As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air, bringing back memories of cozy family gatherings. I remember the first time I baked Christmas Bread with my grandmother. We would spend hours in the kitchen, laughter echoing as we kneaded the dough together. This warm bread, studded with dried fruit and nuts, became a symbol of togetherness. It’s a recipe that matters because it reminds us of love, celebration, and the joy of sharing good food with those we cherish. Christmas Bread is special not just for its delightful taste, but for the memories it creates during the festive season.
why make this recipe
Making Christmas Bread is a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays. It brings comfort and warmth to your home, and the inviting scent of baking bread adds to the festive spirit. This bread is easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it with your morning coffee, each slice tells a story of love and tradition. Plus, the combination of dried fruit and nuts adds a lovely texture and flavor that everyone will enjoy.
how to make Christmas Bread
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (e.g., raisins, cranberries)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract into the yeast mixture.
- Gradually add the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
- Punch down the dough and fold in dried fruit and nuts.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool before serving.
how to serve Christmas Bread
Christmas Bread is delightful on its own, but it can also be served warm with butter or cream cheese. Slices of this bread make a perfect addition to your holiday breakfast or brunch. You may also enjoy it as a festive treat with a cup of hot cocoa or tea.
how to store Christmas Bread
To store Christmas Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze the bread for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it completely before serving.
tips to make Christmas Bread
- Make sure your yeast is active by checking the expiration date before use.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as you knead it.
- For added flavor, experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom.
- You can customize the dried fruit and nuts according to your preference.
variation
You can add chocolate chips or replace the dried fruit with candied citrus peel for a different flavor. Also, consider using various nuts to create your unique blend.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but keep in mind it may change the texture. You might need to add a bit more liquid.
How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
The bread should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Christmas Bread
Ingredients
For the dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast Check expiration date for effectiveness.
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk Around 110°F (43°C).
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For mixing in
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (e.g., raisins, cranberries)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)
Method
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract into the yeast mixture.
- Gradually add the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until it doubles in size.
- Punch down the dough and fold in dried fruit and nuts.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool before serving.