Festive Christmas Bread Recipe

There’s something magical about baking during Christmas. The sweet aroma of freshly baked bread fills the home with warmth and joy.

This Festive Christmas Bread Recipe captures that cozy holiday feeling perfectly. It’s soft, slightly sweet, and filled with rich flavors of butter, eggs, and dried fruits.

Each bite feels like a warm hug on a cold winter day. Whether served for breakfast or shared with loved ones during Christmas dinner, this bread always delights.

This Festive Christmas Bread Recipe is simple, beautiful, and festive enough to impress your guests. It’s perfect for making ahead and keeps well for days.

You can even drizzle icing or dust with powdered sugar for an extra holiday touch.

Let’s bake this bread that embodies Christmas cheer in every slice — a heartwarming treat for your table.

When I First Introduced To It

I first discovered this Festive Christmas Bread Recipe at my grandmother’s kitchen. She would bake it every December, filling the house with heavenly smells.

The golden crust and fruity aroma were irresistible. Since then, it’s become my favorite Christmas tradition.

I’ve perfected the recipe over the years, making it easier and more delicious while keeping its nostalgic flavor alive.

Equipment List

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Loaf pan or round baking dish
• Clean kitchen towel
• Wire cooling rack
• Oven

Ingredients List

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) instant yeast
• ½ cup warm milk
• ¼ cup warm water
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup chopped candied fruits
• ¼ cup raisins
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp orange zest

Step by Step (Preparation)

1. Warm milk and water gently until lukewarm.
2. Add yeast and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
4. Add butter and eggs to the yeast mixture.
5. Mix wet and dry ingredients together.
6. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
7. Add candied fruits, raisins, and orange zest.
8. Cover bowl and let dough rise for one hour.
9. Punch down dough gently after rising.
10. Shape into a loaf or round bread form.
11. Place in a greased baking pan.
12. Cover again and let rise for 30 minutes.
13. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
14. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown.
15. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Recipe Tips

1. Use fresh yeast for the best rise.
2. Add more fruits for extra sweetness.
3. Brush the top with butter for shine.
4. Let bread cool fully before cutting.
5. Store in an airtight container for freshness.

What to Serve with Festive Christmas Bread Recipe

1. Hot Cocoa:
Rich hot cocoa pairs perfectly with the sweet bread. The chocolate enhances the fruity flavor.

2. Creamy Butter Spread:
A simple butter spread melts beautifully on warm slices. It adds creamy richness.

3. Fresh Fruit Salad:
Light and colorful fruit salad balances the bread’s sweetness. It keeps the meal refreshing.

Conclusion

This Festive Christmas Bread Recipe is a celebration in itself. Each slice is soft, flavorful, and filled with holiday charm.

Bake it for family gatherings, Christmas morning, or festive dinners. It’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress everyone.

With simple ingredients and joyful taste, this bread will become your favorite Christmas baking tradition for years to come.