Christmas Bread Recipe (Inspired by an Italian Chef)

 

This recipe was taught to me by a famous Italian chef. Now I prepare Christmas bread this way, and it’s become a holiday tradition in my home.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tsp dry yeast
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1/2 cup candied fruits (such as orange peel and citron)
• 1/2 cup raisins (soaked in warm water and drained)
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the melted butter, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Add the frothy yeast mixture and stir well.
4. Form Dough: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or using a stand mixer. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Add Fruits and Nuts: Gently fold in the candied fruits, raisins, and slivered almonds until evenly distributed.
6. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
7. Shape the Bread: Punch down the dough to release air. Shape it into a round or loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased loaf pan.
8. Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough and let it rise again for about 45 minutes.
9. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Cool and Dust: Let the bread cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust it generously with powdered sugar for a festive finish.

Enjoy!

This Christmas bread is slightly sweet, soft, and aromatic, perfect for sharing during the holidays with a cup of coffee or tea.