why make this recipe
Christmas Bread is a delightful treat that fills your home with the warm aroma of spices and baked goods. Making this bread is a fun holiday activity, perfect for family gatherings or as a gift. It combines soft dough with sweet fruits and crunchy nuts, creating a cozy and comforting snack that everyone will love during the festive season. The combination of flavors and the simple preparation makes it an ideal choice for both experienced bakers and beginners.
how to make Christmas Bread
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (like raisins, cranberries, and apricots)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Add sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Incorporate dried fruits and nuts during kneading.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1-2 hours).
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Allow to cool before removing from the pan. Slice and serve!
how to serve Christmas Bread
Christmas Bread is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with butter or cream cheese. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving can add an extra festive touch. It is perfect for breakfast, as a snack with tea or coffee, or at holiday gatherings. You can even toast slices for a warm treat!
how to store Christmas Bread
To keep your Christmas Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and place it in the freezer. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
tips to make Christmas Bread
- Make sure your milk is warm but not hot to keep the yeast active.
- Knead the dough thoroughly for the best texture.
- Feel free to customize the dried fruits and nuts to your liking.
- If you want a sweeter bread, feel free to add more sugar or a drizzle of honey before serving.
variation
You can add orange zest or lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy flavor. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts. For a more festive touch, some people like to add spices like allspice or cloves.
FAQs
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can. Just be sure to activate it in warm water first before adding it to the mixture.
How can I make this bread ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then shape it into a loaf. Cover it and refrigerate overnight for the second rise. Bake it the next day.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but be sure to add a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture.
Christmas Bread
- Total Time: 155 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful festive treat filled with warm spices, sweet fruits, and crunchy nuts, perfect for family gatherings or as a holiday gift.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (like raisins, cranberries, and apricots)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Add sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Incorporate dried fruits and nuts during kneading.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1-2 hours).
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Allow to cool before removing from the pan. Slice and serve!
Notes
Serve with butter, cream cheese, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra festive touch. Store in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 120 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Christmas, Bread, Holiday Baking, Sweet Bread, Festive Recipe