Introduction
As the holiday season approaches, the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air, beckoning us to gather with loved ones and create lasting memories. One particular treat that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the season is Holiday Sweet Bread with Dried Fruits. This delightful bread, studded with an assortment of colorful dried fruits, not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a festive touch to any holiday table.
This recipe is perfect for young professionals who love homemade food but often find themselves short on time. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total time of under two hours, you can easily whip up this delightful loaf, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—spending quality time with family and friends. Imagine slicing into a warm loaf, the sweet scent of cinnamon mingling with the bright notes of orange zest, while the chewy texture of dried fruits adds a delightful contrast.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, looking for a thoughtful gift, or simply indulging in a treat for yourself, this bread is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the comforting world of baking this holiday season!
Key Ingredients
Warm Milk (1 cup)
Warm milk acts as the base for our dough, providing a cozy environment for the yeast to activate and helping to create a soft texture in the finished bread.
Active Dry Yeast (2 teaspoons)
This key ingredient is essential for fermentation, allowing the dough to rise and creating that light, airy structure we love in sweet bread.
Sugar (1/2 cup)
Sugar not only sweetens the bread but also nourishes the yeast, enhancing the fermentation process and contributing to a beautiful golden crust.
Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup)
Softened butter enriches the dough, adding moisture and flavor, while also contributing to a tender crumb in the final loaf.
Eggs (2)
Eggs provide structure and richness, helping to create a soft and fluffy texture in the bread while also adding a hint of flavor.
All-Purpose Flour (4 cups)
Flour is the backbone of our bread, providing the necessary gluten structure that gives the bread its shape and chewiness.
Salt (1 teaspoon)
Salt enhances the overall flavor of the bread and helps to regulate yeast activity, ensuring a balanced rise.
Mixed Dried Fruits (1 cup)
A colorful mix of dried fruits, such as raisins, apricots, and cranberries, adds sweetness, texture, and visual appeal to the bread.
Orange Zest (1 tablespoon)
This ingredient adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the sweetness of the dried fruits and enhances the holiday flavor profile.
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
Cinnamon infuses the bread with a warm, spicy flavor, evoking the essence of holiday baking and comforting traditions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When it comes to holiday baking, few treats can match the charm of Holiday Sweet Bread with Dried Fruits. This recipe is not just about satisfying your sweet cravings; it’s about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that brings loved ones together. With its rich flavors and delightful textures, this bread is sure to become a centerpiece at your holiday gatherings.
What makes this recipe a standout is its simplicity and versatility. Young professionals will appreciate how quickly it comes together, with just 15 minutes of prep time. The combination of warm milk, active dry yeast, and a mix of colorful dried fruits creates a loaf that’s both visually appealing and mouthwateringly delicious. Imagine sharing slices of this golden-brown bread with family and friends, each bite bursting with sweetness and flavor.
Not only is this bread a treat for the taste buds, but it also fills your home with a nostalgic aroma that evokes the spirit of the holidays. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or toasted with a bit of butter, this Holiday Sweet Bread with Dried Fruits is a cherished recipe that you’ll want to make year after year. Plus, it’s a thoughtful gift for those who appreciate homemade goodies. Why not give it a try and create your own holiday memories?
Variations
When it comes to customizing your Holiday Sweet Bread with Dried Fruits, the possibilities are endless! For those who crave a touch of chocolate, consider adding chocolate chips or chunks to the dough. This sweet addition will create a decadent contrast with the fruity flavors, making every bite a delightful surprise.
Another wonderful variation is to experiment with the types of dried fruits you use. While the classic combination of raisins, apricots, and cranberries is delicious, feel free to include other fruits like dried figs, dates, or even tropical fruits such as mango or pineapple for a unique twist. Each fruit brings its own flavor profile, adding depth and excitement to your bread.
If you’re looking for a nutty crunch, consider folding in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. This not only enhances the texture but also complements the sweetness of the fruit beautifully. With these variations, your Holiday Sweet Bread becomes a canvas for your creativity, ensuring that each loaf is as unique as the celebrations it accompanies.
