
3. Form the Dough: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Add Dried Fruit: Gently fold in the mixed dried fruit and candied peel until evenly distributed.
6. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
7. Shape the Buns: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them on a greased baking tray.
8. Second Rise: Cover the buns with a cloth and let them rise again until they have doubled in size (about 30 minutes).
9. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the buns are rising.
10. Prepare the Cross: In a small bowl, mix icing sugar with water to create a thick paste. Transfer it to a piping bag (or a plastic bag with the corner snipped off).
11. Bake: Once the buns have risen, pipe crosses on top and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
12. Glaze the Buns: As the buns cool, heat apricot jam and water in a small saucepan until melted. Brush the glaze over the warm buns for a shiny finish.
13. Cool: Allow the buns to cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving.

These steps will guide you in creating these incredible buns effortlessly.