As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of freshly baked bread filled with festive flavors dances in the air. These delightful global breads not only satiate our taste buds but also bring a sense of togetherness to our celebrations. Here, we explore five wonderfully unique Christmas breads from around the world, perfect for sharing with family and friends during this joyous time.
1. Panettone
This iconic Italian bread is renowned for its dome shape and fluffy texture, filled with candied fruits and raisins. It’s often dusted with powdered sugar, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tsp dry yeast
- 1 cup lukewarm milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups mixed candied fruits
- 1 cup raisins
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until foamy.
- Mix in eggs, butter, and vanilla, then add the flour and salt. Knead until smooth.
- Fold in the candied fruits and raisins, and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it in a panettone mold.
- Let it rise again until doubled, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Stollen
This traditional German bread is bursting with lovely spices, dried fruits, and nuts. Often wrapped in marzipan, it evokes warmth and sweetness that perfectly fits the holiday spirit.
Ingredients:
- 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped mixed dried fruits
- 1 cup chopped nuts
- 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
Instructions:
- Mix the warm milk with yeast and let it sit until bubbly.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, spices, and mix in egg and butter.
- Add the yeast mixture and knead until elastic. Incorporate the dried fruits and nuts.
- Let the dough rise for about an hour in a warm place, then shape into a loaf.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, until it’s golden.
With these delightful breads, your holiday table is sure to be filled with the warmth and love that only freshly baked goods can bring. Let the festivities begin!