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Festive Christmas Bread: A Joyous Holiday Treat!
Ah, the magic of the holiday season! One of my absolute favorite traditions is making Festive Christmas Bread, a delight that fills my kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. This recipe reminds me of my grandmother, who would whisk up a batch every Christmas morning, turning our home into a cozy bakery filled with sweet scents. It’s not just the taste that takes me back; it’s the memories of laughter, flour fights, and that one time I spilled an entire bag of flour on the floor making it! Trust me, nothing says “joyful chaos” like a surprise flour explosion just as you’re about to unveil your delicious creation.
The beauty of this bread lies in its colorfulness and the way it brings people together. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a holiday gathering or simply want to indulge in something festive and sweet, this bread is sure to spread cheer all around. Let’s dive into the ingredients and show you just how easy it is to make this holiday staple!
What’s in Festive Christmas Bread?
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of our bread—ensure it’s fresh for the fluffiest results!
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetness is key, and this will give our bread that lovely golden crust.
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast: This little packet of magic is what makes our bread rise and gives it that delightful texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: A little pinch of salt enhances the flavors beautifully. Don’t skip it!
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A warm spice that screams “holiday time!” and adds that familiar heartwarming aroma.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Just a hint of nutmeg brings a cozy depth to our festive bread.
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed (about 110°F): Warm milk helps activate the yeast and makes our bread rise perfectly.
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted: Because butter makes everything better! It adds richness that complements the sweet flavors.
- 2 large eggs: These help bind everything together and contribute to the fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla goes a long way in bringing all the flavors together.
- ½ cup vibrant red and green sprinkles: The star of the show! These festive sprinkles make your bread not only delicious but visually stunning.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For our icing that’s almost as sweet as the memories you’ll create with it!
- 2 tablespoons milk (for icing): To help achieve that perfect drizzle consistency for our icing.
- Additional sprinkles for decoration: Because more sprinkles equal more fun!
Is Festive Christmas Bread Good for You?
While we can’t exactly say this bread is a health food, let’s chat about its benefits! The whole milk provides calcium, while the eggs pack a protein punch. Plus, the warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg can boost your mood and perhaps even help regulate blood sugar levels a bit. It’s all about balance!
Now, if you’re watching your sugar intake or just trying to be mindful, keep in mind that this bread is definitely a treat, rich in sugars and carbs. I always say: indulge in moderation, and don’t forget to savor each slice. Let’s keep it festive, folks!
Ingredients List
- All-purpose flour: 3 ½ cups
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup
- Active dry yeast: 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Ground nutmeg: ½ teaspoon
- Whole milk (warmed): 1 cup
- Unsalted butter (melted): ⅓ cup
- Large eggs: 2
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Vibrant red and green sprinkles: ½ cup
- Powdered sugar: 1 cup
- Milk (for icing): 2 tablespoons
- Additional sprinkles for decoration: As desired
How to Make Festive Christmas Bread?
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk to combine nicely.
- In a separate bowl, mix the warmed milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add this liquid mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until everything is just combined.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, ½ cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once it has risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Gently fold the red and green sprinkles into the dough.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the rim of the pan.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the icing, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle this icing over the cooled bread.
- Finish decorating with more sprinkles on top of the icing. Slice and serve your festive Christmas bread with joy!
Sprinkle Some Extra Joy!
This bread is perfect for holiday gatherings and can bring a colorful touch to your Christmas table. It pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of cocoa or a soothing coffee. If you want to add a unique twist, try incorporating dried fruits or nuts to the dough before baking!
Don’t forget, this tasty treat can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days (if it lasts that long!). So go ahead, give this recipe a whirl, and let me know how your festive baking goes. I can’t wait to hear about your delicious holiday adventures and any quirky mishaps you might have along the way! Enjoy and happy baking!
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