Christmas Bread

1. Preheat oven to 350˚F.
2. Prepare dried fruits. Pour dried fruits into a microwaveable container and cover with orange juice, apple cider or water. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and packet of cinnamon sugar. Microwave to melt the butter, about 1 minute on high. Stir and let it sit about 15-20 minutes allowing the fruits to plump. Strain and discard most of the liquid.
3. Dough Preparation. Empty yeast packet into the bowl of a stand mixer, add 1 cup lukewarm water 105°F (water temperature must not exceed 115°F) and let sit about 2 minutes. Add dough mix, strained fruit and chopped nuts to yeast/water mixture. Using dough hook, mix on low for 1 minute, then increase speed from low to medium low and continue to mix for an additional 4 minutes. Dough will be soft and slightly tacky. Place dough in a bowl coated with nonstick spray and cover with plastic wrap. Place bowl in a warm spot for 45 minutes.
4. Divide risen dough into 4 equal parts. Roll 3 parts into ropes 15” in length and place onto the sprayed baking sheet and braid. Divide remaining part into 3 parts and roll into 10” ropes and braid. Place smaller braid on top of larger braid. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise an additional 30 minutes.
5. Combine 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl and whisk to create an egg wash. Brush with egg wash and bake in a preheated oven for 40 minutes.

Optional: Sprinkle some powdered sugar and a few pecans across the top of the baked Christmas bread as desired.

*Feel free to substitute your favorite dried fruits or nuts.