Place dough ingredients into a bread machine in the order listed. Set a timer for 10 minutes. Turn the machine on using the "dough only" function. After 10 minutes add the "later addition to the dough" ingredients.
When the "dough only" function signals ready, remove the dough onto a well-floured surface and knock it back with your knuckles. Knead lightly, then divide into 12 portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then pull the dough from around the sides to underneath each bun to give a neat shape.
Place the buns into a well-greased baking dish, approximately 24 cm x 32 cm, 1.5 cm apart. Cover with a damp kitchen towel and allow to proof for 45-60 minutes or until the buns are just touching one another.
Preheat the oven to 200C/180C fan.
To make the cross decoration, mix the flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a smooth paste. If the paste is too thick, add a few drops of water. Then, place the paste into a piping bag and decorate the buns accordingly.
Bake the buns in the center of the oven for 20 minutes, or until risen and golden. Brush the warm buns with maple syrup!