Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon
A beautifully sliced festive Christmas bread loaf on a rustic wooden breadboard, topped with powdered sugar and colorful sprinkles, surrounded by cinnamon sticks, holly berries, and decorative holiday ornaments, with a warm, inviting atmosphere and soft natural lighting accentuating the textures and vibrant colors.

Festive Christmas Bread – A Cozy Holiday Baking Treat

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A festive Christmas bread loaf that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and dried fruits, baked to a golden perfection, perfect for holiday celebrations.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
  • Yield: 1 large loaf

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, activate yeast with warm milk and a teaspoon of sugar. Let sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the activated yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.
  3. Incorporate dried cranberries and pecans into the dough. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a festive braid or round loaf. Place on a greased baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

  • For a sweeter loaf, add a sprinkle of sugar or glaze after baking.
  • Use your favorite dried fruits and nuts for personalized flavor.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Holiday
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 210 Kcal
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 47mg