Christmas Bread: The Ultimate Holiday Treat

Scale

3 cups all-purpose flour

2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast

1 cup warm milk

¼ cup melted butter

¼ cup sugar

2 eggs

½ tsp salt

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp nutmeg

1 tbsp orange zest

½ cup raisins or dried cranberries

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1. Activate yeast in warm milk and sugar for 10 minutes until foamy.

2. Mix flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest in a large bowl.

3. Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture; mix until a dough forms.

4. Knead dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.

6. Punch down, knead in raisins, and shape into loaf or braid.

7. Let rise 30 minutes more, brush with melted butter.

8. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden.

9. Cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

For a festive touch, soak raisins in orange juice or rum before adding.

You can also sprinkle pearl sugar or sliced almonds on top before baking.

Freezes beautifully; wrap tightly and reheat before serving.