Merry Christmas Morning Sweet Bread ° Italian Baking

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house on Christmas morning. This Christmas Morning Sweet Bread combines soft, pillowy dough with the festive sweetness of candied fruits, dried apricots and a hint of fresh orange zest. It’s not just a bread—it’s a centerpiece for your holiday breakfast table, braided to perfection and baked with love.

Inspired by Italian traditions, this recipe is a tribute to the comforting flavors of Nonna’s kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at holiday bread for the first time, this recipe is as simple as it is rewarding. Gather your ingredients, warm your oven, and bake a bread that will bring joy, warmth, and a touch of nostalgia to your Christmas morning. Make it a holiday to remember!

INGREDIENTS:

For the Dough:

• Eggs: 2 for the dough, plus 1 for the final egg wash
• Milk: 1 cup
• Sunflower Oil: 3½ oz
• Sugar: 6 tbsp
• Yeast: 1 tsp
• Flour: 4½ cups

For the Filling:

• Mixed Candied Fruit: 1 cup
• Chopped Dried Apricots: 1 cup
• Zest of 1 orange

For Decorating:

• White Baker’s Chocolate
• Sprinkles
  
  

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, milk, sunflower oil, sugar, and yeast. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
   
   
2. Gradually add 4 cups of flour and stir with a spatula until the dough starts to come together.
   
   
3. Add the remaining ½ cup of flour and knead the dough by hand for 2–3 minutes—be sure to watch how Nonna works her magic!
   
   
4. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise until it doubles in size, about 1½ hours.
   
   
5. Once the dough has risen, divide it into 2 equal portions and stretch each into a large rectangular shape.
   
   
6. Evenly sprinkle each rectangle with candied fruit, chopped apricots, and orange zest. Roll each into a log.
   
   
7. Twist the two logs together to form a beautiful braid.
   
   
8. Place the braided dough on a greased baking sheet or inside a round baking mold.
   
   
9. Cover with plastic wrap and allow it to rise for another 30 minutes.
   
   
10. Brush the braid with egg wash for a glossy finish.
    
    
11. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
    
    
12. Let the bread cool completely before decorating with melted white baker’s chocolate and festive sprinkles.
    
    
13. Slice, serve, and enjoy this festive treat with your family. Mangia! 

Watch Nonna Make Christmas Morning Sweet Bread!

Tips to Enhance your Christmas Morning Sweet Bread Baking Experience!

1. Warm Ingredients for Better Rise
   Always use room-temperature eggs and milk (around 100–110°F). This helps activate the yeast more effectively, ensuring your dough rises beautifully.

2. Don’t Skip Kneading
   Kneading the dough for at least 2–3 minutes develops the gluten structure, giving the bread its soft, elastic texture. Nonna’s technique of hand-kneading is key to achieving the perfect dough!

3. Let the Dough Rest in a Warm Spot
   Yeast loves warmth! Cover your dough and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area to ensure it doubles in size.

4. Evenly Distribute the Filling
   When spreading the candied fruit, chopped apricots, and orange zest, make sure to distribute them evenly. This ensures every bite is filled with festive flavor.

5. Secure the Braid Ends
   When twisting the two rolled logs into a braid, pinch the ends tightly to keep the shape intact during baking. This prevents the braid from unraveling.

6. Don’t Overbake
   Keep an eye on the bread as it bakes. Once it’s golden brown on top, check for doneness by tapping the bottom—it should sound hollow. Overbaking can dry out this otherwise soft and fluffy bread.

Did you Know?

A Sweet Italian Tradition

Sweet braided breads like this one are deeply rooted in Italian culture, often made during festive seasons like Christmas and Easter. They symbolize abundance and joy, making them the perfect centerpiece for holiday celebrations.

Candied Fruit Has Historical Roots
Candied fruit, a key ingredient in this recipe, dates back to ancient times when fruit was preserved in honey to extend its shelf life. It became a luxurious ingredient during the Renaissance, used in celebratory baked goods like panettone and holiday breads.

Baking with Orange Zest Enhances Flavor
Orange zest isn’t just for decoration—it adds essential oils that enhance the bread's aroma and flavor. This citrusy touch is a classic element in Italian baking, offering a bright, refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bread and filling.

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