This sweet bread is inspired by Great American Family movie “A Dash of Christmas.” Character Megan (played by Laura Osnes) is given a baking lesson by Aaron (Christopher Russell) and they make this amazing looking Christmas bread that I just had to make! This festive recipe has all the flavors of Christmas you love! A bit reminiscent of a fruitcake (but better), this is a beautiful bread full of dried cranberries, cherries and golden raisins.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 stick cold, unsalted butter
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup of medley (golden raisins, dried cranberries, dried cherries)
- 1 cup pecans
- 1 tsp. Vanilla extract
- 1 tsp. Almond extract
- Lemon zest
- 2 eggs
In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients. In a separate small bowl, cut the cold butter, and with clean hands, incorporate it into the mix. Stir in ricotta cheese, then all other ingredients.
Gently knead dough on floured surface until it loses a bit of stickiness. Place on a silicone baking mat or non-stick baking sheet and create an oval shape. I like to lightly score the top with a pattern.
Bake at 325 degrees for 50 minutes until golden and fully baked in the center. Once cooled, top with powdered sugar!