Indulge in the warmth and joy of the holiday season with our exquisite Christmas bread recipe. This delightful bread is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table. Bursting with seasonal spices and vibrant fruits, it’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a gift for loved ones. Let’s embark on a baking adventure that will fill your home with festive aromas and create cherished memories.
Ingredients
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 10 slices. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 50 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 slice): Calories: 180, Protein: 3g, Carbohydrates: 28g, Fats: 7g, Fiber: 1g. This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until moistened.
5. Gently fold in the cranberries and nuts.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
7. Smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
10. Once cooled, slice and serve, or store for later.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, maple syrup can replace sugar for a different sweetness profile. Dried fruits like raisins or apricots can also be used instead of cranberries.
Serving and Pairings
This festive bread pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee. It can also be served with cream cheese or butter for a delightful breakfast treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
– Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rising.
– Avoid opening the oven door frequently while baking.
– Use a toothpick to test doneness, not just visual cues.
– If the top browns too quickly, cover it with foil.
Helpful Tips
– Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
– Let the bread cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
– Experiment with different nuts and dried fruits for unique flavors.
– Consider adding a drizzle of glaze for extra sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but they are more tart. You may want to adjust the sugar accordingly to balance the flavors.
How can I tell if the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This bread can be made a day in advance and stored properly, enhancing the flavors overnight.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can create a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix to make this bread gluten-free, but the texture may vary slightly.
Conclusion
This Christmas bread recipe is a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. Its rich flavors and festive appearance make it a perfect treat for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy the spirit of the season with each delicious slice!
Christmas Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chopped nuts walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until moistened.
- Gently fold in the cranberries and nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Once cooled, slice and serve, or store for later.
Nutrition
