Christmas Bread is a delightful treat that fills your home with the warm and inviting aromas of the holiday season. This sweet and slightly spiced bread is packed with dried fruits and nuts, making it a perfect way to celebrate Christmas. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or giving it as a holiday gift, this bread is sure to become a beloved part of your festive traditions.
Why Make This Christmas Bread
Making Christmas Bread is not only a way to indulge in some seasonal flavors; it’s also a wonderful opportunity to bring together family and friends. The act of baking can create cherished memories and traditions. Its soft, fluffy texture and rich flavors will brighten any holiday breakfast or dessert table. Plus, the sweet scent wafting from the oven will instantly put everyone in a festive mood, making the kitchen feel like the heart of holiday celebrations.
How to Make Christmas Bread
Creating this Christmas Bread is a straightforward process that even beginner bakers can master. The combination of flour, sugar, yeast, and warm milk sets the stage for a delicious bread, while the cinnamon, dried fruits, and nuts provide mouthwatering flavors. The kneading and rising stages allow the bread to develop its fluffy texture, ensuring that each bite is a holiday delight.
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 the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter until warm. Stir in the eggs.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until smooth, then place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down, then mix in the dried fruits and nuts.
- Shape the dough into loaves and place them in greased bread pans.
- Let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool before gifting or serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Christmas Bread (based on 12 servings) contains approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 5g
How to Serve Christmas Bread
Christmas Bread is versatile and can be served in various ways. Enjoy it warm, spread with a little butter or cream cheese for a cozy breakfast. It also pairs perfectly with coffee or tea during holiday gatherings. For dessert, consider slicing it and serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey. The bread also makes an excellent addition to gift baskets, instantly bringing cheer to anyone who receives it.
How to Store Christmas Bread
To keep your Christmas Bread fresh, allow it to cool completely before storage. Wrap it in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just ensure it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven to restore its delicious flavors.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Bread
- Make sure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast effectively.
- Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this helps develop the bread’s texture.
- Experiment with different dried fruits like apricots or figs for unique flavors.
- If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup.
- Allow the bread to rise in a warm, draft-free zone – a slightly warmed oven works great.
Delicious Variations
- Spiced Orange Christmas Bread: Add the zest of one orange and substitute cranberries for dried apricots.
- Chocolate Chip Christmas Bread: Fold in some chocolate chips along with the dried fruits for a sweet twist.
- Savory Christmas Bread: Omit sugar and cinnamon, adding herbs like rosemary or thyme instead, along with cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add a nutty flavor and increase the fiber content.
2. What can I use in place of dried fruits? You can replace dried fruits with chocolate chips, nuts, or even fresh fruits like apples (though fresh fruits will change the texture).
3. How can I tell when the bread is done baking? The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) ensures it is fully cooked.
Conclusion
This Christmas Bread recipe captures the essence of the holiday season with its rich flavors and comforting aroma. It’s an easy way to create a festive atmosphere in your kitchen and a perfect gift for loved ones. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and treat yourself and your family to this delightful bread! Don’t forget to share your baking experience with friends and family—happy baking!
