Christmas Bread Recipe That Warms Every Holiday Morning

There’s something magical about the aroma of a warm Christmas bread recipe filling the kitchen—it always takes me back to Kyoto, to the delicate rhythm of my mother kneading dough as my grandmother hummed holiday songs. That same handwritten recipe, carried all the way to my California kitchen, continues to be a yearly ritual that blends generations. In this article, I’ll walk you through my favorite festive bread—one that’s tender, lightly spiced, and perfect for sharing. You’ll find easy ingredients, step-by-step instructions, beautiful serving tips, and nutritional guidance to help you celebrate the season deliciously and mindfully.

Ingredients – Essential for a Perfect Christmas Bread Recipe

Cozy, Comforting Ingredients for a Festive Loaf

The success of any Christmas bread recipe lies in its simplicity and seasonal warmth. Here are the ingredients I use every December, written with care just like my grandmother did.

Looking for another classic loaf? You might also enjoy my Amish Cinnamon Bread Recipe or Cranberry Walnut Bread Recipe—both equally warm and inviting for the season.

Instructions – How to Make This Christmas Bread Recipe Step-by-Step

From Dough to Delicious: A Simple Christmas Bread Journey

This Christmas bread recipe is one I return to every year—because it’s simple, smells amazing, and always comes out beautifully. Follow these easy steps, and your home will be filled with the aroma of cinnamon, love, and warm memories.

1. Activate the yeast
   In a small bowl, combine warm milk (about 110°F) with 1 tbsp of sugar and the active dry yeast. Let it rest for 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Mix the wet ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, melted butter, and remaining sugar until combined.
3. Combine and knead the dough
   Slowly add the yeast mixture into the wet ingredients.Slowly add the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and stretchy.
4. First rise
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Add the mix-ins
   Punch down the dough and knead in chopped walnuts and dried cranberries, if using, until well combined and evenly spread throughout.
6. Shape and rise again
   Form the dough into a loaf or braid. Place it in a greased loaf pan or on a parchment-lined tray. Cover and let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes.
7. Bake the bread
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Prepare the glaze
   As the bread cools, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth for a glaze Drizzle over the cooled bread.

This bread pairs wonderfully with morning coffee or a late-night cocoa. Try it alongside my Ocean Spray Cranberry Bread Recipe for a cozy holiday brunch or use it as a base for Christmas morning French toast like I’ve done with Libby’s Pumpkin Bread Recipe.

You might also want to explore other festive twists like Flourless Cottage Cheese Bread or Blueberry Fluffy Cottage Cheese Cloud Bread from Greaty Recipes for variety!

Serving – Festive Ways to Enjoy Your Christmas Bread Recipe

How to Serve Christmas Bread That Wows Everyone

A great Christmas bread recipe deserves to be more than just sliced—it should feel like a gift on the table. This bread is soft, lightly sweet, and laced with cranberries and spice, making it perfect for both casual mornings and dressed-up holiday dinners.

1. Classic and Warm
The simplest way? Serve warm in slices with butter or honey. It’s a favorite on Christmas morning with hojicha tea, a nod to my Japanese heritage.

2. Glazed and Gorgeous
Right before serving, drizzle with a light glaze of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. This adds sparkle and sweetness without overpowering the flavor. You can also dust it with a bit of extra cinnamon for a rustic, homemade look.

3. Brunch Board Star
This bread shines on a brunch spread. Add slices beside soft cheeses, fig jam, and fruit for a cozy breakfast board. For a savory contrast, try serving it with Spoon Bread to balance the flavors.

4. Toasted Holiday Treat
Lightly toast slices the next day and spread with orange marmalade or cinnamon butter. It crisps perfectly on the edges while staying soft inside. Bonus: the spice aroma comes alive again!

5. Gift It!
Wrap mini loaves in parchment and tie with twine. Share them with neighbors, teachers, or friends. I’ve even paired this bread with a jar of my favorite tea from Kyoto for a little “taste of home” care package.

For more holiday inspiration, I also love making Crawfish Bread on Christmas Eve—it brings a bold, savory bite to contrast the sweetness of this loaf.

If you’re in the mood for new bread adventures, the Sourdough Cottage Cheese Pancakes or Cottage Cheese Blueberry Cloud Bread on Greaty Recipes are creative twists to consider!

