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Festive Christmas Bread

A delightful loaf featuring a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, loaded with dried fruits and crunchy nuts, ideal for the festive season.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: Baked Goods, Holiday
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk Warm milk for activating yeast
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 2 pieces eggs
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
Add-ins
  • 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries)
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm milk, letting it rest for 5 minutes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
  3. Add your yeast mixture, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry mix.
  4. Knead that dough for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
  5. Gently fold in the dried fruits and nuts.
Rising
  1. Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour or until it’s doubled in size.
  2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and shape it into a loaf.
  3. Place it in a greased baking pan and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Baking
  1. Slide your loaf into the oven and let it bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown.
  2. Let it cool before slicing.

Notes

Serve with butter, honey, or cream cheese. Store in plastic wrap for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.