Description
This festive Christmas bread is a soft, slightly sweet yeast loaf filled with dried fruits and warm spices. Perfect for holiday mornings or as an edible gift!
Ingredients
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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1/4 cup sugar
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2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/4 tsp nutmeg
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3/4 cup warm milk
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 large egg
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots)
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2 tbsp chopped nuts (optional)
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Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
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Activate Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
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Mix Dough: In a large bowl, whisk flour, salt, and spices. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla. Mix until a dough forms.
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Knead & First Rise: Knead dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
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Add Fruits: Punch down the dough, then knead in dried fruits and nuts.
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Shape & Second Rise: Shape into a loaf or braid, place on a baking sheet, and let rise again for 30–40 minutes.
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Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden and sounds hollow when tapped.
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Cool & Serve: Let cool, dust with powdered sugar, and slice to serve.
Notes
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For extra richness, brush the loaf with melted butter right after baking.
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Soak dried fruits in warm orange juice or rum beforehand for added flavor.
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Can be made ahead and frozen (wrap well).
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread / Holiday Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European / Christmas
Nutrition
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g