Cooking Tips and Notes
When baking your Holiday Sweet Bread with Dried Fruits, a few tips can enhance your experience and the final product. First, ensure that your milk is warm but not hot; this temperature is ideal for activating the yeast without killing it. Patience is key—allow the dough enough time to rise in a warm place, as this step is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture.
For added richness, consider using slightly more butter than the recipe calls for. This can make a noticeable difference in flavor and moisture. If you’re short on time, remember that you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight, making it a convenient option for busy holiday schedules.
Lastly, this bread can be customized with your favorite spices. A pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract can elevate the flavors, giving your bread a unique twist. Following these simple tips will ensure your bread is not only delicious but also a delightful part of your holiday celebrations.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your Holiday Sweet Bread with Dried Fruits, the options are as delightful as the bread itself. Serve it warm, fresh out of the oven, for a comforting treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. A spread of butter or cream cheese can enhance the flavors, making each slice even more indulgent.
For a festive twist, consider toasting slices and topping them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey. This simple addition transforms your bread into an elegant dessert, perfect for holiday gatherings. Additionally, serving it alongside a fruit compote or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the experience, creating a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors.
If you’re looking to impress guests, try making a French toast casserole with this bread. The rich, fruity flavors will add a unique touch that everyone will love. No matter how you choose to serve it, this bread is sure to be a highlight of your holiday celebrations!
Time Breakdown
To make your Holiday Sweet Bread with Dried Fruits, here’s a quick overview of the time involved.
Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking/Baking: 35 minutes
Total: 1 hour 50 minutes
For efficiency, prepare all your ingredients and utensils before starting, which can help streamline the process and make your baking experience more enjoyable.
Nutritional Facts
Enjoying a slice of Holiday Sweet Bread with Dried Fruits not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a balance of nutrients. Each slice contains approximately 200 calories, making it a delightful yet moderate indulgence. With 10 grams of sugar and 4 grams of protein, this bread is a tasty option for breakfast or a snack. It also offers a touch of fiber, which can help with digestion, making it a wholesome treat for the holiday season.
FAQ based on “People Also Ask” section
What is Holiday Sweet Bread with Dried Fruits?
Holiday Sweet Bread with Dried Fruits is a delightful bread recipe that features a blend of warm milk, sugar, eggs, and a variety of dried fruits like raisins and cranberries. This sweet, soft bread is perfect for celebrations and gatherings, bringing warmth to your holiday table.
How do I store leftover Holiday Sweet Bread?
To keep your Holiday Sweet Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag, allowing you to enjoy it later.
Can I add different fruits or nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! The beauty of this bread lies in its versatility. Feel free to substitute or add other dried fruits like apricots or figs, and consider mixing in some chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Experimenting with ingredients can lead to delightful new variations!
What can I serve with Holiday Sweet Bread?
This sweet bread is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with butter, cream cheese, or a fruit compote. It can also be transformed into French toast for a festive breakfast treat, making it a versatile addition to your holiday menu.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Holiday Sweet Bread with Dried Fruits is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and traditions that brings people together. With its delightful combination of sweet and fruity elements, this bread is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family breakfasts.
Not only is it simple to make, but it also offers versatility with various ingredient modifications. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with butter, this bread is sure to become a beloved staple in your holiday repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and share this delightful creation with friends and family. Cook, save, share, and comment on your experiences—your holiday baking journey starts here!
Print
Holiday Sweet Bread with Dried Fruits
A delightful holiday bread studded with dried fruits.
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, apricots, and cranberries)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
- Mix in sugar, butter, and eggs.
- In another bowl, whisk flour and salt; gradually add to milk mixture.
- Knead dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
- Incorporate dried fruits, orange zest, and cinnamon.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Shape dough into a loaf and place in a greased pan.
- Allow to rise again for 30 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use slightly more butter.
- This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: breads
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg