Ma'S Christmas Bread
Ma'S Christmas Bread is a moist, fruit-filled loaf with nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat during festive seasons.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Add chopped fruit and nuts to the flour mixture and stir to combine.
- Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and then mix with milk and melted butter.
- Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture, stirring just enough to moisten the dry ingredients.
- Pour the batter into a well-greased loaf pan and let stand for 30 minutes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can substitute the chopped fruit with dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added sweetness. If you're looking for a healthier option, reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup and replace half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. Ensure you don’t overmix the batter to keep the bread fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful bread is perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve alongside a refreshing Lemon Lime Salad to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bread 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 3 months. To reheat, simply toast slices in a toaster or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ma'S Christmas Bread contains roughly 600 calories, with 5g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1224mg per serving (53% 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 use different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts and pecans are great choices, feel free to experiment with almonds or hazelnuts for a unique flavor. Just ensure they are chopped to a similar size to maintain even distribution in the bread.
What kind of fruit works best in Ma's Christmas Bread?
Chopped fruits like apples, pears, or mixed dried fruits work wonderfully in this bread. You can also use fresh berries for a burst of flavor. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the tartness of the fruit you choose.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by replacing the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg) and using plant-based milk and butter alternatives. The results will still be delicious!
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).