The Gourmet Mama

I’m a big fan of candied fruit and this time of year, I’m always looking for a good way to use it. This Christmas bread is perfect! You can also glaze it with a bit of icing sugar and water for sweeter fare and it makes a great Christmas breakfast!

Christmas Bread

Makes 1 loaf

1 Tblsp. yeast
1/4 c. warm water
1 c. warmed milk
1/2 c. butter, room temp
1/3 c. sugar
1 tsp. salt
4-5 c. flour
1 Tblsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 c. candied fruit
1 c. raisins

Mix the sugar, warm water and yeast. Set aside.

In a large bowl, mix 4 cups of flour, salt and spices. In another bowl, mix the milk, butter and egg. Beat in half the flour mixture and add the yeast mixture.

Mix in the remaining flour and the fruit and raisins. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead for 7-10 minutes or until smooth, adding flour if necessary.

Let the dough rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size. Knead again for two minutes, then form a loaf on a greased baking sheet. Let rise another 25 minutes.

Heat the oven to 350º. Bake the bread for 20-30 minutes or until it sounds hollow when tapped and is golden brown.