Christmas Breads for Gifts: 7 Joyful Holiday Recipes

Name: Christmas Breads for Gifts: 7 Joyful Holiday Recipes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: PT-489894H53M41S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup warm milk; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 1 packet active dry yeast; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup mixed dried fruits; 1/2 cup chopped nuts

November 18, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, and gifting homemade breads is one of my favorite traditions! Imagine the joy on your loved ones’ faces when they unwrap a beautifully wrapped loaf of freshly baked bread, infused with the warm spices of Christmas. These *christmas breads for gifts* are not only delicious but also show that you’ve put in the time and care to create something special just for them. Each slice is a little piece of love, packed with vibrant dried fruits and crunchy nuts, bringing warmth and comfort during the chilly winter days. Trust me, when you share these delightful loaves, you’ll be spreading holiday cheer with every bite!

Ingredients List

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup mixed dried fruits (like raisins, cranberries, and apricots)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)

How to Prepare Instructions

Getting your hands into the dough and creating these delightful *christmas breads for gifts* is such a rewarding experience! Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to baking up some holiday magic.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

First things first, we need to wake up that yeast! In a bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. The milk should be about 110°F (not too hot, or you’ll kill the yeast!). Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it’s frothy. This is a crucial step—if your yeast doesn’t bubble, your bread won’t rise, and we definitely want fluffy, delicious loaves!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Now, let’s add some sweetness! To the yeast mixture, stir in the sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. This part is all about getting everything blended together nicely. I like to use a whisk to make sure there are no lumps and everything is well combined—trust me, it makes a difference!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together your flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently. You want to mix until everything is just combined. Don’t worry if it looks a bit shaggy at this point; we’ll fix that in the next step!

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Time to get your hands messy! Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes. You’re looking for a smooth, elastic texture. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it. You want a dough that feels soft, not dry!

Step 5: Add Fruits and Nuts

Once your dough is kneaded, it’s time to fold in those delicious dried fruits and nuts. I find that the best way to do this is to flatten the dough slightly and sprinkle the fruits and nuts on top, then fold it over and knead gently until they’re evenly distributed. This adds such a lovely texture and flavor to your bread!

Step 6: First Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Now, let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This step is essential—it’s when the yeast works its magic!

Step 7: Shape the Loaves

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently—this is my favorite part! It’s like giving the dough a little wake-up call. Then, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into two loaves. Don’t stress too much about perfection; each loaf has its own character!

Step 8: Second Rise

Place your shaped loaves in greased pans and cover them again with the towel. Let them rise for another 30 minutes. You’ll notice they’ll puff up nicely, and this is what gives us that lovely light texture!

Step 9: Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once your loaves have risen, pop them in the oven for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown on top and sound hollow when you tap them. Oh, the smell will be heavenly!

Step 10: Cooling

Once baked, carefully remove the loaves from the pans and let them cool on a wire rack. This step is super important—if you wrap them while they’re still warm, they can get soggy. Patience is key here! Once they’re cool, feel free to wrap them up with love for your special holiday gifts!

Tips for Success

Making these *christmas breads for gifts* is a delightful journey, but I’ve got some handy tips to ensure you nail it every time! Let’s keep things simple and stress-free so you can focus on the joy of baking.

Check Your Yeast: Always make sure your yeast is fresh! If it doesn’t bubble and froth when activated, it’s time to get a new packet. Trust me, stale yeast can ruin your bread.
Temperature Matters: When mixing the warm milk, make sure it’s just warm to the touch—about 110°F (43°C). Too hot will kill the yeast, and too cold won’t activate it. A simple kitchen thermometer can be a lifesaver!
Dough Consistency: As you knead, the dough should be smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour, but don’t overdo it! You want a soft, pliable dough, not a dry brick.
Warm Rising Environment: Yeast loves warmth! If your kitchen is chilly, try placing your dough in a slightly warmed oven (just turn it on for a minute and then turn it off) or near a sunny window. This will help it rise beautifully.
Don’t Rush the Rises: Allow the dough to rise fully during both the first and second rises. Rushing this step will lead to denser bread. Patience is key, and the aroma will be worth the wait!
Keep an Eye on Baking: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your loaves a few minutes before the recommended baking time. You want them golden brown and sounding hollow when tapped.
Cool Before Wrapping: Let your loaves cool completely on a wire rack before wrapping. This prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess. It’s hard to wait, but your gifts will be so much better for it!
Get Creative: Don’t hesitate to customize your breads! Experiment with different nuts or dried fruits. You can even add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive twist!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set for baking success! Enjoy the process and the smiles that come with sharing your homemade breads this holiday season.

Nutritional Information Section

Here’s the estimated nutritional information for a typical serving size of one slice of these delightful *christmas breads for gifts*. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, so your specific results may vary a bit depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes you use.

Calories: 200
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Sugar: 10g

These breads not only make for a thoughtful gift but also offer a bit of nutrition with all those lovely dried fruits and nuts mixed in. Enjoy sharing these homemade delights, knowing they pack a bit of goodness along with the holiday cheer!

FAQ Section

Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried?

While you can use fresh fruits, I recommend sticking with dried fruits for this recipe. Fresh fruits contain more moisture, which can make the bread soggy and affect its texture. Dried fruits add a lovely chewiness and concentrated sweetness that really enhances the flavor of the bread. If you’re set on using fresh fruits, just be sure to adjust the amount and keep an eye on the consistency of your dough!

How do I store the bread?

To keep your *christmas breads for gifts* fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in the container. Avoid refrigerating them, as that can dry them out. Just remember to keep them in a cool, dry place!

Can I freeze the bread?

Absolutely! Freezing is a great option if you want to make your breads ahead of time. Just let them cool completely after baking, then wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the loaves overnight in the refrigerator. You can also let them sit at room temperature for a few hours. No need to reheat—unless you love that warm, fresh-baked taste, in which case a quick pop in the oven is perfect!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deliciously Homemade: There’s just something special about the taste of freshly baked bread that you can’t get from store-bought. Each bite is packed with love and flavor!
Perfect for Gifting: These breads make delightful gifts that show you care. Wrapping them up beautifully adds a personal touch that everyone appreciates.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to mix and match your favorite dried fruits and nuts! This recipe allows for so much creativity, making each loaf unique.
Quick to Make: With just a little bit of prep and rising time, you can have two loaves ready to go in under two hours. Perfect for those busy holiday schedules!
Aromatic Holiday Cheer: The smell of these breads baking will fill your home with the warm, inviting scents of the season—talk about holiday spirit!
Nutritious & Wholesome: With the addition of dried fruits and nuts, these breads not only taste good but also provide a bit of nutrition, making them a thoughtful gift option.
Fun Activity: Baking is a wonderful way to unwind and get into the holiday spirit. Gather your loved ones and make it a fun family activity!
Great for All Occasions: While they’re perfect for Christmas, these breads can be enjoyed year-round, making them a versatile recipe to keep on hand.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.