Oh, the joy of Christmas baking! There’s just something magical about filling your kitchen with the warm scents of sugar and spice during the holidays. One of my absolute favorite traditions is making this Christmas sweet loaf. It’s not just any loaf; it’s a delightful blend of sweet, fruity goodness that brings everyone together. I remember the first time I baked it with my grandmother, who always said that the secret ingredient is love—so true! This loaf is perfect for breakfast on Christmas morning or as a simple yet delicious dessert to share with family and friends. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked on its festive flavors and cozy vibes. Let’s get started on creating this holiday staple that’s sure to become a cherished part of your own traditions!

Ingredients List

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened (make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing!)
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup dried fruit (I love using a mix of raisins and cranberries for a festive touch!)

How to Prepare Instructions

Prepping the Ingredients

First things first, let’s get our ingredients ready! Start by taking your butter out of the fridge to let it soften at room temperature—this will make it easier to cream with the sugar. While that’s happening, measure out your dried fruit. I like to chop my cranberries a bit to make sure they distribute evenly throughout the loaf. Trust me, it makes a difference in every bite!

Mixing and Baking the Loaf

Once your butter is softened, grab a mixing bowl and cream together the butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes—don’t rush it! Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Now, stir in the milk and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Finally, fold in your prepared dried fruit—this is where the magic happens!

Now, pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and pop it in the oven, preheated to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 50-60 minutes, but keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. The anticipation will be worth it when you get to slice into this delicious holiday treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

So easy to whip up—perfect for novice bakers!
Festive flavors that capture the essence of the holidays.
Great for sharing at gatherings or as thoughtful gifts.
Deliciously moist and packed with fruity goodness in every slice.
Lovely aroma that fills your home with holiday cheer.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Christmas sweet loaf comes out perfectly every time, here are some of my best tips! First, make sure your butter is truly softened—this means it should be at room temperature, not melted. This helps create that lovely fluffy texture when creaming with sugar. Also, don’t skip the step of mixing the dry ingredients separately; it helps distribute the baking powder and salt evenly throughout the loaf.

Keep an eye on your baking time! Ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes early. When the toothpick comes out clean, it’s time to take it out! Lastly, letting the loaf cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack helps maintain its shape and avoids any sticky situations. Happy baking!

Variations

One of the best things about this Christmas sweet loaf is how easily it can be customized! If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for that extra crunch. You could also sprinkle in some warm spices—think cinnamon or nutmeg—to elevate those festive flavors even more. Want to switch up the fruit? Go for a mix of dried apricots and cherries for a delightful twist! Or, if you’re a citrus lover, adding some orange zest can brighten everything up beautifully. The options are endless, so get creative and make it your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your Christmas sweet loaf fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it longer, you can freeze it! Just wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’ll stay good for about 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, pop slices in the microwave for a few seconds or toast them lightly. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use in your Christmas sweet loaf. The information provided here is a general estimate per slice and may not be precise. Always check the labels on your ingredients for the most accurate information. Enjoy this delightful treat while being mindful of your dietary preferences!

FAQ Section

Can I substitute the dried fruit?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of raisins or cranberries, feel free to use dried apricots, cherries, or even a mix of your favorites. Just chop them up to ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the loaf.

What can I serve with the Christmas sweet loaf?
This loaf is delightful on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of butter. You could also enjoy it with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat!

Can I make this loaf ahead of time?
You bet! This loaf actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just bake it a day or two in advance, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that it might change the texture slightly, making it a bit denser, but it will still be delicious.

How do I know when the loaf is done?
The best way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, you’re good to go! If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

Christmas Sweet Loaf: 5 Secrets for the Perfect Bake

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delicious loaf perfect for Christmas celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup milk
2 eggs
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar.
Add eggs and mix well.
Stir in milk and vanilla extract.
In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture.
Fold in dried fruit.
Pour batter into a greased loaf pan.
Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool before slicing.

Notes

Store in an airtight container to keep fresh.
Try adding nuts for extra crunch.
Best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 210
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Christmas sweet loaf

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