Cozy Holiday Christmas Bread Recipe for Seasonal Cheer
This cozy holiday bread is a delightful baking tradition, perfect for festive gatherings. It combines warm spices, dried fruits, and nuts for a deliciously sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¼ cup candied orange peel
- 1 egg for egg wash
- 2 tablespoons coarse sugar
Instructions
- Combine warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast in a small bowl; let sit until frothy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture to the butter mixture and stir until combined.
- Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Fold in cranberries, nuts, and candied orange peel gently.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for 1-2 hours.
- Shape the risen dough into a loaf or braid and place in a greased pan.
- Let it rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow when tapped.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Serve warm with butter or cream cheese for an extra festive touch.