Ah, the magic of the holidays! There’s something truly special about gathering around a warm loaf of freshly baked bread that fills the house with the most delightful aroma. These holiday bread recipes are a cherished tradition in my family, and I can’t help but smile when I think of the laughter and warmth shared over slices of homemade goodness. I remember my grandmother teaching me how to knead the dough, her hands guiding mine, and the way we’d wait eagerly for it to rise, our hearts full of anticipation. Trust me, there’s nothing like biting into a slice of soft, fluffy bread, whether it’s slathered with butter or enjoyed with a festive spread. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious journey of baking together! You won’t regret it, I promise!

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C, just warm to the touch)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Prepare the Holiday Bread

Now, let’s get our hands a little floury and embark on this delightful bread-making adventure! I promise you, the process is as fun as the end result is delicious.

Activating the Yeast

First things first, we need to wake up that yeast! In a small bowl, mix your warm milk with a teaspoon of the sugar (this gives the yeast a little snack). Sprinkle the yeast on top, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. You should see it foam and bubble as it activates—this means it’s ready to work its magic!

Mixing the Dry Ingredients

While the yeast is doing its thing, grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the flour, the remaining sugar, and the salt. Make sure everything is well combined; this step is super important for an even texture in your bread.

Combining Ingredients

Now it’s time for the fun part! Make a well in the center of your dry mix and add in the softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Then, pour in your bubbly yeast mixture. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently mix everything together until it forms a shaggy dough. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy at first; that’s normal!

Kneading and Rising

Once your dough comes together, it’s time to knead! Dust your countertop with a little flour, and turn the dough out. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This is where the magic happens! After that, place your dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size—about 1 hour. I like to turn on my oven for a minute or two and then turn it off; it creates a cozy environment for rising!

Shaping and Baking

Once the dough has risen beautifully, gently punch it down to release the air. Now, shape it into a loaf by rolling it out and tucking the ends under. Place it in a greased loaf pan, cover it again, and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while it’s rising. When it’s puffy and ready, pop it in the oven for 30-35 minutes until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Oh, the smell will be heavenly!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the numbers! Keep in mind that these values are just estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying with this delicious holiday bread.

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 180
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Total Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 4g

So, whether you’re spreading a bit of butter on a slice or enjoying it plain, you can feel good about indulging in this festive bread. It’s a tasty treat that’s also kind of wholesome, don’t you think?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for last-minute holiday baking!
• Flavorful: With a hint of vanilla and the richness of butter, this bread is packed with delightful flavor in every slice.
• Soft and Fluffy: The texture is light and airy, making it irresistible fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or dried fruits—there’s no limit to how you can make it your own!
• Perfect for Gifting: Wrap it up with a festive ribbon, and you have a heartfelt gift that anyone will appreciate this holiday season.
• Family Tradition: This bread can easily become a cherished part of your holiday gatherings, just like it is in my family!
• Versatile: Enjoy it plain, with butter, or as part of a holiday brunch spread. It fits in perfectly with any festive meal.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s get you on the path to bread-baking glory! Here are some of my favorite pro tips that will help ensure your holiday bread turns out absolutely perfect.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast! Fresh yeast means a better rise and fluffier bread. If your yeast doesn’t foam when activated, it’s time for a new packet.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother dough and ensures everything incorporates evenly.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy twist. You can also throw in some orange or lemon zest for a refreshing touch.
• Nuts and Dried Fruits: Add your favorite nuts, like walnuts or pecans, or toss in some dried cranberries or raisins for extra flavor and texture. Just remember to adjust the flour slightly if you add a lot of extras!
• Let it Rise! Be patient during the rising times. If your kitchen is cool, it might take a bit longer, and that’s okay! A good rise results in a lighter loaf.
• Check for Doneness: When baking, look for that beautiful golden-brown color and a hollow sound when you tap the bottom of the loaf. If you have an instant-read thermometer, it should read around 190°F (88°C) when done!
• Storing Bread: To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap. If you know you won’t eat it all, slice it up and freeze for future toasty goodness!

Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to making a holiday bread that everyone will rave about. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve baked this delightful holiday bread, let’s talk about how to serve it up to really impress your family and friends! Trust me, the right pairings can elevate your bread experience to a whole new level.

• Butter and Jam: Nothing beats a warm slice of bread slathered with rich butter and a dollop of your favorite fruit jam. Strawberry, raspberry, or even a tangy orange marmalade—pick your favorite!
• Cheese Platter: Create a cozy cheese board with a selection of creamy cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, alongside your holiday bread. Add some nuts and dried fruits for an elegant touch.
• Breakfast Delight: Serve it alongside a hearty breakfast spread! Think scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or even a sweet breakfast casserole. It’s perfect for holiday brunches!
• Soup Companion: Pair your bread with a warm bowl of soup—something like butternut squash or creamy tomato. The bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Festive Spreads: Try offering a selection of spreads like honey, cream cheese, or flavored butter (think garlic or herb-infused!). These add a fun twist and let everyone customize their slice.
• Toast It Up: If you have any leftovers, toast it the next day for an extra crispy treat! Top it with avocado and a sprinkle of salt for a trendy snack.

These serving ideas will not only showcase your beautiful holiday bread but also create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your gatherings. Enjoy the smiles and satisfaction as everyone digs into this delicious creation!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve created this festive masterpiece, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious bread fresh for as long as possible! Proper storage is key to maintaining its wonderful flavor and texture.

To store your holiday bread, make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it up. I like to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. You can also place it in an airtight container, which works like a charm. Just be sure to store it at room temperature if you plan to eat it within a few days.

If you want to keep it longer, slice the bread and freeze it! Just wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can grab a slice whenever you’re craving a taste of the holidays. It’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When it’s time to enjoy your bread again, there’s no need to worry about complicated reheating. For slices, just pop them in the toaster for a warm, crispy treat. If you’re reheating a whole loaf, wrap it in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Trust me, your kitchen will smell festive all over again!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor the joy of your holiday bread long after baking day. Enjoy every last bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. Just keep in mind that the texture might be a bit denser.

What can I use if I don’t have warm milk?
If you don’t have warm milk on hand, you can use water instead! Just make sure it’s warm (about the same temperature as the milk would be) to activate the yeast properly.

How long can I store the holiday bread?
You can store your bread at room temperature for about 3-4 days in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, slice it and freeze it as I mentioned earlier!

Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
Yes, yes, yes! Chocolate chips would be a fantastic addition. Just fold them in during the combining ingredients step for a sweet twist.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Oh no! If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh, and the milk is at the right temperature. If it’s too cold or hot, the yeast won’t activate. Don’t lose hope—try again!

Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the dough up to the first rise, then punch it down, shape it, and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature and rise again before baking.

What can I use instead of vanilla extract?
If you don’t have vanilla extract, you can skip it or use almond extract for a different flavor profile. Just remember, almond extract is stronger, so use a little less.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend! Just make sure it includes xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the texture.

How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
Your bread is done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when you tap the bottom. If it’s a bit underbaked, just pop it back in for a few more minutes. The smell will tell you when it’s almost ready!

Holiday Bread Recipes to Brighten Your Festive Season

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A festive bread recipe perfect for holiday gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 eggs
• 1 packet yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Activate the yeast in warm milk with a bit of sugar.
2. Mix flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, and vanilla to the dry ingredients.
4. Combine the milk and yeast mixture with the dry ingredients.
5. Knead the dough until smooth.
6. Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
7. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf.
8. Place the loaf in a greased pan and let it rise again.
9. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
10. Cool before slicing and serve.

Notes

• Can add nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor.
• Store in an airtight container for freshness.
• Great for gifting during the holidays.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: holiday bread recipes