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Festive Bread

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This Festive Bread is a soft, golden holiday loaf filled with warm spices, citrus zest, and optional dried fruits. Beautifully braided or shaped into a wreath, it’s perfect for Christmas brunch, gifting, or enjoying with a warm drink by the fire. A seasonal showstopper that’s versatile, easy to make, and wonderfully aromatic.

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)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cinnamon.
  3. Add yeast mixture, butter, eggs, and orange zest. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  4. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours or until doubled.
  6. Punch down the dough and knead in raisins or cranberries if using.
  7. Shape into a braid, wreath, or loaf. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  8. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush with egg wash.
  10. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
  11. Cool slightly before slicing or drizzling with glaze if desired.

Notes

  • Add chocolate chips for a sweeter variation.
  • Swap orange zest with lemon for a citrus twist.
  • Brush warm bread with melted butter for extra softness.
  • Sprinkle with pearl sugar or sliced almonds before baking for decoration.
  • For a savory version, use garlic butter, cheese, and herbs instead of sweet mix-ins.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/festive-bread/