21 Irresistible Bread and Roll Recipes for the Perfect Christmas Dinner

Christmas dinner is a time for delicious food and cherished memories, and nothing complements a festive meal quite like freshly baked bread and rolls. From fluffy dinner rolls to aromatic herb loaves, our collection of 21 irresistible recipes will have the whole family reaching for seconds. Get ready to fill your kitchen with warmth and mouthwatering aromas as you create the perfect bread to elevate your holiday feast.

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Bread

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Bread

A loaf of cheesy spinach stuffed bread with melted cheese stretching from a slice.

This cheesy spinach stuffed bread is both comforting and delicious. The golden crust looks inviting, and the melted cheese stretching from the slice is pure bliss. It’s a perfect blend of flavors that makes any meal feel special.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of crusty bread (such as a baguette or a round sourdough)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spinach Filling
   In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, around 3-4 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. Mix the Cheeses
   In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and the cooked spinach mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is creamy.
3. Prepare the Bread
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   Take the loaf of bread and cut it in half horizontally. Scoop out some of the interior bread to create a well for the filling (you can save the scooped bread for another use, like breadcrumbs). Place the hollowed bread halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Fill the Bread
   Evenly spread the cheesy spinach mixture into the hollowed-out sections of the bread. Be sure to fill it generously so every bite is packed with cheesy goodness.
5. Top and Bake
   Brush the top edges of the bread with the melted butter and sprinkle with dried Italian herbs if desired. This will help give the crust a nice flavor and color.
   Place the filled bread halves in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden brown.
6. Serve
   Once baked, let the bread cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy the satisfying cheese stretch as you pull each slice! This stuffed bread is a great side dish for dinner or a perfect appetizer for a gathering.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Bread is under 250 calories if made with reduced-fat cheese and light cream cheese. The spinach adds a boost of nutrients, while the cheese gives a comforting, satisfying taste. This dish is an excellent way to incorporate greens into a meal without compromising on flavor.

Tips for Variation

• Bread Choice: Use any type of crusty bread you like, from a baguette to a round sourdough loaf.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Make It Spicy: For those who enjoy a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach mixture before filling the bread.

Next time you’re planning a family dinner, think about adding this cheesy spinach stuffed bread. It’s sure to impress and keep everyone coming back for more!

Don’t Feel Like Cooking? Here Are Some Ready To Go Alternatives…

Classic Brioche Rolls

Classic Brioche Rolls

Stack of golden brown brioche rolls garnished with rosemary on a wooden platter.

These classic brioche rolls are a true delight. Soft, fluffy, and golden-brown, they can elevate any meal. Whether served warm with butter or as a side at dinner, they are sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/4 cup warm milk
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast
   In a small bowl, combine the warm milk (about 110°F) and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic.
2. Make the Dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Mix until the ingredients start to come together. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment on low speed for about 5-7 minutes, or knead by hand until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Shape the Rolls
   Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Place the dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each roll to allow for expansion.
5. Second Rise
   Cover the rolls lightly with plastic wrap or a towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
6. Bake
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water) to give them that classic golden-brown finish. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the rolls are golden and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Garnish and Serve
   Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh rosemary for an aromatic touch. Serve the brioche rolls warm with butter or alongside your favorite main dishes.

Nutritional Information

Each Classic Brioche Roll is approximately 220 calories, making them a delightful yet low-calorie addition to any meal. The eggs and butter provide richness, while the fluffy texture makes them perfect for soaking up sauces or pairing with a spread.

Tips for Variation

• Add Herbs: For extra flavor, mix finely chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough before the first rise.
• Sweet Variation: If you’re looking for a sweeter roll, try adding 2 tablespoons of honey to the dough. These rolls can also be topped with a sprinkle of sugar before baking for a slightly sweet crust.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise in the refrigerator overnight, and then shape and bake the next day.

Next time you’re planning dinner, think about adding these buttery dinner rolls to your menu. They pair well with any main dish and are a great way to impress guests while keeping things simple. Enjoy their soft, fluffy texture and delightful golden crust!

Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread

Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread

Garlic herb pull-apart bread on a wooden board, sliced to reveal a soft interior and garnished with herbs.

This Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread is a showstopper for any meal. The golden crust glistens with a hint of garlic butter, inviting you to break it apart and enjoy its soft, fluffy interior.

