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Holiday Favorite Christmas Bread

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A festive and flavorful Christmas bread enriched with dried fruits, nuts, warm spices, and citrus zest. Perfect for holiday breakfasts or gift-giving, this comforting loaf brings the spirit of the season to your table.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 3/4 cup warm milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
  • 3/4 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or currants)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (optional, for glaze)
  • 1–2 tbsp milk or cream (for glaze, optional)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, active dry yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. Add the eggs, softened butter, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  4. Stir in the yeast mixture and knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Fold in the chopped nuts and dried fruits evenly throughout the dough.
  6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.
  7. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf or braid. Place on a prepared baking pan or sheet.
  8. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
  9. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  10. Bake for 30–40 minutes until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
  11. Let cool completely before drizzling with optional glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or cream.

Notes

Soak dried fruits in warm water or juice for plumper texture.Customize with chocolate chips, different nuts, or extra citrus zest.Divide dough into smaller portions for mini gift loaves.Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.Reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave before serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/holiday-favorite-christmas-bread/