Name: Festive Bread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: European-Inspired
Ingredients: 3½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour); 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet); ¾ cup warm milk (110°F/43°C); ¼ cup sugar; ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ cup raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts (optional); 1 egg (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash); ½ cup powdered sugar (optional glaze); 1–2 tablespoons orange juice (optional glaze); ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional glaze)

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This Festive Bread is soft, golden, and filled with rich holiday flavors. I love making it during the festive season because it fills my home with the warm aroma of freshly baked bread and sweet spices. It’s slightly sweet, beautifully decorated, and perfect for serving at celebrations or gifting to friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both beautiful and delicious. The bread turns out fluffy with a tender crumb and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s wonderful on its own, toasted with butter, or even turned into French toast the next day. The best part is how versatile it is — I can shape it into a wreath, braid, or loaf depending on the occasion.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour (or bread flour)
Instant yeast
Warm milk
Sugar
Unsalted butter, softened
Eggs
Salt
Orange zest
Ground cinnamon
Raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts (optional)
Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tablespoon milk)

Directions

I start by combining warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. I let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon.
I add the yeast mixture, butter, eggs, and orange zest, then mix until a soft dough forms.
I knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
I place it in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
I punch down the dough and knead in the raisins or cranberries if using.
I shape the dough into a braid, wreath, or round loaf, then place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
I cover it again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
I brush it with egg wash and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown.
I let it cool slightly before slicing or glazing if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes one large loaf (about 10–12 slices). It takes around 20 minutes to prepare, 1½ hours to rise, and 30 minutes to bake.

Variations

I sometimes add chocolate chips instead of dried fruit for a dessert-style loaf.
For extra flavor, I drizzle a simple orange glaze over the cooled bread.
I’ve also made a savory version with herbs, cheese, and garlic butter.
A sprinkle of pearl sugar on top adds a festive touch.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or a bread bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm slices in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes or toast them lightly. The bread also freezes beautifully — I wrap it in foil and freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the dough, let it rise once, then refrigerate it overnight. I bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant?

Absolutely — I just proof it in warm milk with sugar for 10 minutes before mixing it in.

Can I bake this in a loaf pan?

Yes, I simply shape the dough into a loaf and bake for the same amount of time.

How do I keep the bread soft?

I wrap it tightly after it cools completely to retain moisture. A light brushing of melted butter also helps keep it tender.

Can I add a glaze?

Definitely! I love mixing powdered sugar, orange juice, and vanilla for a simple festive glaze.

Conclusion

This Festive Bread is one of my favorite holiday traditions. It’s soft, aromatic, and beautiful enough for any celebration. I love how it brings warmth and joy to the table, whether I serve it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Every slice feels like a little celebration of the season.