Indulge in the festive spirit with our delectable Christmas bread recipe. This soft, slightly sweet bread is a holiday favorite, filled with dried fruits and topped with a beautiful icing. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a centerpiece for your holiday table, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Bake it fresh, and let the aroma fill your home with warmth and cheer, making it an essential part of your Christmas traditions.
Ingredients
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk, warmed
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
– Icing sugar for decoration
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 1 loaf, serving approximately 8 people. Preparation time is about 1 hour, with an additional 1 hour for rising, and baking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately:
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 3g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 7g
– Fiber: 1g
(Note: values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Make a well in the center and add melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and the yeast mixture.
4. Mix until a dough forms; knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
5. Incorporate dried fruits into the dough, kneading until evenly distributed.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
7. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf; place it in a greased loaf pan.
8. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
9. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
10. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown; cool before icing.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, swap dried fruits for chocolate chips or nuts to customize the flavor to your liking.
Serving and Pairings
This Christmas bread pairs wonderfully with a spread of butter or cream cheese. Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee for a delightful treat during the festive season.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Christmas bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not letting the dough rise long enough can result in a dense loaf.
- Using cold milk instead of warm can hinder yeast activation.
- Over-kneading can make the bread tough.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture and flavor.
- Skipping the icing can lead to a less festive appearance.
Helpful Tips
- Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
- Experiment with different dried fruits for unique flavors.
- Keep the dough covered to prevent it from drying out.
- Brush with melted butter after baking for a shiny finish.
FAQs
Can I make this bread in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it after the first rise. Shape and let it rise again before baking when you’re ready.
What can I serve with Christmas bread?
Christmas bread is delightful with butter, cream cheese, or even jam. Pair it with coffee or mulled wine for a festive touch.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be added to the dough for a crunchy texture and added flavor.
How should I store leftover bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent for the best texture.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Use a toothpick to check if it comes out clean.
Why is my bread dense?
Dense bread can result from under-kneading or not allowing enough time for the dough to rise. Ensure proper yeast activation and rising times.
Conclusion
This Christmas bread recipe is not only a joy to make but also a delightful treat to share with loved ones during the festive season. Its soft texture and sweet flavors make it a perfect addition to any holiday table. Enjoy the process of baking and the warm aromas that fill your home, creating lasting memories with each slice.
Christmas Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk warmed
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 packet 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits
- Icing sugar for decoration
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a well in the center and add melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and the yeast mixture.
- Mix until a dough forms; knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Incorporate dried fruits into the dough, kneading until evenly distributed.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf; place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown; cool before icing.