There’s something truly magical about the holiday season—the aroma of warm spices, the laughter echoing as family gathers, and a kitchen filled with delicious creations. One recipe I absolutely adore making during this time is a fragrant Christmas Bread. The moment it rises and fills your home with sweet, comforting scents, you know it’s going to be something special.
This isn’t just any bread; it’s a cherished tradition that weaves together family stories and festive cheer. Growing up, my grandmother used to bake this every Christmas Eve, and the smell alone would create a sense of anticipation that I can hardly describe. Now, I carry on that love and tradition in my own kitchen, laughing with friends and family as we knead the dough and roll out the spices, sharing stories as we do. Trust me, there’s a reason this recipe has become a holiday staple for many!
Why you’ll love this recipe
Let me tell you why this Christmas Bread deserves a place on your holiday table. First, the texture! It’s soft, pillowy, and just the right amount of sweet, leaving you reaching for one more slice. Plus, the cozy blend of cinnamon and vanilla brings warmth to every bite, evoking memories of festive gatherings and laughter.
And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make! You’ll look like a pro without spending all day in the kitchen. It’s the perfect bonding activity to do with your kids or friends, and who doesn’t want to fill their home with the scent of fresh-baked goodness? Beyond its deliciousness, you can customize this bread with your favorite dried fruits and nuts, making it uniquely yours. Isn’t that so wonderful?
Gather these ingredients
Let’s get back to basics. Here’s what you’ll need for your Christmas Bread:
- All-purpose flour (4 cups): This is the backbone of your bread, giving it structure. Use unbleached for a richer flavor if you can.
- Milk (1 cup): Warm milk helps activate the yeast, creating that lovely rise. If you’re dairy-free, nut milk works too!
- Sugar (1/2 cup): This sweetness is essential for that cozy taste. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup for a twist.
- Butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds moisture and richness. For a vegan option, you can use coconut oil or dairy-free butter.
- Eggs (2): These help bind the dough and provide that lovely golden color. Flax eggs are a great egg replacement if you’re looking for a vegan spin.
- Active dry yeast (1 packet): The key to a fluffy rise. Make sure it’s fresh for best results!
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor beautifully—don’t skip it!
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Oh, the aroma! It brings a warmth that complements the spices wonderfully.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Essential for that festive flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, toast it lightly before adding for a deeper flavor.
- Dried fruit (1/2 cup): Cranberries, raisins, or even chopped apricots! They add sweetness and a chewy texture.
- Chopped nuts (1/4 cup, optional): Walnuts or pecans work fantastically, adding a delightful crunch!
The cooking process explained
Ready to dive in? Here’s how to whip up your very own Christmas Bread, step by step:
-
In a small bowl, warm the milk until it’s just lukewarm—not hot! Mix in the yeast and sugar, then let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s frothy and bubbly. This is where the magic begins!
-
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon. Feel that spice? Yes, it’s already starting!
-
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the yeast mixture, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until a dough starts to form.
-
Time to get your hands dirty! Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This step is critical—think of it as giving the dough a little love!
-
Now, add your dried fruit and optional nuts into the dough, kneading until everything is evenly distributed. It should feel festive already!
-
Place that beautiful dough into a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size—about 1 hour.
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The waiting is almost over!
-
Once risen, give the dough a gentle punch to release the air. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
-
Let it rise again for another 30-45 minutes, and watch it grow!
-
Bake that beauty for 30-35 minutes until it turns a glorious golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. The aroma will have you drooling.
-
Allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing—if you can wait that long!
Best way to enjoy it
This Christmas Bread is delightful on its own but feels even more special when paired with a dollop of butter or a spread of cream cheese. Picture this: a warm slice, slightly toasted with melted butter dripping down the sides. Ugh! So good!
You could also serve it alongside a steaming cup of spiced chai or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. Or toast leftover slices and layer with freshly cut fruit and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive breakfast.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you have any leftovers (which honestly, might be a stretch), here’s how to keep them fresh!
Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop a slice in the toaster or microwave for a quick warm-up.
Pro chef tips
- Activated yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh for a good rise. If it doesn’t bubble in the milk, it’s time for a new packet.
- Kneading technique: Kneading should feel like a bit of a workout, but don’t overdo it! You want the dough to be smooth, not tough.
- Temperature control: If your kitchen is chilly, try placing the bowl in the oven with the light on—just the right kind of warm!
Creative twists
Feel like personalizing this recipe? Here are a few variations to try:
- Spice it up: Add nutmeg or cardamom for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese lover: Fold in some sharp cheddar for a sweet-and-savory twist.
- Garlic herb: Skip the sugar, add roasted garlic and fresh rosemary, and you’ll have a savory version perfect for dinner.
Your questions answered
- How long does it take to make? About 2 hours including rise time.
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes! Just substitute half of it for a heartier loaf.
- Can I add more fruit? Absolutely! Go wild! Dried apricots or cherries would be delightful.
- Is this bread good for gifting? Definitely! Wrap it up nicely, and share the joy!
- How can I tell when it’s done baking? It should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
So, gather those ingredients and get ready to create something truly special. Remember, it’s not just about the bread; it’s about the memories you’ll make and share around the table. Please let me know how it turns out or share any fun twists you tried—I can’t wait to hear about it!
Christmas Bread
Description
This Christmas Bread fills your home with the sweet aroma of spices and serves as a warm centerpiece for your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare the Yeast
Warm the milk until lukewarm, mix in the yeast and sugar. Let sit for 5-10 mins until frothy. -
Mix Dry Ingredients
Whisk together flour, salt, and cinnamon in a large mixing bowl. -
Combine Ingredients
Create a well in dry mixture, add yeast mixture, butter, eggs, and vanilla. Stir until dough forms. -
Knead the Dough
Knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.Think of it as giving the dough some love! -
Add Dried Fruits & Nuts
Incorporate dried fruits and nuts into the dough, kneading until evenly mixed. -
First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. -
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. -
Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place in a greased loaf pan. Let rise for 30-45 minutes. -
Bake the Bread
Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. -
Cool and Serve
Allow to cool on a wire rack before slicing.Try to wait before slicing!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 250kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10g16%
- Saturated Fat 5g25%
- Trans Fat 0g
- Cholesterol 40mg14%
- Sodium 200mg9%
- Potassium 150mg5%
- Total Carbohydrate 36g12%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 6g12%
- Vitamin A 500 IU
- Vitamin C 0 mg
- Calcium 80 mg
- Iron 1.5 mg
- Vitamin D 0 IU
- Vitamin E 0 IU
- Vitamin K 0 mcg
- Thiamin 0.3 mg
- Riboflavin 0.3 mg
- Niacin 1 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.1 mg
- Folate 20 mcg
- Vitamin B12 0.2 mcg
- Biotin 0 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 0.4 mg
- Phosphorus 100 mg
- Iodine 0 mcg
- Magnesium 20 mg
- Zinc 0.5 mg
- Selenium 0 mcg
- Copper 0.2 mg
- Manganese 0.7 mg
- Chromium 0 mcg
- Molybdenum 0 mcg
- Chloride 0 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Customize with your favorite dried fruits and nuts for a personal touch.
