Christmas Bread
Christmas Bread Recipe: The Perfect Holiday Treat
Baking Christmas bread has been a cherished tradition in my family for years. There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house, signaling the arrival of the holiday season. This sweet, comforting loaf is not only delightful to eat but also serves as a perfect centerpiece for festive gatherings. Imagine slicing through a golden crust to reveal a soft, fluffy interior, complete with the warmth of spices and the sweetness of dried fruits or chocolate chips. Whether for breakfast, as a snack, or as part of a holiday feast, this bread is sure to bring a sense of joy and togetherness.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There’s plenty to fall in love with when it comes to this Christmas Bread. For one, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect for holiday breakfasts, cozy family dinners, or even as gifts for friends and neighbors. The delightful combination of cinnamon and vanilla makes each slice a festive treat that evokes warmth and nostalgia. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, using basic pantry staples, making it accessible to everyone.
"Baking this Christmas bread was such a delight! The flavors remind me of home and holiday gatherings. My family couldn’t get enough of it!" – Happy Baker
Preparing Christmas Bread
Making Christmas Bread is a straightforward, gratifying process that even beginners can master. This recipe includes some simple steps, leading to beautifully risen, sweet-smelling bread that your loved ones will rave about. Here’s what to expect:
- Combine warm milk with sugar and yeast to create a bubbly mixture.
- Mix your dry ingredients—flour, salt, and cinnamon—before combining them with the wet ingredients.
- Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Allow it to rise, then shape it into a loaf and let it rise a second time before baking.
- Finally, bake until golden brown and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your home!
What You’ll Need
Before you dive in, gather these essential ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Optional: Dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips for added flavor
Feel free to substitute ingredients if you’re looking to make it dairy-free or vegan, either by using plant-based milk or alternatives for the eggs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon.
- Pour the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, fold in any optional ingredients like dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips, and mix until evenly distributed.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan; allow it to rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Christmas Bread shines on its own, but feel free to get creative! Serve it warm with a pat of softened butter or a drizzle of honey. It’s also delicious paired with a side of fresh fruit or alongside a warm cup of spiced cider or cocoa. For an indulgent treat, top a slice with cream cheese frosting or serve it as part of a festive brunch spread.
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your Christmas bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, slice the bread and freeze it, ensuring it’s in an airtight container or freezer bag. It should maintain its quality for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it into a toaster for a warm, toasty slice!
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For best results, use room temperature eggs and melted butter to ensure even mixing.
- Kneading: Don’t rush the kneading process. The longer you knead, the fluffier your bread will be.
- Rising: Find a warm, draft-free spot for the dough to rise—this helps it double in size quicker.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Personalize your Christmas Bread with different flavors and ingredients! Consider adding cardamom for a spicier profile or citrus zest for a refreshing twist. You can also swap in whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, or experiment with various toppings like streusel or a simple sugar glaze.
Your Questions Answered
Q: How long does it take to prep this bread?
A: The total time for prep and rising is about 2-3 hours, including the rising time.
Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes, you can use instant yeast without needing to activate it in warm milk; just mix it straight into the dry ingredients.
Q: How should I reheat leftover bread?
A: You can reheat slices in a toaster, microwave for a few seconds, or warm it in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Embrace the festive season by making this delicious Christmas Bread. Each slice is a delicious reminder of what the holidays are all about—comfort, joy, and togetherness. Happy baking!
Christmas Bread
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon.
- Pour the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, fold in any optional ingredients like dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips, and mix until evenly distributed.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan; allow it to rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
