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When the holiday season rolls around, kitchens everywhere fill with the warmth and aroma of delightful baked goods. One such treat that captures the magic of the season is the Light Golden Santa Breadnight. This whimsical bread, shaped like Santa himself, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the taste buds. Gather your ingredients, and let’s bring a little piece of holiday magic to your table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe brings joy to the baking process with its creative design and delicious outcome. The bread is soft and slightly sweet, making it perfect for both children and adults. It’s a fun project to tackle with family or friends, and the end result is a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table. Plus, the aroma of freshly baked bread will make your home feel extra cozy and festive.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl or stand mixer
- Glass measuring cup
- Microwave
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet
- Scissors or pizza cutter
- Wire rack
- Foil
Ingredients
- 3 and 1/2 cups bread flour, levelled with a spoon
- 1 tsp. salt + 1/2 tsp.
- 1/2 gallon milk
- A quarter cup of water
- 1/4 cup cubed butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp. yeast
- 2 eggs
- 2 oz. raisins
- Separate 2 egg yolks into 2 bowls
- Red food colouring
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine 2 cups of bread flour and salt in a mixing bowl or stand mixer.
- Heat the milk, water, and butter in a glass measuring cup in the microwave to 120°-130°F. Allow the butter to partially melt, then whisk until fully melted.
- Ensure the liquid is warm, not hot, before adding sugar and yeast. If the yeast is active, it will foam after about 5 minutes.
- Add the liquid to the dry ingredients and stir until moistened. Beat 2 eggs until smooth and mix them in. Gradually add the remaining flour until a sticky dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a dough hook.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area until doubled, about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Deflate the dough and divide it into two parts, one slightly larger. Shape the larger piece into an elongated triangle for Santa’s head and hat.
- Use the smaller dough portion to form Santa’s beard, moustache, nose, and other features. Cut and shape as desired.
- Position raisins for the eyes and use scissors to make slits for them.
- Whisk each egg yolk separately in small bowls; brush one yolk on areas not to be colored. Mix the other yolk with red food coloring and apply to Santa’s hat, nose, and cheeks.
- Cover with lightly greased foil and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the liquid mixture is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add a little more flour.
- Be gentle when shaping the dough to maintain the intricate details.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a sweeter bread, consider adding a tablespoon of honey to the dough mix.
- You can personalize Santa’s features with different nuts or dried fruits.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This festive bread is a source of carbohydrates and provides a delightful treat with around 150 calories per slice, depending on the size of the servings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare the dough in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator.
What if I don’t have a stand mixer? You can mix and knead the dough by hand; it may just take a little longer.
Conclusion
This Light Golden Santa Breadnight is sure to become a holiday favorite in your home. Its delightful appearance and scrumptious taste make it a perfect treat for family gatherings or festive parties. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us. Happy holidays!
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