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water (around 110°F)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough
   In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead and Let the Dough Rise
   Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter
   While the dough is rising, prepare the garlic herb butter. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, and oregano. Set aside.
4. Shape the Bread
   Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle, roughly 1/2-inch thick. Brush the entire surface generously with the garlic herb butter. Cut the dough into strips (about 2 inches wide) and then stack the strips. Cut the stacked strips into smaller sections and place them upright in a greased loaf pan.
5. Second Rise
   Cover the loaf pan with a damp cloth and let the dough rise again for 30 minutes.
6. Bake
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
7. Serve
   Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a serving board. Garnish with a bit more fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Garlic Herb Pull-Apart Bread is under 250 calories, making it a comforting yet reasonable side dish. The use of fresh herbs and a moderate amount of butter ensures the bread is flavorful without being overly heavy.

Tips for Variation

• Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top of the garlic butter before stacking the dough for an extra cheesy pull-apart bread.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to use other herbs like rosemary or basil to customize the flavors to your preference.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy twist.

Perfect Pairings

This bread is perfect as a side for dinner and pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or pasta dishes. Enjoy it warm from the oven, with its soft interior and buttery garlic flavor, for the best experience!

Try this recipe out next time you’re serving a meal. Your guests will love tearing apart the warm, fragrant bread. Enjoy it fresh from the oven for the best experience!

Cranberry Orange Dinner Rolls

These Cranberry Orange Dinner Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic buttery dinner rolls. They offer a soft, fluffy texture that is hard to resist. The golden tops look inviting, making them perfect for any dinner table.

In the image, you can see a beautiful pan of rolls, lightly sprinkled with sesame seeds. The warm, glossy finish suggests that they’re fresh out of the oven. The bright red cranberries and green leaves nearby add a festive touch, making these rolls great for holiday gatherings.

This sweet roll recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with a hint of orange zest, creating a unique flavor that pairs well with savory dishes. Whether served as a dinner side or enjoyed on their own, they are sure to impress.

If you’re looking to whip up some homemade yeast rolls, this recipe is simple. Gather ingredients like flour, yeast, sugar, butter, and your cranberry-orange mixture. Knead, let them rise, and bake until golden. Enjoy these rolls warm with a pat of butter, or serve them alongside your favorite main dish.

Honey Glazed Sweet Potato Rolls

These Honey Glazed Sweet Potato Rolls are a delightful treat you can’t resist. They sit beautifully on a festive plate, topped with a shiny glaze that looks so inviting. The vibrant orange of the sweet potatoes shines through, making them not just delicious but also eye-catching.

Perfect for the holidays, these rolls bring a touch of sweetness to any dinner table. Imagine them alongside your favorite dishes, adding a cozy feel to your meal. They pair wonderfully with roasted meats or can even stand alone as a sweet snack.

Making these rolls is easier than you think. Start with some basic ingredients like sweet potatoes, flour, and yeast. Mix them together, let the dough rise, and then shape into rolls. After baking, drizzle with honey for that perfect glaze. It’s a simple recipe that can impress your guests!

These rolls can be part of many occasions. Whether you’re preparing a family feast or just enjoying a quiet evening, they’re sure to bring comfort. They can be included in your collection of homemade bread recipes easy and are a great addition to any dinner rolls recipe.

So, next time you want to try something new, give these Honey Glazed Sweet Potato Rolls a shot. They are a tasty, soft bread recipe that everyone will love!

Rosemary Focaccia with Sea Salt

This rosemary focaccia is a beautiful sight, bursting with flavor and texture. The golden-brown crust is adorned with sea salt, giving it that perfect crunch. The fresh rosemary sprigs add a pop of color and a fragrant aroma, making it irresistible.

This bread is soft and fluffy, perfectly complementing any meal. Whether you serve it as a dinner side or enjoy it on its own, it’s a delightful addition to your table. You can even use it to make sandwiches or dip it in olive oil for a simple treat.

Making this focaccia at home is easy. You only need a few ingredients like flour, yeast, olive oil, and of course, fresh rosemary. With a bit of time and love, you can whip up this homemade bread that rivals any bakery offering.

For those who enjoy experimenting with flavors, consider adding garlic for a twist. Garlic bread rolls are always a hit! You can also try different toppings to create your perfect blend. This focaccia is not just a treat; it’s a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Pumpkin Sage Biscuits

These Pumpkin Sage Biscuits are a delightful treat perfect for any gathering. Their warm, golden hue hints at the pumpkin goodness inside, making them a seasonal favorite.

On the plate, you can see the fluffy biscuits, each one perfectly baked with a slightly cracked top. They look soft and inviting, ready to be enjoyed with a pat of butter.

The addition of sage not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely aroma that fills the kitchen while they bake. Imagine biting into one, the buttery taste mixing harmoniously with the savory herbs.

