When it comes to holiday baking, there’s something truly special about the cozy aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home with warmth and cheer. This Swedish Christmas baking tradition embodies the essence of the holiday season with its rich flavors and festive spirit. Today, we’re excited to share with you a delightful recipe for Julbröd Christmas Bread. This delightful bread is packed with a delightful combination of spices, dried fruits, and nuts that will transport your taste buds straight to a winter wonderland. Perfect for serving at breakfast or as a festive snack, this bread will surely become a beloved tradition in your home during the holiday season.
Title: Julbröd Christmas Bread
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup candied orange peel, chopped
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Sliced almonds and pearl sugar for topping
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the milk over low heat until it is warm but not boiling. Remove from heat and add the butter, stirring until melted. Let the mixture cool slightly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and yeast. Pour the warm milk and butter mixture over the sugar and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until the yeast is frothy.
3. Add the salt, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and half of the flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Punch down the dough and knead in the chopped almonds, raisins, apricots, and candied orange peel until evenly distributed.
8. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
9. Brush the top of the loaf with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with sliced almonds and pearl sugar.
10. Bake the Julbröd Christmas Bread for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
11. Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy this festive treat with a cup of hot cocoa or a steaming mug of spiced tea for the ultimate holiday indulgence.
Let the sweet and spicy aromas of Julbröd Christmas Bread fill your home with holiday magic this season. This delightful bread is sure to become a cherished part of your Christmas traditions, bringing joy and warmth to all who gather around your table. Happy baking and happy holidays!
