Nothing brings warmth and comfort to the holiday season quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. This recipe for Scandinavian Christmas Fruit Bread is a delightful treat that captures the essence of a cozy winter day spent indoors with loved ones. Packed with a medley of dried fruits and nuts, this bread is perfect for festive gatherings, brunches, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea on a chilly afternoon. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a delicious loaf of Scandinavian-inspired goodness!
**Scandinavian Christmas Fruit Bread**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup warm milk
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/3 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, and apricots)
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1 beaten egg for egg wash
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, melted butter, salt, and egg. Mix well.
3. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until 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 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and knead in the mixed dried fruits, nuts, cardamom, cinnamon, and orange zest until well incorporated.
7. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. Brush the top of the loaf with the beaten egg for a shiny finish.
10. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.
11. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
12. Serve the Scandinavian Christmas Fruit Bread warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures with your favorite hot beverage or as a sweet ending to a holiday meal!
Capture the essence of Scandinavian holiday traditions with this delightful Christmas Fruit Bread recipe. The combination of aromatic spices, citrus zest, dried fruits, and nuts creates a rich tapestry of flavors that will warm your heart and soul this festive season. Whether you share it with friends and family or savor it on your own, this bread is a wonderful addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Embrace the spirit of togetherness and joy as you bake, share, and indulge in this Scandinavian-inspired treat.