Pair these biscuits with a warm bowl of soup or serve them alongside your favorite homemade rolls. They complement a hearty meal and make an excellent dinner side.

With the right balance of pumpkin and sage, this recipe is a great way to embrace fall flavors, and they might just become a staple in your homemade bread recipes.

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Maple Bacon Cornbread Muffins

These Maple Bacon Cornbread Muffins are a delightful twist on traditional cornbread. They combine sweet maple syrup with savory bits of crispy bacon, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Each muffin has a golden, fluffy texture and is dotted with pieces of bacon, making them irresistible.

Perfect for a dinner side, these muffins can accompany a variety of dishes. They work well alongside soups or stews, adding a unique sweetness that enhances any meal. If you’re looking for a homemade bread easy to whip up, this recipe fits the bill.

To make these muffins, you’ll need cornmeal, flour, baking powder, eggs, milk, maple syrup, and, of course, bacon. The steps are simple: mix the dry ingredients, combine them with wet ingredients, and fold in crispy bacon pieces. Bake until golden, and enjoy a warm, comforting treat!

These muffins are not just tasty but can also be a fun addition to brunch or breakfast. Imagine serving these alongside some homemade yeast rolls or fluffy dinner rolls. They pair wonderfully with a sweet roll recipe or even Hawaiian sweet rolls for a delightful spread.

Pecan Pie Sweet Rolls

These Pecan Pie Sweet Rolls look like a warm hug on a plate! Each roll is soft and fluffy, drizzled with a creamy glaze and topped with crunchy pecans. The combination of sweet and nutty flavors makes them a delightful treat for any occasion.

Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet side during dinner, these rolls can easily become a family favorite. If you’re looking for a sweet roll recipe that’s both comforting and satisfying, this is it!

Making these rolls is straightforward. Start by preparing a homemade yeast roll dough. Once the dough rises, roll it out and fill it with a mixture of brown sugar, butter, and chopped pecans. After baking, they emerge golden and aromatic, ready to be drizzled with a simple icing.

Serve them warm, and watch how quickly they disappear! Pair these sweet rolls with a cup of coffee or tea, and you have yourself a cozy moment. They fit perfectly into a holiday feast or a simple family brunch.

Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread

Cheddar jalapeño cornbread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Just look at that golden crust and cheesy goodness! The cornbread is studded with fresh jalapeños, giving it a nice kick that pairs perfectly with the rich cheddar.

If you’re hosting a dinner or looking for the perfect side, this cornbread shines. It’s great alongside some homemade rolls or even as a standalone snack. The vibrant green of the jalapeños on top adds a pop of color, making it as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need ingredients like cornmeal, cheddar cheese, and of course, jalapeños. It’s simple and quick, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.

Traditional Italian Panettone

Panettone is a beloved Italian treat, especially during the festive season. This image captures a beautifully shaped panettone, showcasing its unique, tall structure and intricate design. The dusting of powdered sugar adds a festive touch, making it even more tempting.

This sweet bread is typically filled with candied fruits and raisins, bringing a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. Making panettone at home can be a delightful experience. You start with a soft bread recipe, allowing the dough to rise properly for that fluffy texture.

While it may look complex, the process of creating this homemade treat is rewarding. You may find it similar to making other types of homemade rolls, like fluffy dinner rolls or sweet dinner rolls, where patience is key. Each slice reveals a soft, airy interior, perfect for sharing with family and friends during special gatherings.

If you’re in the mood for baking, consider trying a sweet roll recipe or even experimenting with flavors from Hawaiian sweet rolls recipe. Every bite of panettone brings a taste of Italy right to your table, making it a delightful addition for any occasion!

Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Bites

These Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Bites are a delightful treat that combines the goodness of spinach with the creamy texture of feta cheese. Each bite-sized pastry is golden brown and flaky, making them perfect for any gathering.

The presentation is simply inviting, with the vibrant green spinach peeking out from the edges. It’s hard to resist grabbing one, especially with that tempting dip of marinara nearby. These bites are not just tasty; they make a stunning appetizer for parties or a cozy night in.

To make these treats, you’ll need fresh spinach, feta cheese, and puff pastry. Just sauté the spinach, mix it with the crumbled feta, and wrap them in the pastry. Bake until they’re crispy and golden. Serve them warm for the best experience!

For a complete meal, pair these with some homemade garlic bread rolls or buttery dinner rolls. They complement each other well and create a comforting dinner side that everyone will love. Enjoy your time in the kitchen, and make these delicious bites part of your next gathering!

