Bread recipe for Christmas 

Ingredients:

• 300 grams all-purpose flour (2½ cups)
• 150 ml warm milk (⅔ cup)
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 50 grams sugar (¼ cup)
• 1 egg
• 50 grams unsalted butter, softened (¼ cup)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 100 grams dried cranberries (⅔ cup)
• 100 grams golden raisins (⅔ cup)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Directions:

Prepare the Yeast Mixture:

In a small bowl, mix 150 ml of warm milk with 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Make the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 300 grams of all-purpose flour, the remaining sugar, and salt.
2. Add the yeast mixture, 1 egg, and softened butter. Mix everything together until a soft dough forms.

 

Knead the Dough:

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

First Rise:

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling:

While the dough is rising, soak the dried cranberries and raisins in warm water for about 10 minutes to plump them up. Drain well and pat dry.

 

Shape the Bread:

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about ½ inch thick.

Sprinkle the cranberries and raisins evenly over the dough.

 

Roll the dough tightly from the long side, creating a log shape.

Twist the Dough:

Slice the dough log in half lengthwise, exposing the layers with fruit.

 

Gently twist the two pieces together, keeping the filling side facing up.

Shape the twisted dough into a ring and place it in a greased round baking pan, tucking the ends underneath to seal the ring.

Second Rise:

Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise again for about 30-40 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

 

Egg Wash and Bake:

Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the top of the dough for a shiny golden crust.

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

 

Cool and Serve:

Allow the bread to cool slightly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.