The aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home is one of the most comforting sensations, especially during the holiday season. This Christmas Bread recipe combines the warmth of spices, the sweetness of dried fruits, and the crunch of nuts, making it a delightful treat for any festive gathering. Not only is it a treat for the taste buds, but it also makes for a beautiful gift. With its fluffy texture and rich flavors, this bread can turn any breakfast or snack into a special occasion.
Why Make This Christmas Bread
Christmas Bread is not just about taste; it’s about tradition and creating memories. The blend of cinnamon and nuts evokes the essence of the holiday season, making it a perfect centerpiece for your Christmas table. It’s a delightful dish to share with family and friends, whether served with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet ending to a holiday meal. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that even novice bakers can tackle with confidence. Imagine presenting a homemade loaf to your guests and receiving their delighted reactions—that’s a gift worth sharing!
How to Make Christmas Bread
Making Christmas Bread is a simple, enjoyable process that allows you to engage your senses. You’ll mix, knead, and rise your way to a beautifully baked loaf that’s as wonderful to look at as it is to eat. The combination of warm milk, butter, and spices fills your kitchen with a cozy fragrance, making it a holiday favorite in no time!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 package yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, etc.)
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, pecans, etc.)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter until warmed (not boiling).
- Stir in the eggs until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, until it doubles in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to remove excess air, then mix in the dried fruits and nuts.
- Shape the dough into loaves and place them into greased bread pans.
- Let the loaves rise again for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread turns a lovely golden brown.
- Allow the bread to cool before slicing or gifting.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 slice, approximately 1/12 of the loaf):
- Calories: 210
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 4g
How to Serve Christmas Bread
Christmas Bread is incredibly versatile. Serve slices warm alongside butter for breakfast or enjoy it with your favorite jam. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. For dessert, sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar on top, or serve it alongside a scoop of ice cream for a festive treat. You can even toast it lightly and top it with cream cheese or ricotta for a gourmet touch at brunch!
How to Store Christmas Bread
To keep your Christmas Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist for about 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it at room temperature before enjoying!
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Bread
- Proof the Yeast: Always ensure your yeast is active. If it doesn’t bubble up when mixed with warm milk, you may need to buy fresh yeast.
- Kneading: Pay attention to the dough’s texture; it should be smooth and slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a sprinkle of flour as you knead.
- Add Flavor Boosters: You can enhance flavor by adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg.
- Temperature Matters: Let the dough rise in a warm area. If your kitchen is chilly, consider turning on your oven for a few minutes and then turning it off before placing the dough inside.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Chip Coconut Variation: Swap out the dried fruits and nuts for chocolate chips and shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Savory Twist: Decrease sugar and increase salt, then incorporate herbs, cheese, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a savory loaf.
- Fruit and Spice Explosion: Add a mix of candied citrus peels and a touch of ginger for a refreshing holiday flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains xantham gum or another binding agent to help with texture.Why is my bread dense?
A dense texture can result from not allowing the dough to rise sufficiently or using old yeast. Make sure to give it enough time and check your yeast’s freshness.How can I tell when my bread is done baking?
The bread should be golden brown on the top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 190°F (88°C).
Conclusion
Baking Christmas Bread is not only a wonderful way to fill your home with the cozy scents of the holiday season, but it’s also a heartfelt gift to share with loved ones. Its fluffy texture, delightful flavors, and versatility make this bread a must-try. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create a loaf that will surely bring warmth and joy — both to your kitchen and to those who are lucky enough to receive it. Happy baking!