why make this recipe
Christmas Bread is a delightful treat that fills your home with the warm and inviting scents of the holiday season. This bread is perfect for gatherings, enjoyed fresh from the oven with butter, or toasted for breakfast. The soft texture and festive flavors, combined with dried fruits and spices, make it a special addition to any holiday celebration.
how to make Christmas Bread
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as cranberries, raisins, or currants)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional)
Directions:
- In a small bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Fold in the dried fruit and nuts, if using.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased bread pan.
- Let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Allow to cool before slicing.
how to serve Christmas Bread
You can serve Christmas Bread warm or at room temperature. A simple spread of butter enhances its flavors, and it pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee. You can also enjoy it with a dollop of jam for a sweet treat.
how to store Christmas Bread
To keep your Christmas Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap. It can sit at room temperature for a few days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.
tips to make Christmas Bread
- Make sure your milk is warm but not too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast.
- Kneading is important to develop the gluten, giving the bread its structure.
- Don’t skip the rising times; they help the dough to become light and fluffy.
- Experiment with different types of dried fruits or nuts according to your taste preferences.
variation
You can add different spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique flavor. Other variations include adding chocolate chips or swapping dried fruit for fresh citrus zest.
FAQs
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator after the first rise. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour but be aware that it may result in a denser bread. You might want to combine it with some all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
What can I use if I don’t have active dry yeast?
You can use instant yeast, which does not need to be dissolved in warm water. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
Christmas Bread
A delightful holiday bread filled with festive flavors, dried fruits, and spices, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as cranberries, raisins, or currants)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Fold in the dried fruit and nuts, if using.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased bread pan.
- Let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Allow to cool before slicing.
Notes
Make sure your milk is warm but not too hot; kneading helps develop gluten. Experiment with different dried fruits and spices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Christmas bread, holiday bread, festive baking, sweet bread