Description
A sweet, fragrant loaf perfect for holiday celebrations, blending warm spices, sweet fruits, and crunchy nuts.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet instant yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (like cranberries or raisins)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the instant yeast on top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes or until it becomes foamy.
- Once foamy, add the melted butter, eggs, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms with no dry patches.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Incorporate the dried fruits and chopped nuts into the dough by folding them in gently.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 60 minutes or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- After rising, punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased bread pan.
- Allow the dough to rise for another 30 minutes while the oven is preheating.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Check the yeast for freshness, ensure ingredients are at room temperature, and let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American