Description
A soft, buttery Festive Christmas Bread braided and baked to golden perfection, filled with warm spices, candied fruit, and a hint of citrus — perfect for holiday breakfasts or gifting.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup chopped candied orange peel
- 1/2 cup mixed dried or candied fruit (cherries, raisins, or cranberries)
- 1 tbsp grated orange zest
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 2 tbsp sliced almonds (optional, for topping)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Whisk in melted butter, eggs, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and knead in the candied fruit, orange peel, and zest.
- Divide dough into 3 equal pieces, roll into ropes, and braid together. Pinch the ends to seal and form into a wreath or loaf shape.
- Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the dough with beaten egg and sprinkle with sliced almonds if desired.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute milk with eggnog during the holidays.
- Add white chocolate chips for a sweeter variation.
- This bread freezes well for up to 2 months; reheat before serving.
- Perfect for serving with butter or spiced jam at Christmas breakfast.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: European