Nutrition – What’s Inside This Christmas Bread Recipe

Balanced, Festive, and Nourishing

Though it feels like an indulgence, this Christmas bread recipe is thoughtfully crafted to provide comfort without going overboard. It’s soft, spiced, and just sweet enough to feel like a treat—while offering nutritional elements that make it a balanced holiday option.

Here’s what one slice (1/10th of the loaf) typically contains:

Naturally Sweetened Warmth
The cranberries add natural tartness and sweetness, reducing the need for heavy sugar. You can also substitute some sugar with maple syrup or honey, or even use unsweetened applesauce to cut refined sugar without losing moisture.

Whole Grains for a Healthier Twist
Want a heartier option? Swap one cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients—perfect for those seeking balance during the rich holiday season.

Dairy-Free or Egg-Free Variations
If needed, plant-based butter and non-dairy milk work wonderfully.For an egg-free version, use a flaxseed mix (1 tablespoon flax meal with 2.5 tablespoons water) to keep the texture soft and fluffy.

Mindful Festivity
This bread isn’t overly rich, so you can enjoy it with other seasonal fare without feeling stuffed. I love to pair it with lighter bites like my Banana Bread Recipe Hawaii for a full but breezy brunch lineup.

You could also explore higher-protein versions like Flourless Cottage Cheese Bread for those focusing on macros during the holidays.

As my grandmother always said, “Good bread doesn’t just feed the body—it feeds the soul.” This recipe keeps that spirit alive.

FAQs – Christmas Bread Recipe & Panera Holiday Hours

Is Panera Bread open on Christmas Day?
No, Panera Bread locations are typically closed on Christmas Day to allow employees time with their families. Be sure to check with your local bakery-café for any updates in case of changes.

Is Panera Bread open on Christmas?
Generally, Panera is closed on December 25th. However, some locations may adjust hours near the holiday, so it’s best to call ahead if you’re planning a pre-holiday visit.

Is Panera Bread open on Christmas Eve?
Yes, most Panera Bread cafés are open on Christmas Eve but usually with shortened hours. Expect them to close earlier than usual, often around 4–6 PM depending on location.

Is Panera Bread open Christmas Day?
As mentioned earlier, Panera is not open on Christmas Day. If you’re craving their bread bowls or cinnamon crunch bagels, plan to grab them ahead of time.

Is Panera Bread open on Christmas Eve?
Yes, but arrive early! While many locations stay open on Christmas Eve, hours are reduced. Check online or call your store for local holiday hours.

Conclusion

A lovingly made Christmas bread recipe is more than a delicious bite—it’s a holiday tradition that warms hearts and ties generations together. From the handwritten pages of my grandmother’s recipe box in Kyoto to my cozy kitchen here in California, this festive loaf has traveled and evolved, but never lost its soul. Whether you’re baking it to serve at brunch, gift to friends, or simply to fill your home with that unmistakable cinnamon warmth, it’s a tradition worth keeping. I hope this becomes part of your celebration, just as it has become a part of mine.

Christmas Bread Recipe That Warms Every Holiday Morning

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• Author: Karino Kada
• Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
• Yield: 10 slices 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A soft, spiced Christmas bread recipe with cranberries, warm glaze, and nostalgic flavor. Perfect for gifting, brunch, or Christmas morning breakfast.

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Ingredients

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3 cups all-purpose flour

½ cup granulated sugar

2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

1 cup warm milk (110°F)

4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

2 large eggs

1½ tsp ground cinnamon

¼ tsp ground nutmeg

½ tsp salt

½ cup dried cranberries

½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)

2 tbsp milk (for glaze)

½ tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, 1 tbsp of sugar, and yeast. Let sit 10 minutes until foamy.

2. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, remaining sugar, and melted butter.

3. Add yeast mix to wet ingredients. Slowly add flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

4. Knead dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

5. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour.

6. Punch down and knead in cranberries and walnuts.

7. Shape dough into a loaf or braid. Let rise 30–45 minutes.

8. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding.

9. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for glaze.

10. Cool bread slightly, then drizzle with glaze and serve.

Notes

Swap one cup flour for whole wheat for more fiber.

Use non-dairy milk and butter for a dairy-free option.

Wrap cooled bread in parchment to give as edible gifts.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Holiday

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 11g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 35mg