Chocolate Chip Brioche Knots

These Chocolate Chip Brioche Knots are a sweet treat that’s sure to impress. With their soft, fluffy texture and rich chocolate flavor, they make a delightful snack or dessert. The shiny chocolate drizzle adds an extra layer of indulgence, making them visually appealing and tempting.

Making these knots at home is easier than it looks. You’ll need basic ingredients like flour, sugar, yeast, and plenty of chocolate chips. The dough is simple to prepare, and the process of knotting adds a fun twist to your baking routine.

Serve them warm, and watch as they disappear in no time. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, or can stand alone as a special treat. If you’re looking for a sweet roll recipe that’s simple yet impressive, these brioche knots are a perfect choice!

Herbed Potato Bread

Herbed potato bread is a delightful twist on the classic loaf. The golden crust and fluffy interior promise a satisfying bite. Infused with aromatic herbs, this bread not only looks appetizing but also brings a burst of flavor to your meals.

To make this bread, start with simple ingredients: potatoes, flour, yeast, water, and your favorite herbs. Boil and mash the potatoes before mixing them with the flour and yeast. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and let it rise until doubled in size. This process helps achieve that soft texture we all love.

After baking, the aroma that fills your kitchen is irresistible. Serve this bread warm, perhaps with a side of garlic butter dinner rolls or alongside a hearty soup. It complements any dinner setting beautifully, making it a perfect addition to your dinner rolls recipe collection.

If you’re looking for something easy yet impressive, this herbed potato bread ticks all the boxes. It’s a great way to elevate your homemade bread game without the fuss. Plus, each slice is under 250 calories, so you can enjoy it guilt-free!

Honey Wheat Dinner Rolls

These honey wheat dinner rolls are a delightful addition to any meal. Soft and fluffy, they invite you to take a bite. The golden-brown tops and slight sheen suggest a perfect bake, making them irresistible. Plated beautifully, they look ready to accompany a festive dinner or a cozy family meal.

The warm, inviting scene of the rolls against a backdrop of festive decorations adds a touch of charm. Imagine these as a dinner side, adding flavor and comfort to your table. They not only pair well with main dishes but can also be enjoyed with a bit of butter or honey.

To make these homemade dinner rolls, you’ll need simple ingredients like flour, yeast, honey, and warm water. Kneading the dough creates that fluffy texture we all love. After letting them rise, bake until golden, and soon you’ll have a batch that rivals even the famous Texas Roadhouse Rolls!

Sourdough Boule with Cranberries

This sourdough boule with cranberries is a delightful addition to any meal. The crust is golden brown and slightly crispy, while the inside is soft and airy.

The cranberries add a lovely pop of flavor, making this bread perfect for various occasions. Whether enjoyed as a side with dinner or used for sandwiches, it offers something unique.

For those who love baking, trying your hand at homemade bread recipes easy like this one is rewarding. Pair it with homemade garlic butter dinner rolls or serve it alongside a hearty soup.

To make this bread, you’ll need basic ingredients like flour, water, salt, and cranberries. It’s a simple process that yields impressive results.

This sourdough boule stands out on any table, especially with a bit of butter spread on top. It’s a great way to impress guests without much fuss.

Savory Herb and Garlic Knots

These savory herb and garlic knots are a delightful treat that makes any meal special. The warm, golden-brown rolls are perfectly fluffy, making them a great addition to dinner. Topped with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of seasoning, they look as good as they taste.

Imagine pulling apart one of these homemade rolls, the steam escaping as you reveal the soft, pillowy inside. Each bite bursts with the rich flavor of garlic and herbs. It’s easy to see why they’d be a hit alongside dishes like Texas Roadhouse Rolls or buttery dinner rolls.

If you’re a fan of homemade bread recipes easy to follow, these knots are for you. The dough is simple to make, and you can customize it with your favorite herbs. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some cheese for an even more indulgent twist.

Perfect for gatherings, these rolls can complement any meal. Serve them as a side with pasta, alongside a hearty soup, or as a snack with dips. They are like buttery dinner rolls with a garlic twist.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your friends and family with these stunning garlic bread rolls. They’re not just tasty; they also add a beautiful touch to your dinner table.

Almond Flour Dinner Rolls

These almond flour dinner rolls are a delightful, gluten-free option for your meals. They’re soft, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion. You can enjoy them alongside a hearty stew or even as a light snack.

The rolls in the image look inviting, with their golden tops and soft texture. They’re a great alternative to traditional bread, especially for those watching their carb intake. Plus, they come in at under 250 calories each!

To make these rolls, you’ll need almond flour, yeast, warm water, and a touch of honey for sweetness. Simply mix your ingredients, let the dough rise, and then bake until golden. They pair wonderfully with garlic butter or even a sweet jam, just like in the picture!

