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Festive Christmas Bread

A charming and delightful bread filled with dried fruits and nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: European, Holiday
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Bread Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk Warm, not hot
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries)
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
  3. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Fold in the dried fruits and nuts.
  5. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
  6. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
  7. Place the loaf in a greased baking pan and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Let it cool before slicing and serving.

Notes

Serve with butter or cream cheese and pair with hot cocoa or spiced mulled wine. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.