Larry'S Christmas Bread
Larry's Christmas Bread is a festive, flavorful braided bread filled with raisins, almonds, and candied cherries, perfect for holiday gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm water; let stand for 5 minutes.
- Combine warm milk, sugar, salt, and lemon rind in a bowl; mix well.
- Cut butter into flour with a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
- Add yeast mixture and beaten egg to the milk mixture; mix well.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough.
- Add raisins, chopped cherries, and chopped almonds to the dough.
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
- Divide the dough into 3 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a 20-inch-long rope.
- Place the ropes side by side on a greased baking sheet and braid them.
- Tuck the ends under to seal the braid.
- Cover and let rise for 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Brush the top of the bread with 1 beaten egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon water.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool the bread and then drizzle with glaze before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat. If you’re out of raisins, dried cranberries or chopped dates can serve as a great alternative. Ensure the water for the yeast is warm but not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. For a festive touch, add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
Larry's Christmas Bread is delightful served warm, slathered with butter or cream cheese. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of spiced tea or coffee. For a festive spread, consider serving it alongside holiday jams or spreads. This bread is also a wonderful addition to a brunch table, complementing dishes like American recipes or Biscuits From Scratch.
Storage & Reheating
Once completely cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the bread by wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer bag, where it will last for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Larry'S Christmas Bread contains roughly 306 calories, with 7g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value), protein (15% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 970mg per serving (42% 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 bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. After step 5, cover it and refrigerate overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature and rise before proceeding with the recipe. This method enhances the flavor and texture of the bread.
What can I use instead of candied cherries?
If you prefer not to use candied cherries, you can substitute with fresh or dried fruits like chopped apricots or figs. This will change the flavor profile slightly but will still create a delicious bread.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach around 190°F (88°C). If the top browns too quickly, tent it with foil.
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).