These dinner rolls can be a fantastic side dish for your favorite meals. They are also a wonderful base for sliders or mini sandwiches. Whether you’re making homemade Hawaiian rolls or just need a tasty accompaniment to your dinner, these rolls will surely impress.

Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Rolls

These Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Rolls are a delightful treat that combines soft, fluffy bread with rich flavors. The rolls are filled with sweet, caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese, making them perfect for any meal.

In the image, you can see the golden-brown rolls sitting on a wooden platter, with some cheese slices laid out beside them. The texture looks inviting, and you can almost imagine the aroma wafting through the air. These rolls are great as a dinner side or even on their own as a snack.

Making these rolls at home is easy, especially if you have some homemade bread recipes easy at hand. You can start with a soft bread recipe, letting the dough rise until it’s fluffy. Then, sauté onions until they’re golden and sweet. Add the Gruyère cheese, roll it all up, and bake until golden. It’s a simple sweet roll recipe that delivers big on taste!

Serve these warm for the ultimate experience. Whether you pair them with a hearty soup or enjoy them on their own, these rolls are sure to impress. They are a fantastic option for gatherings or family dinners, leaving everyone wanting more!

Lemon Thyme Biscuits

Lemon thyme biscuits are a delightful twist on the classic biscuit. The bright notes of lemon paired with the earthy aroma of thyme create a unique flavor that makes these biscuits stand out at any meal.

In the image, you’ll see beautifully baked biscuits, golden and fluffy, sitting on a wooden platter. The fresh lemons and sprigs of thyme nearby hint at the refreshing ingredients that enhance their taste.

These biscuits are perfect as a dinner side, complementing everything from savory dishes to light salads. Light and airy, they are an excellent alternative to heavier options like buttery dinner rolls.

To whip up a batch, you’ll need simple ingredients like flour, baking powder, butter, and of course, fresh lemon juice and thyme. The preparation is quick, making them a fantastic addition to any meal.

Can Cheesy Sides Pair Well with Bread and Rolls for the Perfect Christmas Dinner?

Cheesy christmas sides can elevate your festive feast to new heights, pairing wonderfully with fresh bread and fluffy rolls. Imagine gooey, golden-baked cheeses melting perfectly with warm, crusty textures, creating a symphony of flavors. This indulgent combination adds warmth and richness, making your holiday dinner table truly unforgettable for family and friends.

Christmas Stollen with Marzipan

Christmas Stollen with Marzipan

A beautifully dusted Christmas Stollen loaf with dried fruits and a slice cut out, set against a festive backdrop.

Christmas Stollen is a festive treat that brings warmth and cheer to holiday gatherings. This delightful loaf is packed with fruits, nuts, and a touch of marzipan, making it a true holiday favorite.

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, and chopped apricots)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
• 7 ounces marzipan
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, salt, nutmeg, cardamom, and active dry yeast. Mix the warm milk, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract into the dry ingredients. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
2. Knead and First Rise
   Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook for about 5 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
3. Incorporate the Fruits and Nuts
   After the first rise, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Knead in the dried fruits and chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
4. Add the Marzipan and Shape the Stollen
   Roll the dough into a rectangle about 9×13 inches. Roll the marzipan into a log about 9 inches long, and place it in the center of the dough. Fold one side of the dough over the marzipan, then fold the other side over, overlapping slightly. Press down gently to seal.
5. Second Rise and Bake
   Place the shaped Stollen on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough rises. Bake the Stollen for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
6. Dust with Powdered Sugar
   Allow the Stollen to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes, then generously dust it with powdered sugar while still warm. The powdered sugar creates a snowy finish, perfect for the holiday season.

Nutritional Information

Each slice of Christmas Stollen is under 250 calories, making it a lighter yet festive treat. The marzipan provides a rich almond flavor, while the dried fruits add natural sweetness, making this loaf a delightful holiday indulgence.

Tips for Serving and Variations

• Serving Suggestions: Christmas Stollen pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea, coffee, or even mulled wine. It’s a lovely addition to any Christmas breakfast or brunch.
• Fruit Options: Feel free to use your favorite combination of dried fruits, such as sultanas, currants, or dried cherries, for different flavor profiles.
• Storage: Stollen tastes even better after resting for a day or two. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. Dust with additional powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Making your own Stollen can be a rewarding experience. The aroma that fills your kitchen will make everyone eager to taste this homemade delight. So gather your ingredients and get ready to create a delicious Christmas treat that your family will cherish!