Introduction
There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. The warmth, the comforting scent, and the promise of a soft, fluffy loaf that brings people together. When you add the sweet-tart flavors of cranberries and raisins, you’ve got a showstopper of a bread perfect for any festive occasion.
Whether you’re celebrating the holidays, preparing for a family gathering, or simply craving a delicious treat, this Festive Cranberry and Raisin Twist Bread is sure to impress. With a slight sweetness, a touch of tang from the cranberries, and the softest crumb, this bread is more than just a baked good—it’s a celebration in every bite.
In this blog, we’ll guide you step by step through the process of making this festive twist bread, complete with detailed tips and tricks to ensure a perfectly fluffy loaf every time.
Ingredients:
- 300 grams all-purpose flour (2½ cups)
- 150 ml warm milk (⅔ cup)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 50 grams sugar (¼ cup)
- 1 egg
- 50 grams unsalted butter, softened (¼ cup)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 100 grams dried cranberries (⅔ cup)
- 100 grams raisins (⅔ cup)
Why This Festive Cranberry and Raisin Twist Bread is Perfect for Any Occasion
Bread is often seen as a symbol of togetherness, nourishment, and warmth. This Festive Cranberry and Raisin Twist Bread takes that warmth and elevates it with the festive flavors of cranberries and raisins. The beauty of this bread lies not only in its taste but also in its versatility. The sweetness from the dried fruit balances perfectly with the richness of butter and the softness of the dough.
This bread isn’t just for the holidays—it’s a treat you can enjoy all year round, whether served alongside a cozy cup of tea, as a breakfast option, or as a side dish at a festive meal. The twist design makes it not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an ideal centerpiece for any gathering.
How to Make Festive Cranberry and Raisin Twist Bread: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
Start by preparing the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then sprinkle the yeast over the milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This is a crucial step to ensure the yeast is activated properly, which will give the bread its rise and soft texture.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture, and pour in the activated yeast mixture along with the egg. Begin mixing the ingredients with a wooden spoon or your hands until they start to come together.
Once the dough begins to form, add the softened butter and knead it into the dough. The butter will help to create a soft, rich texture in the finished bread. Knead the dough on a clean surface for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes manageable.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step is important to allow the yeast to work its magic and create the soft, airy texture we’re aiming for in this bread.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dried Fruit
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle, about 12 x 16 inches in size. Sprinkle the dried cranberries and raisins evenly over the dough. Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the long side, and pinch the seams to seal the roll.
Now, for the twist: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the dough down the center lengthwise, exposing the layers of fruit-filled dough inside. Twist both halves of the dough around each other, forming a beautiful braided twist. Pinch the ends to seal and tuck them under.
Step 5: Let the Dough Rise Again
Once you’ve formed the twist, place the dough onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has puffed up again. This second rise ensures that the bread will be light and fluffy once it’s baked.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen, brush the top of the bread with a little egg wash (a mixture of one egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water) for a golden finish. Place the bread into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Keep an eye on the bread as it bakes—if the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. The sweet, fruity aroma will fill your kitchen as it cools. Serve the bread warm, or store it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for longer, wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to 1 month.
Serving Suggestions:
This Festive Cranberry and Raisin Twist Bread is perfect for a variety of occasions, and you can enjoy it in many ways:
- As a Breakfast Delight: Serve slices of this bread with a spread of butter, jam, or cream cheese for a delightful breakfast or brunch option.
- As a Dessert: Drizzle some homemade vanilla glaze or icing over the warm bread for an extra touch of sweetness. The glaze will add a beautiful shine and make the bread even more festive.
- With a Hot Drink: This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa. The subtle sweetness and the chewy texture of the bread make it a perfect companion to your favorite warm beverage.
- As a Holiday Centerpiece: The festive twist design makes it an ideal addition to any holiday spread. Whether for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion, this bread will add both flavor and flair to your celebration.
Storage Tips:
This bread stays fresh for a few days when stored correctly. To keep it soft and moist, store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap. If you don’t finish the bread in time, you can freeze it. To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its fresh-baked texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Festive Flavor Combination: The cranberries and raisins create a sweet and tangy flavor that balances perfectly with the rich, buttery dough. It’s a flavor combination that will make you feel like celebrating.
- Soft and Fluffy Texture: The dough is light, airy, and soft, with just the right amount of chewiness. The second rise ensures that the bread is perfectly fluffy and not dense.
- Beautiful Twist Shape: Not only does the bread taste great, but its twist design is visually stunning. It’s a showstopper at any event.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, as a dessert, or as part of your holiday feast, this bread is versatile and can be enjoyed year-round.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering loaf of bread that’s perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion:
This Festive Cranberry and Raisin Twist Bread is the perfect addition to any gathering, holiday, or family meal. Its sweet, fruity flavors and soft, fluffy texture will make it a standout dish that everyone will enjoy. Plus, the braided twist shape makes it as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this bread is a comforting treat that brings the flavors of the season to your table. So, get baking, and let this festive bread add a little sweetness to your celebrations!
