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Quick Christmas Bread Recipe: Warm Spices & Dried Fruits Magic

A festive, spiced, fruit-filled Christmas bread that captures the warmth and aroma of the holidays—perfect for gifting, brunches, or cozy seasonal breakfasts.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 1 loaf
Course: Bread
Cuisine: Holiday
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 cup warm milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots or raisins
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional
  • 1/2 cup candied ginger optional
  • 1 tablespoon honey for glaze
  • 1 tablespoon water for glaze

Method
 

  1. Combine flour, sugar, salt, yeast, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in a large bowl.
  2. Whisk warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla in a separate bowl.
  3. Mix wet and dry ingredients to form dough, then knead 8–10 minutes until smooth.
  4. Fold in cranberries, apricots, and nuts if using.
  5. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and proof 1 hour until doubled.
  6. Punch down dough, shape into a loaf, and place in greased 9×5-inch pan.
  7. Proof 30–45 minutes until puffy.
  8. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes until golden.
  9. Mix honey and water; brush over hot bread for glossy finish.
  10. Cool 10 minutes in pan, then transfer to rack and cool fully before slicing.

Notes

Ensure warm milk is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast. Add candied ginger or nuts for extra holiday flavor.