Christmas Bread is a delightful treat, combining the flavors of cinnamon, dried fruits, and nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings. This festive loaf not only fills your home with the warm aroma of baking but also brings joy and togetherness to your Christmas celebrations. If you’re looking for a way to make your holiday season extra special, the right recipe for Christmas Bread can be the centerpiece of your festive table.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Bread

This Christmas Bread is much more than just a loaf; it’s a celebration in itself. Here are some reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:

It features a beautiful blend of spices and textures, making it a traditional Christmas bread recipe.
The inclusion of dried fruits and nuts gives it a rich flavor and makes it a sweet bread for Christmas celebration.
Each slice is a perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or tea, making it an ideal holiday bread.
It’s simple to make, allowing you to enjoy the process without stress, suitable for easy Christmas bread recipes.
This bread is perfect for sharing with loved ones, embodying the spirit of the season.
With its festive colors and flavors, it serves as a fantastic centerpiece for your holiday table.

Ingredients for Christmas Bread

Gather these items:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp salt
1 cup warm milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup dried fruits (e.g., raisins, cranberries)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, almonds)

How to Make Christmas Bread Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
Step 2: In another bowl, whisk together warm milk, melted butter, and eggs.
Step 3: Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate the dried fruits and nuts, kneading until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm area for about 60 minutes or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 7: Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased bread pan.
Step 8: Let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
Step 9: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 10: Let cool before slicing and serving.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Bread

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Watch your dough during the rise; it should double in size for the best texture.
For added flavor, consider using a mix of different dried fruits.
Utilize a thermometer to check that your bread is fully cooked; it should reach 190°F in the center.
Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for unique flavors.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Bread

There are many delightful ways to enjoy your freshly baked Christmas Bread:

Serve it warm with a smear of butter for a comforting breakfast.
Pair it with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine for a festive treat.
Use it as a base for French toast for a unique twist on a classic breakfast.

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How to Store and Reheat Christmas Bread

To keep your Christmas Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze it. To reheat, you can pop slices in the toaster or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Bread

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Bread?

The secret lies in the proper kneading and allowing the dough to rise fully, which ensures a light and fluffy texture. Adding a good mix of dried fruits and nuts enhances the flavor profile, making it a standout festive bread.

Can I make Christmas Bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it after the first rise. Just remember to allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Bread?

To avoid common mistakes, measure your ingredients accurately and ensure your yeast is fresh. Don’t skip the rising times, as they are crucial for developing flavor and texture in your yuletide bread.

Variations of Christmas Bread You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with your Christmas Bread. Here are some variations to consider:

Try adding citrus zest for a refreshing twist.
Incorporate chocolate chips for a sweeter version.
Experiment with different nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Create a savory version by using herbs and cheese instead of sweet ingredients.

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe category or learn how to make easy cinnamon rolls for a delightful breakfast treat. If you’re interested in the health benefits of ingredients, read about the benefits of onions.

Christmas Bread: 10 Heartwarming Recipes for the Holidays

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A delightful treat combining the flavors of cinnamon, dried fruits, and nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Category: Baked Goods
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
1/4 cup sugar
1 tsp salt
1 cup warm milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup dried fruits (e.g., raisins, cranberries)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, almonds)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, whisk together warm milk, melted butter, and eggs.
Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes.
Incorporate the dried fruits and nuts, kneading until evenly distributed.
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm area for about 60 minutes or until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased bread pan.
Let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Let cool before slicing and serving.