Christmas Noel Coffee Braid
A festive, sweet bread with a rich cinnamon and raisin filling, perfect for holiday gatherings. The soft, flavorful dough is infused with cinnamon and studded with raisins, creating a delightful treat that pairs well with coffee or tea. Ideal for sharing with family and friends during Christmas celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the yeast in warm water (110°F).
- Combine the milk, shortening, sugar, and salt in a saucepan and heat until the mixture is cooled to lukewarm.
- Add the softened yeast and beaten eggs to the mixture and beat well.
- Add the flour, sifted with cinnamon, and raisins to the mixture.
- Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
- Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough into a braid or loaf and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat milk. If you don't have raisins, chopped dried figs or cranberries can be excellent substitutes. Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise. Knead the dough thoroughly for a tender texture, and don't rush the rising time; this step is crucial for a fluffy braid.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Christmas Noel Coffee Braid warm, sliced, and perhaps with a side of butter or cream cheese for spreading. It pairs beautifully with brewed coffee or a spiced tea, making it a perfect breakfast or festive brunch item. For a delightful dessert, consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover coffee braid in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Noel Coffee Braid contains roughly 1034 calories, with 34g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (68% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value), and iron (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 951mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this braid ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator. In the morning, shape it and allow it to come to room temperature before baking. This saves time on busy mornings and still delivers fresh bread.
What can I use if I don't have active dry yeast?
You can substitute instant yeast in a 1:1 ratio. There's no need to dissolve it in water first; simply mix it directly into the dry ingredients. This can save time and still yield a great result.
How do I know when my braid is done baking?
The braid is done when it's golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a food thermometer; it should read around 190°F when fully baked. This ensures a perfectly cooked interior.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).