Name: Delightful Christmas Bread Recipe for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: PT-491724H8M17S
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins or cranberries); 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

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Christmas Bread is a festive holiday treat filled with warm spices, dried fruits, and crunchy nuts. This easy-to-make bread is soft and flavorful, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven or toasted with butter, this recipe encapsulates the spirit of Christmas in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Bread

This delightful Christmas Bread is not just a treat; it’s a tradition! Here are a few reasons to make it:

Perfect for holiday breakfast or brunch with family.
Warm spices create a comforting aroma that fills your home.
Easy to make, even for beginner bakers.
Delicious when served warm or toasted with butter.
Customizable with your favorite nuts and dried fruits.
Great for gifting during the festive season.

With its traditional Christmas bread essence and festive charm, this recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday celebrations. Plus, it fits perfectly into an International cuisine category.

Ingredients for Christmas Bread

Gather these items:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins or cranberries)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

How to Make Christmas Bread Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a bowl, pour 1 cup of warm milk (110°F/43°C). Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
Step 2: Add 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 2 eggs to the yeast mixture. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 5: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 6: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Step 7: Punch down the dough, then fold in 1/2 cup dried fruit and 1/2 cup chopped nuts, distributing evenly.
Step 8: Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 9: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown. The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Let it cool before slicing.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Bread

Keep these in mind:

Serve warm or toasted with butter for a delightful treat.
This bread can be stored for several days, keeping the festive spirit alive.
Great for holiday gatherings, make extras to share with friends and family!
For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a suitable blend.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Bread

Here are a few ideas:

Slice and serve with a dollop of butter or cream cheese.
Pair with your favorite holiday preserves for a sweet twist.
Enjoy as a delightful breakfast option alongside coffee or tea.

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Bread

Allow the bread to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This will keep it fresh for several days. To reheat, slice and pop it in the toaster or warm it in the oven for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Bread

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Bread?

The key is to ensure your yeast is fresh and the milk is at the right temperature. This ensures a good rise, leading to a fluffy texture.

Can I make Christmas Bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise the night before. Shape it and let it rise again before baking.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Bread?

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately and knead enough for elasticity. Avoid over-baking to keep it moist and tender.

Variations of Christmas Bread You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe:

Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist on a festive bread.
Incorporate citrus zest for a fresh flavor.
Experiment with different nuts and dried fruits, such as apricots or almonds.

This traditional Christmas bread is versatile and can be adapted to fit your personal tastes, making it a wonderful part of your holiday traditions!

For more festive recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making cranberry orange pancakes for a delightful breakfast option. You can also explore gingerbread cookies to complement your holiday treats.

For additional insights on baking bread, you might find this bread baking guide helpful.