Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my favorite holiday tradition: making this savory Christmas Wreath Bread! Every year, as the festive season rolls around, I can’t help but whip up this gorgeous bread that never fails to impress my family and friends. It’s not just about the taste (though trust me, it’s amazing!), but the way it looks on the table—a stunning centerpiece that instantly elevates any gathering.
Picture this: a warm, golden-brown wreath, filled with melted cheese, fragrant herbs, and bits of sun-dried tomatoes that burst with flavor. The aroma that fills my kitchen while it’s baking is pure magic! I remember the first time I made it for a holiday party; everyone was raving about the taste, and I felt like a superstar chef! It’s a recipe that brings people together, and I can assure you that whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a cozy winter night, this bread is a hit. So let’s dive into this delightful recipe and make some memories together!
Ingredients for Christmas Wreath Bread
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped herbs (such as rosemary and thyme)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
How to Prepare Christmas Wreath Bread
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
First things first, let’s get that yeast bubbling! In a bowl, combine the warm water and the packet of active dry yeast. Give it a little stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes. You should see it start to froth up a bit—that’s how you know it’s ready to work its magic!
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Once the yeast has activated, add in the flour, salt, sugar, and olive oil. Mix it all together until a dough begins to form. I love using a wooden spoon for this part because it makes me feel like a true baker!
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Next, we’re going to knead the dough. Dust your countertop with a little flour and turn the dough out onto it. Knead it for about 10 minutes, folding and pressing until it’s nice and smooth. It’s like giving your dough a little massage—so satisfying!
Step 4: First Rise
Once your dough is smooth, place it in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Set it in a warm spot and let it rise for about 1 hour. This is the perfect time to sip on some hot cocoa while the magic happens!
Step 5: Incorporate Fillings
After an hour, it’s time to punch down the dough—don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds! Just give it a firm press to release the air. Now, add in your shredded cheese, chopped herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes. Mix it all in until everything is nicely incorporated. Oh, the aromas already starting to come together are heavenly!
Step 6: Shape the Wreath
Now for the fun part! Shape the dough into a wreath on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can twist it a bit to give it a lovely look. Just make sure to pinch the ends together so it doesn’t fall apart while baking!
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the shaped wreath again with your kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This will give it that beautiful, fluffy texture we all love.
Step 8: Bake the Bread
Finally, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the wreath for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s a gorgeous golden brown. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing! To check for doneness, tap the bottom of the bread—it should sound hollow. Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You’re going to love this moment when you get to share it with your loved ones!
Tips for Success with Christmas Wreath Bread
Now that you’re all set to make this beautiful bread, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Christmas Wreath Bread turns out perfectly every time!
- Use fresh herbs: Trust me, using fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme really elevates the flavor. Dried herbs just can’t compete with the vibrant taste of fresh ones!
- Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to mix things up with different types of cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta can add delightful variations. I love using a blend for an extra cheesy surprise!
- Don’t rush the rise: Allowing your dough to rise properly is key to achieving that fluffy texture. It might be tempting to skip this step, but patience is the secret ingredient!
- Adjust the baking time: Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. If it’s not quite golden brown after 30 minutes, give it a few more minutes. You want that perfect crust!
- Make ahead: If you’re hosting, this bread can be made a day ahead! Just cool it completely, wrap it in plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. Reheat it before serving for that fresh-baked taste.
- Serve it warm: There’s nothing quite like warm bread fresh out of the oven. Try serving it with a side of olive oil or a herbed butter for dipping. Your guests will love it!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be ready to impress everyone at your holiday gatherings. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the numbers behind this delicious Christmas Wreath Bread! For each slice, you can expect the following estimated nutritional values:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Sugar: 1g
These values can vary a bit depending on the ingredients you choose, especially when it comes to the cheese. Regardless, this savory bread packs a flavorful punch while still being a nice addition to your holiday table! Enjoy every bite without a hint of guilt!
FAQ About Christmas Wreath Bread
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Christmas Wreath Bread is perfect for making a day in advance. Just bake it, let it cool completely, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it. When the time comes, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. It’ll taste like it just came out of the oven—so delicious!
What types of cheese work best?
Oh, you can get really creative with cheese! I usually love using a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for that gooey, melty goodness. But don’t stop there—try incorporating some feta for a tangy twist or even a bit of gouda for a smokier flavor. The combinations are endless, and each one brings its own unique flair to the bread!
Can I freeze the bread?
Yes, you can definitely freeze this bread! Just make sure it’s fully cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it in the oven. You’ll be amazed at how fresh it tastes—perfect for those busy holiday weekends!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Christmas Wreath Bread is not just a treat for the eyes; it’s a delightful addition to any festive gathering! Here’s why you’ll adore making it:
- Quick to prepare: With just a little bit of hands-on time and some rising, you can have this gorgeous bread ready in about 1.5 hours. Perfect for those busy holiday schedules!
- Incredibly flavorful: The combination of melted cheese, fresh herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes creates a mouthwatering taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Beautiful presentation: The wreath shape makes it a stunning centerpiece on your holiday table, sure to impress your guests and spark conversations.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this bread with different cheeses or fillings to suit your taste, making it perfect for any gathering.
- Great for sharing: This bread is perfect for breaking apart and sharing—bring it along to parties or serve it at family gatherings, and watch it disappear!
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it, which makes hosting so much easier!
Trust me, once you make this savory Christmas Wreath Bread, it’ll become a holiday favorite that you’ll look forward to making every year. Happy baking!
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Savory Christmas Wreath Bread That Will Wow Your Guests
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 wreath 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A savory Christmas wreath bread perfect for festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped herbs (such as rosemary and thyme)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Add flour, salt, sugar, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and mix in cheese, herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Shape the dough into a wreath on a baking sheet.
- Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for better flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses.
- This bread can be made a day ahead and reheated.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Christmas Wreath Bread, savory bread, festive bread, holiday baking