Christmas Bread

why make this recipe

Christmas Bread is a delightful way to celebrate the season with friends and family. This bread is not only delicious but is also filled with warmth and joy, making it perfect for festive gatherings. The combination of sweet fruits and nuts adds festive flavors that are loved by many. Plus, the smell of fresh bread baking in your home creates a cozy atmosphere during the holidays.

how to make Christmas Bread

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup dried fruits (such as cranberries, raisins, or candied citrus peel)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla to the yeast mixture and mix well.
3. In another bowl, combine flour, salt, and nutmeg. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
5. Incorporate dried fruits and nuts into the dough.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a cloth; let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf.
9. Place in a greased loaf pan and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
11. Let cool before slicing. Enjoy your festive Christmas Bread!

how to serve Christmas Bread

Christmas Bread is best served warm. Slice and spread with butter or serve with a side of jam for added sweetness. It also pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa or tea. You can place slices on a holiday-themed platter for a beautiful presentation.

how to store Christmas Bread

To store Christmas Bread, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain its freshness for a few days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw and reheat in the oven.

tips to make Christmas Bread

• Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, as heat can kill the yeast.
• Add more dried fruits or nuts if you want a richer flavor.
• Knead the dough well for a better texture.
• Experiment with spices like cinnamon for additional warmth.
• You can also drizzle a simple icing on top after baking for a sweet touch.

Serving Ideas

Consider serving Christmas Bread at breakfast with coffee or as a sweet treat during holiday parties. It can also be a lovely gift for neighbors and friends wrapped in festive paper.

Final Thoughts

Making Christmas Bread is a fun and rewarding activity during the holiday season. Not only does it taste good, but it also brings people together in the kitchen. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcomes!

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

Can I make this bread without nuts?
Absolutely! You can leave out the nuts or replace them with more dried fruits.

How long does the bread last?
When stored properly, Christmas Bread can last up to 3-5 days at room temperature and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Christmas Bread

Celebrate the festive season with this delightful Christmas Bread filled with sweet fruits and nuts, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere in your home.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 12 slices

Course: Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine: American, Festive

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dough Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk Make sure it's warm, not hot.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Fruits and Nuts

• 1/2 cup dried fruits (such as cranberries, raisins, or candied citrus peel)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla to the yeast mixture and mix well.
3. In another bowl, combine flour, salt, and nutmeg. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
5. Incorporate dried fruits and nuts into the dough.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a cloth; let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf.
3. Place in a greased loaf pan and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Let cool before slicing.

Notes

Serve warm with butter or jam, and store in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or freeze wrapped in plastic for up to three months.