Festive Cranberry and Raisin Twist Bread: A Delightful Holiday Treat
The Festive Cranberry and Raisin Twist Bread is the perfect blend of holiday cheer and delicious flavors, offering a delightful combination of sweet, tart cranberries and plump raisins. The soft, braided dough is lightly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, making it an ideal treat for holiday breakfasts or as a center piece at festive gatherings. The beautiful twist design is both visually stunning and easy to make. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare this irresistible bread that will surely impress your friends and family during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Method:
1. Prepare the Dough:
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top, and stir gently to dissolve. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready for use.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the yeast mixture, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a wooden spoon or dough hook to mix everything together until it forms a rough dough.
2. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer with a dough hook, you can knead the dough at medium speed for 6-7 minutes. Add small amounts of flour if the dough is too sticky.
Once kneaded, shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Filling:
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix the dried cranberries, raisins, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Set this aside for later use.
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